The oceans around the world are not only beautiful, but they offer so many things for us, and yet we continue to neglect them. We should remember that 70% of the earth is surrounded by oceans. How much time can we give to protect and clean them? Can we even commit to doing what we can in our ways to contribute to saving the ocean and its inhabitants?
The truth is that the ocean is a vital part of our planet, as it plays a major role in keeping the whole ecosystem balanced and healthy. This article aims to focus on why it is important to appreciate the ocean and what the ocean offers to the future generation and us.
What Are They For?
Livelihood. A lot of industries then and now have relied on the oceans as a source of income and recreation. Fishermen, passenger and cargo ships, and tourism have earned substantial amounts of money from transporting products and services because of these oceans, and it is only right that we give back by keeping them clean.
They Have Residents. They’re not there only for sightseeing. Yes, they are more than a hundred trillion cubic miles of water, but different kinds of species reside in the oceans as well. Fish, crab, shrimp, corals, and other plants and animals inhabit the oceans, all of which are significantly beneficial to the lives of humans. So if they are compromised, then we will be too. “Everywhere there is interdependence,” says Jonathan Balcombe, Ph.D.
Food. All of us eat protein, and the ocean is the biggest source of protein in the world. We love our grilled fish, tuna flakes, and juicy prawns, and they are present in most people’s meals across the world. These protein sources must have a clean, safe, and healthy habitat.
Modern Medicine. Sea plants and other inhabitants are continually utilized for clinical trials that are expected to answer thousands of medical queries. Algae, seaweeds, and other aquatic species are also being experimented and used to cure specific diseases and to further improve the technology in medicine. There are many, many more undiscovered knowledge in the oceans that are worth unraveling. Let’s not let them die.
Oxygen Is Not Optional. Have you tried taking a deep breath in while you’re facing the beach? That’s the much-needed oxygen coming in, and the carbon dioxide going out when we exhale. If you still didn’t know, half of that oxygen you’re breathing in is produced in the oceans. Subsequently, it also plays a major role in absorbing carbon dioxide. “The current increase in global temperature has been accompanied by increased algal blooms in the ocean, which could increase cloud cover and sequester excess carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, exerting a restraining force on further temperature rises,” says Eric Haseltine, Ph.D. So let’s change the mindset that only trees should be praised for their oxygen-producing capacity.
Earth’s Protector. Practically everything either starts or ends with the ocean. Much of the sun’s heat and valor are stored in the oceans, and consequently, it is distributed throughout the world. Part of the type of weather we have daily is because of the ocean. Heated water from the ocean evaporates into the sky to form rains and clouds. The islands and reefs protect the coastlines from calamities. The ocean holds us together.
Takeaway
So what are the oceans for? These and many, many more reasons that are enough for not only to be aware subconsciously but we must consciously take action and do what we can to help prevent further abuse, pollution, and damage in our oceans. “A multidisciplinary approach is necessary including consideration of engineering, political action, and public awareness ,” says Michelle Maidenberg, Ph.D. We must start today because if we don’t, we’re giving up all these wonderful essential things our environment provides, such as the benefits of nature to mental health that all humankind is taking advantage of.