The world is marking World Oceans Day today, June 8, a date dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of oceans in sustaining life on Earth and the growing challenges posed by pollution, environmental degradation, and the overexploitation of marine resources.
In a message issued to mark the occasion, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres called on governments, businesses, and citizens to stop viewing the oceans as an inexhaustible resource. According to the UN chief, despite their vast size, marine ecosystems are facing increasing threats, making sustainable management essential to ensure their preservation for future generations.
Guterres also warned about the impact of climate change, pollution, and the overexploitation of marine resources, factors that threaten the health of the oceans and, consequently, the environmental and economic well-being of millions of people around the world.
Speaking to MFM Radio, Portuguese marine scientist Maria João Babiano called for stronger ocean protection policies and more effective measures to combat environmental pollution. The expert highlighted plastic waste as one of the main problems identified by the United Nations, stressing that such pollution has been compromising the health of marine ecosystems—and humanity itself—for many years.
According to Maria João Babiano, World Oceans Day also serves as an opportunity to encourage governments, businesses, and citizens to adopt more sustainable practices capable of protecting marine ecosystems from both visible and invisible threats that affect biodiversity and water quality.
Meanwhile, Angolan diver and marine expert Ernesto Brito emphasized the importance of the ocean to Angola’s food security. According to the specialist, a significant portion of the Angolan population depends on marine resources for nutrition, with fish remaining one of the country’s most widely consumed foods.
Ernesto Brito also called for stronger monitoring and regulation of fishing activities, warning about the risks associated with unregulated fishing, trawling operations, and plastic pollution, all of which threaten the sustainability of the country’s marine resources.
Celebrated annually on June 8, World Oceans Day seeks to promote global awareness of the fundamental role oceans play in environmental balance, economic development, and human survival, while encouraging concrete actions aimed at their conservation.
06/08/2026
