WORLD OCEANS DAY 2024 by Shenequa Williams and Carol-Faye George

Every June 8, World Oceans Day is commemorated as a reminder that we aught to honour and protect our oceans. Proposed at the 1992 Earth Summit but was officially recognized by the United Nations (UN) in 2008. This special day highlights the oceans’ critical role and the urgent issues they face, like pollution and overfishing.

The 2024 theme, “Catalyzing Action for Our Ocean & Climate,” underscores the need for sustainable practices and policies to protect marine health. Oceans, covering over 70% of Earth’s surface, (a) produce at least 50% of the oxygen, (b) absorb about 30% of human-produced carbon dioxide, and (c) support over 3 billion people’s livelihoods.

Antigua and Barbuda exemplify oceans and their biodiversity conservation by taking action. Known for its coral reefs and marine life, the country has restricted the importation of single-use plastics since 2016 and established the Antigua and Barbuda Marine Ecosystems Protected Area (ABMPA), safeguarding over 3,000 hectares of vital marine habitats.

Let us continue to be a part of the solution. Get involved in World Oceans Day and every day by participating in educational programs, stop polluting and littering, join beach clean-ups, support marine conservation organizations such as the Environmental Awareness Group (EAG), make sustainable choices, and spread awareness on social media.

Bearing this year’s theme in mind, globally we are called upon for collective and combined actions for the protection our oceans. Countries such as ours that continue to show dedicated efforts as we inspire others to do likewise, this can lead to significant progress, ensuring that the oceans will continue to thrive for generations to come.