71% of the ocean floor is covered by the ocean, which is essential to the survival of life. The ocean plays a critical role in our ecosystem, controlling everything from the climate to supplying food and medicine. June 8th is World Ocean Day, a day set aside to honour and value the ocean and its resources as well as to spread awareness of the problems currently affecting our oceans.
By absorbing heat and carbon dioxide, the ocean is an essential component in controlling the climate of the planet. It also aids in the management of storms and weather patterns. Fish and other seafood are major sources of protein for millions of people all over the world, making the ocean another important source of food. Additionally, compounds found in aquatic organisms are used to treat cancer and other diseases, making the ocean a source of medicine.
Ocean-related Threats
Despite its significance, human activity poses a number of threats to the ocean. One of the major threats is pollution, which damages marine life by clogging the ocean with plastics and other debris. Rising temperatures and acidification are causing issues for marine organisms, which is another significant effect of climate change on the ocean. Another significant problem is overfishing, which can deplete fish populations and disturb entire ocean ecosystems.
Safeguarding the ocean
We can safeguard the ocean as well as its resources in a number of ways. Reducing waste and pollution is one of the most crucial ways. We can achieve this by using fewer single-use plastics, throwing away trash properly, and composting. Taking action to lessen our carbon emissions and stop climate change is another crucial step. We can achieve this by consuming less meat, reducing our driving, and using clean energy.
By encouraging ethical fishing methods, eating seafood that was caught ethically, and supporting marine species conservation efforts, we can also help the ocean. A vital tool for preserving the ocean is the creation of marine protected areas (MPAs). MPAs are areas where fishing and other resource extraction activities are prohibited, allowing marine life to flourish there.
Conclusion
World Ocean Day is a day to honour and appreciate the ocean, which is an essential component of our planet. It is crucial that we act to protect the ocean because it is under numerous threats from human activity. We can contribute to ensuring that the ocean is a healthy and thriving component of our planet for future generations by reducing emissions and waste, combating climate change, encouraging sustainable fishing methods, and protecting marine protected areas.
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