“Today, the United Nations is observing the day to raise awareness about the protection, preservation, and celebration of the oceans.”
In today’s global news, World Oceans Day is celebrated worldwide, emphasizing the oceans’ significance in human life, the preservation of marine life, and the reduction of marine pollution.
This year’s UN World Oceans Day theme, ‘Awaken New Depths,’ seeks to foster a deeper appreciation for the ocean and promote understanding, compassion, collaboration, and commitment to its sustenance.
Approximately 70% of the Earth’s surface is covered by oceans, which play a crucial role in absorbing heat, regulating carbon dioxide levels, and supplying oxygen essential for every breath we take.
Unfortunately, human activities contribute to 80% of ocean garbage, raising ocean temperatures and threatening marine ecosystems. Urgent action is needed to address these threats and find innovative solutions.
Top Ten Ocean Facts:
- The ocean covers 71% of the Earth’s surface.
- 37 out of 50 critical minerals can be found in the ocean.
- The ocean influences and regulates Earth’s climate, acting like the planet’s ‘heart.’
- There is enough salt in the ocean to cover the whole surface of the Earth.
- Less than 10% of the world’s ocean, and less than 50% of U.S. waters, have been mapped.
- The ocean floor is in constant motion.
- Sea levels and the amount of water in the ocean fluctuate over time.
- The exact number of species living in the ocean remains unknown.
- The Great Lakes, though not oceans, share similarities with them.
- The USGS conducts extensive ocean studies using various methods and disciplines.
