As Dr. Sylvia Earle said, the ocean is the blue heart of our planet. Covering a massive 72 percent of the Earth, the ocean provides us with life, food, jobs and is home to an abundance of amazing wildlife to say the least. So, here are just some of the reasons why the ocean is so important.

Oxygen Production

It is estimated that an incredible 70% of the World’s oxygen comes from oceans. Oxygen is produced by ocean plants such as phytoplankton and seaweed which absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen. This means that there is oxygen produced by ocean plants in every breath we take.

Climate Regulation

The ocean absorbs heat from the sun and helps to keep our planet warm. Water is continuously being evaporated from the ocean producing most of the rain that falls on land. Ocean currents also control the climate by transporting warm water from the equator to the poles and cold water from the poles to the tropics – making the world habitable for us.

Biodiversity

The ocean is home to an abundance of marine creatures and it has been estimated that there could be 700,000 to 1 million species living there – many of which are yet to be discovered in the vastness of our seas. All these creatures both big and small play an important role in keeping ocean ecosystems balanced, including keeping a healthy population of our oxygen producing marine plants.

Food

There are many edible sea creatures people rely on around the world as a source of food. For example, fish is an important source of protein for billions of people around the world accounting for 16% of animal protein consumed globally. Even algae and seaweed are used as a source of nutrients in cooking and health supplements.

Mental Health

Studies have shown that living by the sea has a positive affect on our mental health. Spending time by the ocean has a calming effect on us and reduces stress. It is also thought that the sound of waves helps relieve anxieties. As well as this, sea air is rich with oxygen which helps you fall asleep better at night.

Jobs

The ocean creates millions of jobs globally from tourism and recreation to transportation, fisheries and aquaculture. The ocean economy and peoples livelihoods also rely on the health of the oceans. This is particularly important in developing countries where at least 3 billion people rely on the sea for jobs.

These are just some of the reasons why the ocean is so important. The ocean takes care of us – keeping us alive, providing us with livelihoods and happiness. It is our responsibility to look after the oceans that we so heavily rely on….