World Oceans in trouble
As the world celebrates World Oceans Day, the United States of America made a point of reminding the international community of the need to protect and maintain the health of the oceans.
In his remarks in Washington DC, US Secretary John Kerry toldd the international community that the already overstressed oceans can threaten global standards of living if the community chooses to be uncaring about its health.
“World Oceans Day, June 8, reminds of us the importance of our oceans and maintaining their health.” – Secretary Kerry
Oceans Under Enormous Stress Right Now
According to Secretary Kerry, the world’s oceans are under enormous stress right now.
Overfishing, pollution, and ocean acidification all threaten global standards of living.
He stressed the need for the international community to work vigilantly to protect the oceans.
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 other fish, particularly salmon, herring, mackerel and other fish in the Pacific Ocean. These fish 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 of the ocean’s food chain.
Global Effort To Save The Oceans
The need for ‘all for one’ cause is helpful in protecting the oceans.
According to Secretary Kerry, protecting the ocean is a task too big for any one government or institution to handle alone.
“All of us can – and must do – our part.” – Secretary Kerry
Tasks like choosing sustainable seafood, carpooling or public transportation more often, picking up litter, and reusing products are just a few small ways that one can all help to protect the ocean.
He underlined that a commitment to promote a sustainable, responsible relationship with the planet can make a difference especially maintaining the health of the ocean.
“Our Ocean” Conference
Addressing the challenges faced by the ocean, the US hosted “Our Ocean” conference last year. The conference brought 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 we can work together to solve these issues.
