United Nations Secretary-General: Message on World Oceans Day - 8 June
The oceans make our blue planet unique in our solar system -- and not just visually. They help regulate the global
climate and are the ultimate source of the water that sustains all life on Earth, from coral reefs to snow-covered
mountains, from tropical rain forests to mighty rivers, and even deserts. However, the ability of the oceans to provide
their essential services is being threatened by climate change, pollution and unsustainable use.
On this World Oceans Day, we are highlighting the problem of plastic pollution. Eighty per cent of all pollution in the
sea comes from land, including some 8 million tons of plastic waste each year. It chokes waterways, harms communities
that depend on fishing and tourism, kills turtles and birds, whales and dolphins, and finds its way to the most remote
areas of the planet and throughout the food chain on which we ultimately rely. Unless we change course, plastic waste
could soon outweigh all the fish in the oceans.
We must work individually and collectively to stop this preventable tragedy and significantly reduce marine pollution of
all kinds, including plastic. Action starts at home, and speaks louder than words. The United Nations aims to lead by
example, and more than 30 of our agencies have now begun working to end the use of single-use plastic.
But everyone needs to play a part. You can make a difference today – and every day -- by doing simple things like
carrying your own water bottle, coffee cup and shopping bags, recycling the plastic you buy, avoiding products that
contain microplastics and volunteering for a local clean-up.
If we all do a little, our combined actions can be massive. On this World Oceans Day, I urge governments, communities
and individuals alike to celebrate our oceans by helping clear them of pollution and ensure they remain vibrant for
generations to come.
Via
Julia Dean
United Nations Information Centre
Canberra