Today is World Oceans Day 2025. The theme for this year is “Wonder: Sustaining What Sustains Us”

Cannon Beach, Oregon - Pacific OceanCannon Beach, Oregon – Pacific Ocean

Why World Oceans Day Matters (And Why We Should Care)

Let’s take a moment to appreciate just how incredible our oceans are. They cover a whopping 70% of the Earth’s surface and are basically the planet’s life support system. Think about it: every other breath you take comes from the ocean, thanks to the oxygen it provides. It’s also a source of food for billions and is home to about 80% of all life on Earth. In short, the ocean is essential to our survival.

But here’s the tough truth: our oceans are in trouble. Big trouble.
What’s Threatening Our Oceans?

  • Overfishing: We’re taking more fish than the ocean can naturally replace.
  • Bycatch: Countless sea creatures get caught unintentionally and don’t survive.
  • Pollution (including ghost gear): From plastic waste to abandoned fishing nets, pollution is choking marine life.
  • Climate Change: Warming waters and acidification are changing the ocean in ways we’re only beginning to understand.
  • Loss of Marine Biodiversity: Species are disappearing, and ecosystems are getting out of balance.

World Oceans Day: More Than Just Awareness

World Oceans Day isn’t just about learning the facts—it’s about taking action. It’s a global invitation for all of us, no matter where we live, to come together and protect our blue planet for the generations to come.

Organizations like the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) are leading the way, showing that sustainable fishing is key. When fisheries operate responsibly, we keep fish populations healthy, protect marine habitats, and make sure people everywhere can enjoy seafood for years to come.

This World Oceans Day, I’m shining a spotlight on the positive impact of MSC-certified sustainable fisheries. Sustainable fishing is about so much more than just catching fish—it’s about caring for the entire ocean ecosystem.
Meet the Five Oceans

Even though it’s all one big connected body of water, we usually talk about five main oceans:

  • Pacific Ocean: The biggest and deepest, stretching between Asia and the Americas.
  • Atlantic Ocean: The second largest, sandwiched between Europe, Africa, and the Americas.
  • Indian Ocean: Third in size, bordered by Asia, Africa, and Australia.
  • Arctic Ocean: The smallest, shallowest, and coldest, circling the North Pole.
  • Southern (Antarctic) Ocean: Surrounding Antarctica at the bottom of the world.

This World Oceans Day, let’s remember just how much we rely on healthy oceans—and let’s do our part to keep them thriving!

Mia

Click here to see more of my landscape and travel postcard photos.