In 2008, the United Nations General Assembly designated 8 June as “World Oceans Day.” The oceans are essential to food security and the health and survival of all life, power our climate and are a critical part of the biosphere. The official designation of World Oceans Day is an opportunity to raise global awareness of the current challenges faced by all our communities, both local and global, in connection with our oceans.

How can you participate?

1. How about making a promise to the ocean?  Decide to make a change in your life to help the ocean – or share what you’re already doing.  Take a photo of yourself with a sign promoting your cause, at your favorite nature spot, or whatever you want!  Upload it to your favorite social media channel using the hashtag #WorldOceansDay and join the conversation on Twitter and Facebook.
2. Purchase these whimsical postage stamps issued by the U.N. Postal Administration featuring Dr. Suess’s “One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish.” These timeless characters bring their own unique view on healthy oceans.
3. Make your garden more ocean-friendly.  Learning how and what to plant and finding non-toxic ways to deal with insects and other lawn pests can have a huge impact on our oceans.  After all, your local river most likely leads, eventually, to the ocean!
4. Book a trip to go whale watching with the Coastal Research and Education Society of Long Island.  Their first trip isn’t until June 30, but you can take advantage every Sunday after that through September 8, so there’s plenty of time to see and learn about the ocean’s most fascinating and magnificent animals.
5. Catch the premiere of the “Overfishing Song” on Papa Cloudy.  What is Papa Cloudy?  We’re not sure, but it’s intriguing enough to make us want to tune in to watch the octopus sing!