Latest news with #WorldOceanDay
Observer
14-07-2025
- General
- Observer
Turning the tide into the right direction for oceans
There's a saying you often hear in coastal communities: 'When the ocean is sick, the land will soon follow.' It might sound like just another old proverb, but in 2025, it has started to feel more real than ever. The ocean covers more than 70 per cent of the Earth's surface. It gives us over half the oxygen we breathe and helps keep our climate in balance by soaking up heat and carbon dioxide. It is home to millions of species. And for more than three billion people, it is a source of food, jobs and income. But despite everything the ocean does for us, we are still harming it. From overfishing and pollution to oil spills and climate change, the pressure keeps piling up. One of the worst practices is bottom trawling, dragging huge nets across the seafloor, which destroys marine life and releases carbon that had been safely stored in the seabed. Coral reefs are also in serious trouble. These underwater ecosystems protect our coastlines and support about a quarter of all marine species. But many are dying fast. All over the world, coastal communities are seeing the signs: fewer fish, bleached corals and beaches covered in plastic. In June 2025, world leaders, scientists and environmentalists met in Nice, France, for the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3). Co-hosted by France and Costa Rica, the event was more than just another big meeting; it was a strong reminder that we need to move faster to save our oceans. One big outcome was the Nice Ocean Action Plan, where countries made voluntary promises to better protect the ocean. India said it would ratify the High Seas Treaty. France called for tougher action, including a carbon tax on international shipping and more funding for sustainable "blue" industries. Around that same week, people around the world marked World Ocean Day on June 8, with the theme 'Sustainable Fishing Means More.' The next day, Coral Triangle Day was celebrated in Southeast Asia, focusing on the need to protect one of the world's richest marine areas. C:fakepathGvvWq0WXoAAefyu It might all sound far away, but it's not. Oman, for example, has one of the longest coastlines in the region, and the sea has always been a big part of who we are. Our history, our trade, our food; it's all tied to the ocean. But that connection means we also have a duty to protect it. There is a lot we can do. We can tighten the rules on coastal pollution and over-development. We can support more responsible fishing and invest in aquaculture. We can create more marine reserves where nature has space to recover. Oman has already added ocean education to school curriculum, helping young people understand the ocean's true value, not just as a fun place to visit but as something that keeps us alive. Oman is also active in global talks on marine protection and plastic waste. Saving the ocean isn't just about saving fish or coral. It's about protecting our climate, our food, our jobs and our future. Everything is connected to the sea. The good news? More people are paying attention. Governments are talking. Campaigns are gaining momentum. But talk isn't enough. We need real actions that are bold, consistent and guided by science. Admiring the sea during a sunset walk is nice, but it's not enough. We have to stand up for it. Because our lives depend on it. The tide is turning, so let's make sure it turns in the right direction.
The Star
30-06-2025
- Business
- The Star
Malaysia's role in the global effort in the war against plastic
As we approach World Ocean Day 2025, the theme 'Confronting the Escalating Plastic Waste Crisis' resonates deeply with the global community. Malaysia, a significant player in the plastic waste narrative, finds itself at the crossroads of being both a producer and a recipient of plastic waste. This opinion piece explores Malaysia's role in the global plastic waste crisis, emphasising the impact on ocean health and marine pollution. Malaysia's role in the global plastic waste crisis Malaysia plays a dual role: as a producer of plastic waste and a recipient of imported plastic waste. After China's 2018 ban on plastic waste imports, Malaysia became one of the top destinations for global plastic waste, particularly from developed countries. Domestically, high consumption of single-use plastics and limited recycling infrastructure exacerbate the issue. The influx of plastic waste has led to significant marine pollution, affecting the health of our oceans. Systemic weaknesses in waste management Malaysia's waste management system faces several challenges: relatively low recycling rates due to poor segregation at source, inadequate infrastructure for processing and recycling, and reliance on the informal sector, which lacks regulation and safety. Recent improvements include the Malaysia Plastics Sustainability Roadmap 2021–2030, but progress is slow compared to the scale of the problem. These systemic weaknesses contribute to the escalating plastic waste crisis, with significant amounts ending up in the oceans. The partial adoption of the Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Act 672 in seven out of Malaysia's 14 states contributes to the disparity in service levels, awareness, and cleanliness between states. Corporate accountability Corporate accountability remains limited. While some companies report sustainability efforts, enforcement and transparency are lacking. Many businesses still rely heavily on plastic packaging and do not disclose the full lifecycle impacts of their products. True corporate responsibility involves measurable targets for plastic reduction, supply chain transparency, and investment in alternatives and infrastructure. Beyond CSR and green marketing Most Malaysian companies are still