As North-West University celebrates World Oceans Day, it is important to remember the critical role oceans play in our environment and our daily lives. This day serves as a powerful reminder of the fragility of our planet’s oceans and the need to protect them from ongoing pollution and destruction.
World Oceans Day provides an opportunity for individuals, communities, and organisations to come together and emphasise the importance of ocean conservation and sustainable practices. As well as highlighting threats facing the oceans, such as pollution, overfishing, habitat destruction, and climate change, it also promotes solutions and encourages collective action.
31 years ago, Canada proposed a motion to globally recognise the importance of protecting our oceans at the Earth Summit. Today, 150 countries observe this day to raise awareness of human activity’s impact on our oceans. They also look at ways to sustainably manage the oceans. Whether you’re raising awareness or taking action, there are many ways to celebrate World Oceans Day.
Oceans are intrinsically valuable and should be protected. Oceans cover 70% of the planet, and billions rely on oceans for their livelihoods. Oceans hold 80% of the world’s biodiversity, and studies show that every second breath we take is from oceanic sustenance. However, our precious oceans are under a threat from pollution, overfishing and climate change.
Every year, United Nations (UN) member states observe the day to mobilise sustainable ways to protect and sustainably manage our oceans. Each year also follows a specific theme, and this year the theme is recognising that ‘The Tides are Changing’. This theme pays homage to awareness of the need to conserve marine resources for the future.
The NWU Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management stands at the center of NWU helping develop a sustainable world for all. The unit hosts a sub-programme, led by Prof Jonathan Taylor, called Aquatic Ecosystem Health. This sub-programme researches effective water resource management.
Recently, the NWU’s Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management hosted an international study in collaboration with KU Leuven (Belgium) and Hokkaido University (Japan). As a result of human activity, freshwater species are under threat. It extensively studies water conservation and how the Nation is affected.
The NWU encourages students, staff, and stakeholders to participate in World Ocean Day activities. To achieve this, we can learn about marinas, explore sustainable fisheries, eat sustainable seafood, and keep up to date with marine news.
Let’s make a positive contribution to the oceans and the environment on World Oceans Day!
#MyNWU #NWUCares #NWUNatural