ONE World, ONE Ocean

Last week was World Oceans Day, so today (a little belated!) we’re reflecting on the state of our seas and what we can do to help ensure that they remain healthy and abundant for everyone to enjoy for years to come.

Experts say the warning signs are clear. Due to global fishing practices, pollution, warming sea temperatures, and ocean acidification (caused by fossil fuel CO2), the world’s oceans are in a state of ‘silent collapse,’ threatening our food supply, marine economies, recreation and the natural legacy we leave our children.

Did you know?

• The ocean gives us life. Oceans supply us with food and 50 – 70 percent of the oxygen we breathe. They help regulate our climate, and are important sources of biodiversity.  They provide recreation and a livelihood for millions of people.

• Scientists estimate that 90% of the large predatory fish such as shark, swordfish and cod have been removed from the world’s oceans due to advanced technologies, allowing us to fish farther, deeper and more efficiently then ever before. Our fishing practices are simply not sustainable.

• There are currently 405 known dead zones in the oceans of the world where there is no oxygen due to fertiliser run off and pollution. Very few marine animals can survive in these areas. Acidification and pollution is killing ocean wildlife at devastating rates. We have lost 25% of coral reefs, and 40% of the ocean’s phytoplankton.

• Not all fish sold in your local market is caught using environmentally friendly practices. Be aware of where your local seafood comes from (see links below).  Purchase ocean friendly seafood and learn what fish to avoid eating.

Educate yourself & join us in supporting organizations that are working tirelessly to protect our ocean resources:

www.seafoodwatch.org

Download printed pocket guides or link to apps with fish buying guidelines

www.OneWorldOneOcean.org.

Inviting you to learn and join the movement to restore and protect the health of the world’s oceans.

http://www.pewenvironment.org/

Working globally to establish pragmatic, science-based policies that protect our oceans.

http://www.seaweb.org/about.php

The only international nonprofit organization exclusively dedicated to strategically communicating about ocean issues.

http://na.oceana.org/en/living-blue/seafood-guide

The largest international organization working solely to protect the world’s oceans.  Listed here, a sustainable seafood guide for the individual buyer.

And for some educational entertainment: The Cove is a brilliant documentary that follows a high-tech dive team hoping to uncover the truth about the dolphin capture and trade in Japan. Also check out Home – a beautiful film exploring the state of our planet and the challenges we will have to face if we do not protect it. Watch the trailer below and the full film on YouTube here.

‘The Cove’ Trailer

‘Home’ Trailer: