World Ocean Day: Celebrating Our Ocean's Heritage and Preserving its Future

The world's oceans cover over 70% of our planet's surface and play a crucial role in sustaining life on Earth. In recognition of the vital importance of these vast bodies of water, World Ocean Day is celebrated on June 8th each year. This special day serves as a reminder of the history, significance, and urgent need to protect and conserve our oceans. Let's explore the rich heritage of World Ocean Day, its profound significance, and how we can all contribute to its celebration.

Ocean Wise Partnership:

Premier Catch is a proud partner with Ocean Wise, a Canadian-based non-profit organization that focuses on sustainable seafood production and ocean preservation. Ocean Wise seeks to teach and empower customers to make educated choices about the seafood they eat by educating them about the effects of overfishing and habitat damage.

With over 800 partners (including us!) Ocean Wise is making a big impact by providing consumers with information on which seafood species are sustainable and which are in danger of overfishing. By making informed choices about the seafood we eat, we can help ensure the health of our oceans and the future of seafood for generations to come.

The History of World Ocean Day:

The concept of World Ocean Day was first proposed by the Canadian government in 1992 during the Earth Summit held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The purpose was to highlight the importance of the oceans and raise awareness about their sustainable management. It wasn't until 2008, when the United Nations officially recognized June 8th as World Ocean Day, that it gained global recognition.

The Significance of World Ocean Day:

Our oceans are home to diverse marine ecosystems, regulate our climate, provide a source of livelihood for millions of people, and produce over half of the oxygen we breathe. They also serve as a source of inspiration and recreation for countless individuals around the world. However, our oceans face numerous threats, including pollution, overfishing, habitat destruction, and climate change. World Ocean Day serves as a call to action to address these issues and promote the sustainable use of our marine resources.

How to Celebrate World Ocean Day:

1. Support Sustainable Seafood: Overfishing is depleting fish populations and damaging marine ecosystems. Opt for sustainably sourced seafood and support fisheries that employ responsible practices. This choice helps protect our oceans' biodiversity and ensures the long-term viability of the fishing industry. If you are a Premier Catch customer, you are already supporting sustainable seafood and protecting our oceans! 

2. Spread Awareness: Educate yourself and others about the importance of the oceans. Share interesting facts, videos, and articles on social media. Engage in conversations about ocean conservation and encourage others to get involved.

3. Organize or Participate in Events: Join local beach cleanups, coastal restoration activities, or marine conservation events in your area. These hands-on experiences allow you to contribute directly to the preservation of our oceans.

4. Reduce Plastic Use: Plastic pollution is one of the biggest threats to our oceans. Make a conscious effort to reduce your plastic consumption. Choose reusable items over single-use plastics, recycle properly, and participate in initiatives that aim to reduce plastic waste.

5. Get Involved: Support organizations and initiatives dedicated to ocean conservation. Volunteer your time, donate to relevant causes, or participate in fundraising events. By contributing to these efforts, you can make a tangible difference in preserving our oceans.

World Ocean Day is a powerful reminder of the immense value our oceans hold and the urgent need to protect them. By understanding the history, significance, and threats facing our oceans, we can actively participate in their conservation. Through individual actions, such as spreading awareness, reducing plastic use, supporting sustainable seafood, and getting involved in events and initiatives, we can collectively ensure a healthier and more sustainable future for our oceans. 

Join us in celebrating World Ocean Day and working towards a world where the beauty, resources, and biodiversity of our oceans thrive for generations to come.