in the early stages of sustainability. Efforts often focus on symbolic CSR activities rather than systemic changes. Few have adopted circular economy principles or redesigned products to minimise plastic use across the value chain. Genuine corporate leadership involves measurable goals, transparent disclosures and long-term commitment. Genuine corporate leadership versus greenwashing True leadership involves measurable targets for plastic reduction, transparent supply chains, and investment in alternatives. Greenwashing, by contrast, relies on vague claims and superficial branding with minimal impact. Independent audits and third-party certifications can help distinguish genuine efforts from hollow marketing. Promising innovations Innovations with strong potential in Malaysia include biodegradable packaging from palm waste or seaweed, refillable and reusable systems in retail, and AI-driven sorting technologies for recycling. Scaling these solutions requires both government incentives and private sector investment to reduce the amount of plastic entering the ocean. Supporting reusable and compostable models Waste systems can support this transition by standardising compostable materials, creating refill stations and reverse logistics, and educating consumers on proper disposal. Public-private partnerships are key to building the necessary infrastructure. By supporting reusable and compostable models, we can reduce the plastic waste burden on our oceans. Imported plastic waste Imported waste adds to Malaysia's burden, often arriving contaminated or mislabeled. Enforcement of import bans and stricter customs checks are needed. Malaysia has begun returning illegal shipments, but loopholes remain. Addressing the issue of imported plastic waste is crucial to protecting our marine environments. Government-private sector collaboration Effective collaboration could include Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes, tax incentives for sustainable packaging, and marine clean-up programmes co-funded by industry. Investments in waste-to-energy plants and advanced recycling would deliver tangible benefits. While independent associations such as MAREA have support from multinational companies, formalising regulation and cooperation between NGOs and government agencies will be crucial in building a workable and sustainable EPR system. Lessons from other countries Malaysia can learn from South Korea's strict waste segregation laws, Germany's EPR and deposit-return systems, and Indonesia's community-based plastic banks. These models show that combining policy, technology and community engagement is essential for success. By adopting best practices from other countries, Malaysia can enhance its efforts to protect ocean health. Conclusion As we confront the escalating plastic waste crisis, it is imperative that Malaysia takes decisive action to protect our oceans. By addressing systemic weaknesses, enhancing corporate accountability, supporting innovative solutions, and fostering government-private sector collaboration, Malaysia can play a pivotal role in the global effort to reduce plastic waste and safeguard marine environments for future generations.
NDTV
27-06-2025
- Science
- NDTV
Our Oceans Are In Trouble: Here's How To Take Action Beyond The Outrage
Our oceans are in trouble. Catches from many of the world's fisheries are declining, with some fishing practices destroying enormous areas of the sea bed. Habitat loss through coastal development threatens many coastal ecosystems including estuaries and mangroves, which are vital nurseries for many fish species. Pollution is another threat, killing animals and damaging habitats. Climate change is also affecting the ocean. Excess carbon dioxide absorbed by the ocean is making them more acidic, harming marine animals and plants. The ocean is getting warmer, coral reefs are dying and sea levels are rising. The ocean is also enjoying the most attention it has ever received. The United Nations declared this the decade of the ocean, a time to produce all the research and policy needed to inform actions and generate funding for global projects to protect and restore the oceans. Sir David Attenborough produced a new documentary called Ocean, and World Ocean Day is celebrated every year. But how does this translate into action? There is a clear disconnect between what leaders say in public forums such as United Nations conferences and what happens on the water in practice. While awareness has been raised, not enough has been done to create ways for people to take action. I've researched the ocean for 30 years, investigating how to change people's behaviour towards nature and how they learn about the ocean. I have identified key research-based interventions that would help mobilise interest and action around saving the world's seas. Humans are the cause of the oceans' problems – but humans are also the only solution. These key areas would help close the gap between understanding the problem and taking action to solve it: arming people with knowledge about the ocean community engagement with people most affected by the degradation of the ocean: people living along the coast and in small island countries and Indigenous ocean communities who rely on the oceans for their livelihoods and culture inspiring people to care for the ocean. Many people are unaware of the role of the ocean in their daily lives. From the air we breathe to the food we eat and the relatively stable climate we have enjoyed, human survival depends on a healthy ocean. Helping people to experience the ocean – in person along the coast, under the waves, in an aquarium or by watching documentary films – can ignite a spark of wonder and care for the ocean. For most of history, the ocean was regarded as a common resource from which everyone could benefit. Now it