We are all connected by the ocean, and our actions can have a significant impact on its health. This year, let’s celebrate and take action on World Ocean Day.
June is the month dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of the world’s oceans. Even though Oklahoma doesn’t have direct access to an ocean, our actions can still affect the overall health of these vast bodies of water. The rivers that run through our state eventually lead to the ocean, and pollution from inland areas can find its way there.
While being landlocked, we can still appreciate and honor the oceans on World Ocean Day. Even if you happen to be near a coastal area, you might find some exciting events taking place to commemorate this special day. Additionally, virtual events can be found on the World Ocean Day website, allowing people from all over the world to participate.
What is World Ocean Day?
The concept was initially proposed by Canada in 1992 at the Earth Summit in Rio. By 2002, The Ocean Project started promoting World Ocean Day globally.
The mission of World Ocean Day is to bring people together to celebrate and take action for our shared blue planet. It reminds us that we are all connected by one ocean and one climate.
When is World Ocean Day?
World Ocean Day is celebrated annually on June 8th. However, please note that specific events and activities may vary, so it’s always a good idea to check the World Ocean Day calendar for the latest updates.
Ways to Celebrate World Ocean Day at Home
Now, let’s explore some meaningful ways to celebrate World Ocean Day right from the comfort of your own home.
Watch Disneynature Films
Disney+ offers a range of fantastic Disneynature films dedicated to exploring the wonders of the ocean. It’s a perfect time to dive into these captivating documentaries and learn more about the marine world. National Geographic also has a collection of ocean documentaries available on Disney+.
Start a Zero Waste Challenge
Plastic and other waste pose significant threats to our oceans. Take the opportunity to educate yourself about the harm caused by plastic pollution and embark on a 30-day zero-waste challenge. By reducing your own waste, you can make a positive impact on the health of the oceans.
Make a Coral Reef
Coral reefs are vital ecosystems within our oceans. Engage in a creative activity by crocheting your own coral reef or using paint and other craft supplies to construct a colorful representation. You can enjoy this hands-on project while watching ocean documentaries and learning more about these delicate habitats.
Make a Whale From Trash
Dive into your recycling bin and gather materials to create an adorable whale craft. This activity not only raises awareness about the ocean but also encourages repurposing waste in an imaginative and meaningful way.
Color a Sea Turtle
Sea turtles play a crucial role in our ecosystem, and coloring an illustration of these magnificent creatures can be a delightful and educational way to celebrate our oceans. You can find free sea turtle coloring pages online to get started on this creative journey.
Read Books About the Ocean
Plastic Soup: An Atlas of Ocean Pollution
Plastic Soup: An Atlas of Ocean Pollution is a beautifully-illustrated survey of the plastics clogging our seas, their impacts on wildlife and people around the world, and inspirational initiatives designed to tackle the problem.
Going Blue: A Teen Guide to Saving Our Oceans, Lakes, Rivers, & Wetlands
Going Blue is divided into the five stages of service learning: investigation, preparation, action, reflection, and demonstration. Special sections include a history of ocean exploration with a profile of Jacques Cousteau; an interview with Philippe Cousteau; stories of young people around the world addressing water issues; book and Web resources; and an afterword for adults.
Let's Investigate Plastic Pollution: On Land and in the Oceans
The Get Started With STEM series gives young science enthusiasts all the information they need to investigate and do their part to help solve this problem now and for the future. Packed with facts, discussion topics, imaginative ideas for activities, experiments, and investigations, this book will have students eager to use their science skills and knowledge to tackle plastic pollution head on.
Wally The Whale & Ocean Pollution
Wally the whale is excited to go on a treasure ship seeking adventure with his three best friends, Diego, Sabi and Oscar. Along the way they find themselves facing different obstacles and dangerous situations. Join Wally as he discovers the common threat that is troubling his friends and his home.
An Ocean Of Change
Your kids will love young Liam’s helpful and determined personality as he discovers that his local beach is just covered in trash, which quickly pollutes our seas and oceans. He discovers his friends are to blame, but instead of pointing fingers, he kindly asks them to do better. The three kids begin patrolling the beach, cleaning up and raising awareness at the same time.
By embracing these activities and spreading awareness about the importance of the oceans, we can all contribute to the well-being of our blue planet on World Ocean Day and beyond. Let’s remember that no matter where we are, our actions matter, and together we can make a difference.
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