Happy World Oceans Day

World Ocean Day is an annual global celebration held on 8 June to raise awareness about the critical role the oceans play in sustaining life on Earth. The oceans are the lifeblood of our planet, as Sir David Attenborough famously states, “If we save the sea, we save our world.” He believes that after studying the world for nearly a century, the ocean is the most important place on Earth because it produces the air we breathe, stabilizes the climate, and affects every living thing.

Globally the oceans are facing serious threats. Climate change, overfishing, plastic and noise pollution are some of the challenges we are facing. All across the world individuals and community groups are taking some inspiring action to raise awareness about these challenges and what we can all do to help keep our oceans healthy.

Locally on Phillip Island we are incredibly lucky to be witness to some remarkable marine landscapes and wildlife. From the mighty tiny little penguin, to the 80 tonnes gentle giant southern right whale, locals and visitors can experience some awe-inspiring wildlife encounters.

What can we all do to ensure we are having positive impact in our oceans?

Have a look at some of these simple changes you can adopt today:

1. Choose natural fibres over synthetics for your clothing, towels and sheets.
Clothing made from cotton, bamboo, hemp, linen or wool sheds far fewer microplastics than polyester, nylon and acrylic. Every wash of synthetic fabrics can release tiny plastic fibres that eventually reach our oceans. Why not watch The Plastic Detox on Netflix to get inspired on how you can help.

2. Switch to ocean-safe laundry and dishwashing products
Choose biodegradable, phosphate-free products and avoid ingredients such as phosphates, chlorine bleach, synthetic fragrances and quaternary ammonium compounds (“quats”), which can harm aquatic ecosystems.

3. Use zinc or mineral-based sunscreen
Mineral sunscreens containing zinc provide protection without the chemicals linked to coral and marine life impacts. They’re often a gentler choice for sensitive skin too.

4. Use environmentally friendly garden products
Reduce or avoid synthetic pesticides, herbicides and fertilisers, which can wash into waterways after rain. Home made compost (even your old coffee grounds!), mulch and organic pest-control methods help protect local streams that lead to the ocean.

5. Get involved in Citizen Science
Find out about how you can get hands-on experience in gathering wildlife data, from SealSpotter to taking photographs of pelicans and other wildlife under threat, it’s not only fun but also very important for research!

6. Support marine friendly tourism operators
Choose tour operators that follow wildlife viewing guidelines, minimise environmental impacts and actively support conservation. Responsible tourism helps protect the marine environments we all enjoy. Visit our sustainability page to understand how we are protecting our local environment.

Celebrate World Oceans Day, join us on a wildlife cruise, learn about your local marine wildlife and get inspired to help protect our oceans!