Seventy percent of our planet is covered by one huge, continuous body of seawater-the ocean. In 2008, the United Nations recognized June 8 as World Oceans Day. It’s a day to think about the important role that the oceans play in our lives, the dangers that are facing our oceans and the action we can take to protect them.

The importance of our oceans

The ocean is home to a number of animals on Earth, Marine (海洋的) plants provide us with 70% of the oxygen (氧气) we breathe. The ocean controls our climate (气候), providing heat in winter and cool air in summer. It also provides us with food and medicine. No matter where you live on the planet, your life need depend on the ocean.

The problems facing our oceans

The most serious problem facing the ocean at the moment is plastic (塑料) pollution. Cutting the use of plastic bags and plastic bottles has been an important theme for World Oceans Day for a number of years. Climate change and rising sea temperatures are also huge problems. Rising sea temperatures have something to do with the weather pattern and the increase in extreme weather conditions.

How to celebrate the day

The day is celebrated in different ways, including special events at aquariums (水族馆) and zoos, beach and river clean-ups, school activities, art contests and film festivals. 这样的活动能使人们想起海洋的重要性。