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About the UN World Oceans Day
Since its inception in 2008, United Nations World Oceans Day (UN WOD) has celebrated the ocean and its importance to the planet and our lives while raising awareness about the many threats it faces. As the challenges to the ocean continue to grow, so does the need to understand and mobilize globally. Explore Previous Events
United Nations World Oceans Day is hosted by the United Nations Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea, Office of Legal Affairs (DOALOS) in partnership with Oceanic Global.
For more information about this celebration, and others surrounding World Oceans Day, please visit www.UNWorldOceansDay.org or follow the event on Instagram @unworldoceansday.
Some Facts About Oceans
The oceans produce at least 50% of the planet’s oxygen.
The oceans are key to our economy, with an estimated 40 million people being employed by ocean-based industries by 2030.
Oceans absorb about 30% of carbon dioxide produced by humans, buffering the impacts of global warming. Oceans cover over 70% of the planet. They are our life source, supporting humanity’s sustenance and that of every other organism on Earth.
The oceans produce at least 50% of the planet’s oxygen, are home to most of Earth’s biodiversity, and are the main source of protein for more than a billion people around the world. Not to mention, the oceans are key to our economy, with an estimated 40 million people being employed by ocean-based industries by 2030.
Even with all their benefits, the oceans are now in need of support. With 90% of big fish populations depleted and 50% of coral reefs destroyed, we are taking more from the oceans than can be replenished. We need to work together to create a new balance with the oceans that no longer depletes their bounty but instead restores their vibrancy and brings them new life.
A Ray of Hope for the Oceans’ Biodiversity
In March 2023, UN delegates reached a historic agreement on protecting marine biodiversity in international waters after nearly two decades of talks. Already being referred to as the ‘High Seas Treaty,’ the legal framework would put more money into marine conservation and cover access to and use of marine genetic resources.
The theme for World Oceans Day 2024
“Awaken New Depths” is the theme for World Oceans Day 2024. The UN is joining forces with decision-makers, indigenous leaders, scientists, private sector executives, civil society, celebrities, and youth activists to showcase how our relationship with the oceans needs to urgently change since our efforts to date have only skimmed the surface. To motivate widespread momentum for the oceans, we need to awaken new depths.
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