When we think about environment and public health risks, we may skip oceans. However, the health of ocean is intertwined with our health. It is environment that has all the solutions to humankind. Ocean gives us food, help in the regulation of climate, and give rise to most of the oxygen that we breathe. But in spite of their importance, oceans are facing unparalleled threats because of various human activity.

This is one of the various reasons why we should celebrate World Oceans Day. It is an international day that is celebrated on the 8th of June. It was first presented in by Canada’s International Centre for Ocean Development (ICOD) and the Ocean Institute of Canada (OIC) at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in 1992. Later on, World Oceans Day was officially recognised by the United Nations in 2008.

It is celebrated to remind everyone of the vital role the oceans play in our everyday life. They act like the lungs of our planet as they generate most of the oxygen that we breathe. The intend behind celebrating this day is to aware the public about the impact of human actions on the ocean, Evolve a worldwide movement of people for the ocean, and unite the world’s population in order to bring out sustainable management of the world’s oceans.

What are Coral Reefs ?

Oceans consist of coral reefs ecosystems which are diverse and intricate creatures that interact with each other and the physical environment. It is a class of w animal related to jellyfish, hydroids and sea anemones. They play a major role in maintaining the health of our oceans and our economy. But due to the impact of human actions on oceans and its ecosystem, coral reefs faced a huge decline and thus marine ecosystem has been tampered leading to loss of habitat and food for many species.

What can we do to protect Coral Reefs ?

Even if we live far from coral reefs, we can have an impact on reef health and conservation. Here’s some things we can do in order to ensure conservation of reefs:

• conserve water: The first and foremost thing we can do is conserve water. The less water we use, the less wastewater and runoff finds it way back to the ocean.

• choose sustainable seafood: Fish populations are increasingly being depleted due to loss of habitat, demand, and unsustainable fishing practices. Choose seafood that is both healthy and sustainable.

• volunteer: volunteer in government projects if you can such a beach cleanups drive.

• Dispose off your trash properly: do not litter places which are near the beach. Don’t leave unwanted fishing nets in the water or on the beach.

• plant a tree: trees reduce runoff into the oceans. By planting a tree, we can contribute in reversing the warming of our planet and rising temperature of our water bodies.

• use organic fertiliser: even if we live far way from water bodies, these products flow into the oceans and rivers, pollute them and can harm the marine life.

• reduce pollution: reduce your carbon foot print and use bicycles, walk or ride the bus. Because emissions from vehicle could lead to ocean warming.

• And finally, stay informed and Spread the Word! Educate yourself about healthy coral reefs and its importance to fish, plants, animals and humankind. Your excitement would help in getting others involved.