Did you realize that June is internationally recognized as World Oceans Month? This noteworthy initiative, spearheaded by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) serves as a crucial reminder of the pivotal role our oceans play in sustaining life on earth. Globally a staggering 90% of large fish populations have been decimated, and half of our invaluable coral reefs have succumbed to destruction. This year on World Oceans Day on June 8th, the theme was fittingly titled, “Planet Ocean: Tides are Changing,” highlighting the growing momentum behind ocean conservation efforts.
The critical role of oceans in our biosphere is often underestimated. They are the world's largest producers of oxygen, responsible for generating at least 50% of the vital element we breathe. Additionally, oceans serve as the earth's buffer, absorbing about 30% of the carbon dioxide produced by human activity, thereby mitigating the effects of climate change.
The tide, however, is indeed changing. Emerging tales of hope and progress in ocean conservation are starting to ripple across the globe. Take for example, the groundbreaking High Seas Treaty agreed upon by UN delegates in March 2023. This legal framework is designed not only to inject more funds into marine conservation but also to regulate the access and use of marine genetic resources. Other examples include revival of California's kelp forest; in New Zealand, the government is working alongside indigenous communities to manage marine protected areas, and marine reserves are being established worldwide.
Stories like these, among others, are being curated by Bioneers, an innovative nonprofit organization dedicated to spotlighting transformative solutions for restoring the health of our planet and its inhabitants. In honor of World Oceans Day, they have compiled these stories as a testament to the profound changes underway in the sphere of ocean conservation.
https://us7.campaign-archive.com/?e=f23d64684d&u=a916efad15735b28723d0ce37&id=7d63363bc6
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