8 June 2010 — Happy World Oceans Day! Unless, of course, you live in the ocean, and then, well, things aren’t so happy these days. World Oceans Day is an official United Nations recognized day to promote the conservation and sustainability of the world’s oceans. Sadly, this year, there is not a lot to celebrate. Millions of gallons of oil continue to flood into the Gulf of Mexico, global fish stocks continue to decline, climate change continues to ravage ocean ecosystems, and nation’s will gather this month to decide whether the world’s great whales should be hunted again. Why is it that while across the globe people are more engaged than ever on social and environmental issues, we continue to treat oceans like dumping grounds and ocean resources like candy for the taking? Let’s hope that we soon learn how to respect and care for all our marine habitats — before we do irreparable damage. Then perhaps we can really celebrate our world’s oceans.
