To celebrate our world’s shared ocean and our personal connection to the sea, as well as to raise awareness about the crucial role the ocean plays in our lives and the important ways people can help protect it.

Globally coordinated and promoted by The Ocean Project since 2002, World Ocean Day is an annual celebration on 8 June as well as a call for ocean and climate action throughout the year. Starting in 2008, the United Nations officially recognized World Ocean Day. This unique celebration brings together thousands of organizations and millions of individuals each year.

The 2022 Conservation Action Focus: Protect at least 30% of our blue planet by 2030

Youth play an increasingly important role in the development and growth of World Ocean Day in June, helping to raise the profile of the importance of our one shared ocean that connects us all. No matter where we live, we all depend on a healthy ocean to survive and thrive, and safeguarding the ocean will help us secure a stable climate into the future.  

“As young people we have the power to make a difference and protect our oceans. We can be the voice for the voiceless, the endangered species, and the climate. We can play a pivotal role in decision-making and dialogue, inspiring others to take action” – MARIA

Youth engagement and leadership is critically important to bring about the transformative change needed today. On the local, national, and international levels, youth are engaging on policy issues to advance progress for a healthy ocean and stable climate.

“To me, celebrating World Ocean Day means celebrating all the efforts that are made by individuals worldwide,” said Rada Pandeva, Youth Advisory Council Representative from Bulgaria, age 20, “It is a chance to recognize the progress we are making and to remind ourselves to keep going because our own wellbeing is dependent on our ocean’s wellbeing.”

The Youth Advisory Council is comprised of 26 members ages 16 – 23, who represent 21 diverse countries and backgrounds. They provide new and unique perspectives, ideas, and recommendations for rallying the world for action and the Council works together to inform and motivate their communities and countries, inspiring youth and others in June and throughout the year. 

“Celebrating World Ocean Day is an opportunity to not only celebrate the incredible life that inhabits the wider global ocean and my local seas, but to also raise awareness of and facilitate impactful discussions on the issues impacting the ocean,” said Caitlin Turner, Youth Advisory Council Representative from Scotland, age 22.