needs to be looked at as a common responsibility. We all need to care for it for our very survival. What Needs To Be Done Knowledge: Opportunities for everyone to learn about the ocean across formal and informal channels. Formal education in schools and informal communication efforts must include direct linkages between inland and the ocean. South Africa is one of the few countries in Africa to have a marine science curriculum for senior school learners to study the ocean. But this is not offered in most schools. Building an ocean literacy network made up of communication experts, educators, the media, aquariums and museums, scientists, science communicators, Indigenous leaders, communities, conservation agencies, non-profit organisations, artists and others would help generate interest and build groups of people who can come up with the best ways to talk about saving the oceans. Expertise: Enhancing ocean protection requires expertise from multiple disciplines. These include the natural sciences, marine social sciences, behavioural science, education, science communication, social-based marketing and Indigenous knowledge systems. Working together across different disciplines to develop effective strategies, researchers and communicators can work to ensure that the multiple values and services of the ocean for human well-being are widely understood. Sharing research with people through effective science communication is a vital step that is often missed. Encouragingly, more and more young scientists are eager to share their work widely. Deep community engagement: Recognising traditional and Indigenous knowledge, respecting local leadership and hearing community voices are all critical. For example, in the Western Indian Ocean, community led projects support thousands of communities and protect large areas of the coast. They work closely with fishers, empowering them to manage their own ocean resources. Individual choices matter: It is easy to blame politicians and huge corporations for many of the crises we face, and they both have a massive role to play. However, individuals also have the power to support campaigns that lobby for more marine protected areas. Reducing consumption of unsustainable seafood, single use plastics, electricity and fuel also protects the oceans. Innovative social research can reveal answers to questions about what people value and need, and find ways to increase motivation, capability, and opportunity for people to behave in ways that ensure a healthy ocean. Government action: The governments of island nations are at the forefront of the ocean crisis. They are experiencing problems caused by rising sea levels and a warming ocean and are taking action to protect oceans. Collaboration between government authorities responsible for ocean protection in the rest of the world and non-profit organisations, scientists and community members needs to be strengthened. This will ensure better cooperation and coordinated decision-making and management. For example, community supported marine protected areas benefit local people and marine life. These benefits range from improved catches from the spillover of fish into adjacent exploited areas to employment opportunities.
Yahoo
26-06-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
Our oceans are in trouble: how to move beyond the outrage and start taking real action
Our oceans are in trouble. Catches from many of the world's fisheries are declining, with some fishing practices destroying enormous areas of the sea bed. Habitat loss through coastal development threatens many coastal ecosystems including estuaries and mangroves, which are vital nurseries for many fish species. Pollution is another threat, killing animals and damaging habitats. Climate change is also affecting the ocean. Excess carbon dioxide absorbed by the ocean is making them more acidic, harming marine animals and plants. The ocean is getting warmer, coral reefs are dying and sea levels are rising. The ocean is also enjoying the most attention it has ever received. The United Nations declared this the decade of the ocean, a time to produce all the research and policy needed to inform actions and generate funding for global projects to protect and restore the oceans. Sir David Attenborough produced a new documentary called Ocean, and World Ocean Day is celebrated every year. But how does this translate into action? There is a clear disconnect between what leaders say in public forums such as United Nations conferences and what happens on the water in practice. While awareness has been raised, not enough has been done to create ways for people to take action. Read more: I've researched the ocean for 30 years, investigating how to change people's behaviour towards nature and how they learn about the ocean. I have identified key research-based interventions that would help mobilise interest and action around saving the world's seas. Humans are the cause of the oceans' problems – but humans are also the only solution. These key areas would help close the gap between understanding the problem and taking action to solve it: arming people with knowledge about the ocean community engagement with people most affected by the degradation of the ocean: people living along the coast and in small island countries and Indigenous ocean communities who rely on the oceans for their livelihoods and culture inspiring people to care for the ocean. Many people are unaware of the role of the ocean in their daily lives. From the air we breathe to the food we eat and the relatively stable climate we have enjoyed, human survival depends on a healthy ocean. Helping people to experience the ocean – in person along the coast, under the waves, in an aquarium or by watching documentary films – can ignite a spark of wonder and care for the ocean. For most of