

World Oceans Day is celebrated each year in June (usually on June 8). The United Nations hosts this event to raise awareness about the ocean and its importance to our planet.
Why is the ocean important?
We live on a blue planet: The ocean covers 70% of Earth’s surface.
Life began in the ocean over 3.5 billion years ago. The ocean is home to fascinating lifeforms, living in habitats as varied as coral reefs, the frigid waters of the Southern Ocean, and even deep, dark marine trenches. Scientists estimate that 90% of marine species are yet to be discovered!
The ocean supplies oxygen for us to breathe. It stores carbon and helps regulate the climate. It provides us with resources like food and medicine. It is where we play and have fun.

Visit NOAA to learn about the ocean
Resources on oceans and ocean creatures from Mongabay Kids
Learn about oceans and coral reefs:

- lesson: learn about rainforests and coral reefs
- lesson: ocean prognosis
- lesson: coral reef solutions
- news article: coastal forests are important to coral reefs
- article: dugongs and turtles help seagrasses grow, and this is important
- news article: old buses gain new life in plan to help Sri Lanka’s fish
- news article: seals help scientists study the Southern Ocean
- news article: tiger shark news
Challenge yourself to the coral reef quiz!
Help keep our oceans clean
Dispose of waste carefully. Do not pollute waterways. Organize a cleanup.
