World Ocean Day is an annual event, taking place this year on the 7th June, and this year’s theme is catalyzing action for our ocean and climate. It focusses specifically on the urgent need for collaborative efforts to protect and sustain the ocean, which plays a critical role in tackling the climate crisis.
Since the late 19th century, the Earth’s average temperature has risen by 1.2 degrees Celsius. The Paris Agreement aims to limit global warming to well below 2°C, with efforts being made to cap the increase at 1.5°C.
Our biggest asset in limiting global warming is the ocean, which absorbs 90% of excess heat generated by human activity. In addition, it absorbs almost 30% of our CO2 emissions each year.
And much of this is taken in by organisms like seaweed, coral, and oysters. But due to overfishing and habitat loss, and pollution, marine life has declined, meaning the ocean can absorb less CO2.
In fact, 95% of all native oyster reefs are gone. Luckily, it’s not irreversible.
We know that oysters play a vital role in protecting coastal regions from environmental damage. They sustain and improve the ocean by filtering water. Which our goal is to release 150M oysters into local waters each year. Those oysters can filter 36B litres of water per day, making a significant impact on water quality and ecosystem health.
So, for World Ocean Day 2024, let's commit to ongoing efforts to protect and preserve our oceans and local coastlines for generations to come.
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