Today is World Oceans Day! So, let’s celebrate this teeming ecosystem that covers nearly 70% of the Earth’s surface.
The amazing invertebrates, coral reefs, create protective habitats for sponges, fish, and tons of other marine life.
Home to millions of species of fish, shellfish, sharks, turtles, whales, and many other types of sea creatures, the ocean sustains life for us landlubbers too! Scientists estimate that oceans produce at least 50% of the oxygen we breathe, and it absorbs about 30% of the carbon dioxide which we produce. Healthy oceans go a long way towards fighting climate change and ensuring a liveable present and future for all of us.
Sea turtles like this one at Midway Atoll in Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument in Hawai’i can live 50 years or more.
In addition to producing oxygen and absorbing carbon, the ocean is a vital source of nutrition for people from all over the world. According to the United Nations, the ocean is the primary source of protein for over 1 billion people.
World Oceans Day is a good time to recommit ourselves to the mission of restoring the natural splendor and bounty of the oceans so that marine life and humans alike may cherish it for generations to come.
Steady on,
Rob
