World Environment Day and World Oceans Day

Ocean Pollution: On June 5th, a convergence occurred on a global scale as individuals from every corner of the world united in commemoration of World Environment Day. This annual event serves as a poignant reminder of our shared duty to safeguard and foster our precious planet.

Whether amidst the bustling metropolises or in the far-flung reaches of secluded villages, people, communities, and organizations joined hands, bound by their unwavering dedication to preserving the environment and championing sustainable practices.

Simultaneously, on June 8th, a momentous occasion unfolded across the globe: World Oceans Day. With its distinct focus, this noteworthy event amplifies the profound significance of the oceans in sustaining life on Earth.

The amazing synchronization observed in these global commemorations goes beyond chance; it stands as a magnificent confirmation of the delicate interdependence of the ecosystem and our oceans.

The health and prosperity of our planet’s vast marine domains have a tremendous impact on the overall condition of our surroundings, with ocean health closely connected with environmental vibrancy.

The Plastic Crisis and Marine Pollution

In the current year, authorities have voiced their perspectives regarding the pervasive plastic presence within our oceans and the consequential environmental predicaments it engenders. In addition, their efforts have brought forth awareness within the global community regarding the destructive consequences of marine pollution, emphasizing its significant influence on the overall welfare of our planet.

But unfortunately, the oceans are not only facing this pollution but many other problems are no less than a threat to humanity. Japan’s choice to discharge nuclear-contaminated water into the Atlantic Ocean presents a singular concern.

Rising Ocean Temperatures: A Global Concern

Also of great significance is a study showing that global ocean temperatures are reaching new records as the year 2022 was the hottest year in recorded human history.

Recently published in the esteemed international journal Advances in Atmospheric Sciences are the outcomes of an innovative investigation, spearheaded by a cooperative group consisting of 24 scientists originating from 16 institutions spanning across China, the United States, and Italy.

A researcher at the Institute of Atmospheric Physics under the Chinese Academy of Sciences said that the upper 2,000 meters of Earth’s oceans have absorbed a large amount of heat compared to 2021.

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Ocean pollution and marine debris

The significance of Earth’s oceanic temperature as a pivotal metric for gauging climate change cannot be overstated. Vast and immeasurable, the oceanic realms dutifully absorb over 90% of the surplus heat generated by the phenomenon of global warming.

This absorption phenomenon provides solid proof of the ongoing global warming issue. Surprisingly, a troubling trend has evolved in recent years, in which ocean temperature records have been continuously surpassed, year after year, since the year 2017. 

The seas’ delayed response to the consequences of global warming is one noticeable feature. Consequently, the ongoing upward trajectory of ocean temperatures is projected to persist over numerous decades, eliciting apprehensions regarding the long-term implications of climate change.

Their findings have indicated a discernible escalation in salinity levels within regions characterized by high salinity, while conversely, areas with low salinity have experienced a contrasting pattern.

The repercussions of warming waters extend far beyond mere temperature alterations. Their collective actions fuel the swelling of sea levels, expedite the onset of severe climatic phenomena, and amplify the regularity and potency of tempests.

Additionally, the capacity of warmer oceans to absorb greenhouse gas, specifically carbon dioxide, is compromised. The waning effectiveness paves the way for carbon dioxide to amass in the atmosphere, intensifying the occurrence of anthropogenic climate change.

Japan’s Nuclear Water Discharge: An Emerging Threat

Simultaneously, the global community expresses deep concern regarding Japan’s recent proposal to discharge nuclear-contaminated water into the Atlantic Ocean.

Starting from April 2021, the Japanese government has joined forces with the Tokyo Electric Power Company to diligently prepare for the impending release of contaminated water originating from the Fukushima nuclear incident, intending to discharge it into the ocean.

This development has prompted significant concern and debate about the potential ramifications and environmental impact of such a release. The implementation of this project is going to start soon, which is increasing the concern of the people about the marine environment and related food security.

The fallout from the Fukushima nuclear power plant has not yet ended. A majority of local people are opposed to the release of nuclear-contaminated water into the sea due to serious concerns about pollution in the entire marine area, including damage to fisheries and agriculture.

This course of action has evoked a considerable amount of discontent among the local inhabitants, giving rise to a sequence of over 30 protests up to this point. The projected duration of disposal of Japan’s nuclear waste surpasses three decades.

A multitude of radionuclides present in the contaminated water from the Fukushima nuclear disaster has raised apprehension among adept professionals in the field. Alarming enough, the lack of effective technologies to manage many of these radionuclides currently poses potentially unpredictable hazards to both the marine ecosystem and human well-being.

Presenting a case for Japan’s choice, advocates assert that prior to release into the ocean, the nuclear-tainted water will undergo a filtration procedure.

Nevertheless, a consensus among the majority of marine and aquatic experts concludes that despite the implementation of the filtration process, it will fall short of completely eradicating the harmful health consequences inherent in the water. Consequently, serious consequences are anticipated for marine life, and these consequences will inevitably impact human existence.

The Call for Global Unity and Action

Amidst this complex and challenging situation, a crucial question emerges: Will the world opt to safeguard its interests by remaining fragmented and divided, or will it take swift and decisive action to preserve the oceans, aquatic life, and humanity as a whole? Its potential to address the pressing concerns at hand remains a topic of contemplation and discussion.

During this intricate and challenging situation, an imperative quandary arises, presenting the world with a pivotal choice that will shape the future. Shall the world opt for self-interest and maintain its fragmented and divided state, or will it rise above and swiftly undertake resolute measures to safeguard the oceans, aquatic life, and the entirety of humanity? 

It was in September of the preceding year when Chinese President Xi Jinping unveiled a groundbreaking solution to address this global crisis (The Global Development Initiative). This visionary program was meticulously crafted to align with prevailing trends and cater to the diverse demands of all involved parties.

Yet, its true efficacy in tackling the grave challenges that lie before us remains a subject of intense contemplation and spirited debate. Maritime connectivity and cooperation in various sectors are key drivers and focal points for economic and social development. 

Oceans nurture life, contain resources, and connect the world, providing an important platform for promoting sustainable development. Various challenges such as an increase in All these problems can be solved not by the unilateral efforts of any country, but by the joint action of the international community.