The DCC-CR Celebrates World Oceans Day 2023

June 8th marks World Oceans Day, a time to appreciate the beauty of our seas while acknowledging the concerning changes they are facing. The DCC-CR actively contributes to finding solutions for the future of our oceans.

Our oceans are incredibly diverse, mysterious, and influential in our lives. They harbor ancient creatures and hold the history of our planet. The exact number of species residing in our seas remains unknown, and we have only explored less than 10% of their vast waters. Oceans play a vital role in regulating our climate and impacting the weather on land.

To honor all these aspects, the global community comes together every year on June 8th to celebrate World Ocean Day. It serves as a reminder of the vital connection we share with our seas. Today, numerous organizations, governments, and associations organize events and initiatives to bring oceans into the spotlight, share essential knowledge about their current state, and raise awareness about ways to contribute to their protection.

Year by year, it becomes increasingly important to reflect on the condition of our oceans. Climate change poses a threat to the ecosystems that have sustained life and contributed to a healthy planet for centuries. This endangers not only the species and underwater landscapes but also our cities and our very existence. As sea levels rise, storms intensify, and coastal erosion accelerates, communities and nations must implement robust strategies to adapt and respond to these challenges.

This lies at the heart of our mission. The Decade Collaborative Centre for Coastal Resilience aims to leverage ocean science by introducing innovative solutions and tools to communities worldwide. We strive for the sustainable development of coasts, cities, and lives. Our activities encompass educational workshops, scientific symposiums, and policy discussions. By sharing knowledge, exchanging best practices, and fostering collaboration, experts and stakeholders come together to enhance the resilience of coastal areas.

The profound transformations occurring in our oceans should be viewed as a call to action and an opportunity to reconsider our relationship with the environment, particularly the oceans. Implementing projects and initiatives like citizen science not only empower communities to be part of the change but also allow people to engage directly with the ecosystem they inhabit and become stewards of their home.

As we commemorate World Ocean Day, let us collectively acknowledge the vital role our oceans play in sustaining life and recognize the urgent need for action to make our coasts more resilient. By committing to the safeguarding of our coasts, we can ensure the well-being of both present and future generations, fostering a healthier planet for all.

In the following video, DCC-CR Director Nadia Pinardi illustrates the importance of this day, and the work the community needs to carry out to overcome the grand challenge of our time.