Saving Our Oceans
Every year on June 8, people around the world are invited to celebrate World Ocean Day. The Mini Page learns more about World Ocean Day this week.
June 8
According to the World Ocean Day organization, “World Ocean Day rallies the world for ocean and climate action.” The organization works with zoos, aquariums, museums and other organizations across the globe to increase awareness of ocean and climate issues. By educating others on these topics, they hope for a better future with a healthier ocean and more stable climate.
Oceans
There are five oceans around the world: Arctic, Pacific, Atlantic, Indian and Southern. The Pacific Ocean covers more than 30% of Earth. This is also the ocean with the most islands in it. Together, the oceans make up 70% of the world’s surface.
The Atlantic Ocean is the second-largest ocean. It makes up 20% of the Earth’s surface and 29% of the planet’s water. The Atlantic Ocean is connected to all the other oceans. It’s also the first ocean to have ever been crossed by a plane.
Every 10 years, the Arctic Ocean’s ice cover shrinks by 12.6%. Polar bears depend on sea ice to help them capture seals for food because seals raise their young on sea ice. With the ice surfaces diminishing, or getting smaller, this makes it harder for both polar bears and seals to survive.
Cleanup event
One way to celebrate World Ocean Day is by attending a cleanup event in your area with a grown-up. These events raise awareness about the damage done to our environment by plastic pollution.
According to World
Ocean Day, cleaning up trash reduces the amount of plastic pollution that reaches the ocean or harms wildlife. Cleanup events can also unite a community as the volunteers work together with a common goal in mind.
If you don’t have an event in your area, you can work with an adult to plan one yourself!