Our Oceans Need Help!
As the world celebrates the World Oceans Day, the United States of America today reminded the international community to work hand in hand as the world’s oceans are in trouble in today’s modern era.
In his remarks in Washington DC, US Secretary of State John Kerry said the celebration is a time to pause and focus on protecting the ocean.
He highlighted that the international community have the responsibility to protect the ocean against the threats of overfishing, marine pollution, and ocean acidification.
“The entire system is interdependent, and we ignore that fact at our peril.” – Secretary Kerry
World’s Oceans Are In Trouble
Studies have revealed that rising acidity in the ocean is dissolving the shells of a key species of tiny sea creature which are important food source for fishes particularly salmon, herring, mackerel and other fish in the Pacific Ocean. These fishes are eaten by millions of people annually.
There is fear that if the trend continues, scientists underscored that climate change will imperil the ocean environment.
This phenomena where the seawater becomes acidic is likely to threaten species that make up the majority the ocean’s food chain.
Ocean As Earth’s Most Extraordinary Ecosystem
According to Secretary Kerry, life wouldn’t be possible were it not for the oceans.
“We depend on the ocean for life’s essentials: the food we eat and the air that we breathe.” – Secretary Kerry
The oceans provide jobs for millions of people around the world, and a home for countless unique species as well.
“Our Ocean” Conference
Addressing the challenges faced by the ocean, the US is hosting “Our Ocean” conference on June 16-17. The conference will bring together high-level representatives from governments around the world, scientists, the environmental community, industry, and other stakeholders to address the challenges of sustainable fisheries, marine pollution, and ocean acidification, and how they can work together to solve them.
