We celebrate World Ocean day on the 8th of June to spread awareness about their critical role in our lives and ways to protect it. And why not? Its contribution to food, livelihood, and habitat makes it crucial.
Notably, 60% of the Earth’s population lives on the coasts, and this is why we need to care for oceans and their habitat.
On that note, let us find the top 3 reasons why we should care for the oceans and conserve their natural state.
Reason 1: A major source of oxygen
Did you know oceans offer nearly 70% of the oxygen we breathe? The sea plant Posidonia covers nearly two-thirds of our Earth’s surface and contributes to the oxygen we breathe. In fact, it is said that every 7 out of 10 breaths we take comes from the ocean.
Above all, oceans abound in tiny organisms adept at absorbing carbon dioxide, thus playing a crucial role in regulating carbon levels and managing the climate. To elaborate, oceans play a vital role in regulating the climate by controlling rain and droughts. In their absence, the weather could turn extreme and make regions inhabitable.
Reason 2: A crucial t food source
The ocean is rich in seafood, algae, sea grape, and dulce. It also serves as a major source of animal protein. This is because fishes account for around 16% of animal protein that is consumed across the world. It is said that oceans could emerge as a sustainable approach to feeding the growing population due to their food reserve. However, it can become a sustainable food source only if adequately maintained.
Reason 3: Serve as a natural habitat
Did you know experts are yet to discover half of the underwater species that dwell in the ocean? In fact, over 90% of the species living in oceans are yet to be described. Experts estimate that more than 300,000 species have found their home in oceans, where each plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecosystem’s trophic chain.
However, rapid climate change greatly threatens the ocean and its species. As the temperature of the giant waterbody continues to surge, it decreases its natural pH level. As a result, the natural oxygen content of the ocean is decreasing rapidly. While some species have
become capable of adjusting to this fast-paced change, many are succumbing to thermal stress. Undoubtedly this is why global warming has been connected to the increase in mass mortalities across the Mediterranean.
Bonus: Generates source of income
Did you know nearly 3 billion people’s livelihood depends on the ocean in developing countries? A report shared by OECD predicts that by 2030, ocean-based industries will generate employment for over 40 million people worldwide. A large section of the job would be from sectors such as tourism and fisheries.
These factors suggest that we depend heavily on our oceans, which is why we must be mindful of them and help conserve their natural habitat and living beings.