history, the ocean was regarded as a common resource from which everyone could benefit. Now it needs to be looked at as a common responsibility. We all need to care for it for our very survival. Knowledge: Opportunities for everyone to learn about the ocean across formal and informal channels. Formal education in schools and informal communication efforts must include direct linkages between inland and the ocean. South Africa is one of the few countries in Africa to have a marine science curriculum for senior school learners to study the ocean. But this is not offered in most schools. Read more: Building an ocean literacy network made up of communication experts, educators, the media, aquariums and museums, scientists, science communicators, Indigenous leaders, communities, conservation agencies, non-profit organisations, artists and others would help generate interest and build groups of people who can come up with the best ways to talk about saving the oceans. Expertise: Enhancing ocean protection requires expertise from multiple disciplines. These include the natural sciences, marine social sciences, behavioural science, education, science communication, social-based marketing and Indigenous knowledge systems. Read more: Working together across different disciplines to develop effective strategies, researchers and communicators can work to ensure that the multiple values and services of the ocean for human well-being are widely understood. Sharing research with people through effective science communication is a vital step that is often missed. Encouragingly, more and more young scientists are eager to share their work widely. Deep community engagement: Recognising traditional and Indigenous knowledge, respecting local leadership and hearing community voices are all critical. For example, in the Western Indian Ocean, community led projects support thousands of communities and protect large areas of the coast. They work closely with fishers, empowering them to manage their own ocean resources. Individual choices matter: It is easy to blame politicians and huge corporations for many of the crises we face, and they both have a massive role to play. However, individuals also have the power to support campaigns that lobby for more marine protected areas. Reducing consumption of unsustainable seafood, single use plastics, electricity and fuel also protects the oceans. Innovative social research can reveal answers to questions about what people value and need, and find ways to increase motivation, capability, and opportunity for people to behave in ways that ensure a healthy ocean. Read more: Government action: The governments of island nations are at the forefront of the ocean crisis. They are experiencing problems caused by rising sea levels and a warming ocean and are taking action to protect oceans. Collaboration between government authorities responsible for ocean protection in the rest of the world and non-profit organisations, scientists and community members needs to be strengthened. This will ensure better cooperation and coordinated decision-making and management. For example, community supported marine protected areas benefit local people and marine life. These benefits range from improved catches from the spillover of fish into adjacent exploited areas to employment opportunities. This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Judy Mann-Lang, Oceanographic Research Institute (South African Association for Marine Biological Research) Read more: The 5 biggest threats to West Africa's oceans – and what to do about them The historic High Seas Treaty is almost reality. Here's what it would mean for ocean conservation Ocean protection accounts for 10% of fish in the world's coral reefs – but we could save so much more Judy Mann-Lang works for Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation and is a co-founder of the Marine Protected Areas Day.
Web Release
17-06-2025
- Web Release
Where Culture Meets Conservation: Novotel Dubai Gold District's Art Workshop Spotlights Ocean Health
Nestled in the heart of Dubai's historic trading hub and offering direct access to some of the city's most iconic locations, Novotel Dubai Gold District is set to host a special art workshop titled 'Tides of Creativity Art Workshop' as part of its World Ocean Day initiatives. The event will take place on 20 June 2025, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m., and is open to hotel guests, with a limited number of slots available for UAE residents. Deira, Dubai's oldest cultural and commercial district, has long been a confluence of creativity, tradition, and trade; where pearl diving, textile artistry, and Arabic calligraphy once thrived, all deeply tied to the rhythms of water. In a nod to this rich heritage, the ocean-themed art workshop that bridges the city's past and present, reinforcing how culture and conservation can go hand in hand. s Organised with the support of Sanili of Art Divine in collaboration with Curator Peter Gressmann of ART-FORUM-UAE, the workshop will draw inspiration from World Ocean Day and invite participants to create artworks that reflect the ocean's vital role in sustaining life on Earth. These completed pieces will be displayed in the hotel's lobby, offering guests and visitors an opportunity to reflect on ocean health through the lens of art and heritage. Sundeep Peechara, Cluster General Manager commented: 'Collaborating with community partners to raise awareness about environmental issues is part of our broader sustainability commitment. We wanted to create something immersive, enjoyable, and impactful—something that would extend beyond a single day. Art offers a timeless medium that inspires, educates, and sparks conversation.' UAE residents interested in participating can register for one of the limited slots through this link:
