About World Oceans Day
World Oceans Day is observed on 8 June. Officially recognised by the United Nations in 2008, it celebrates the ocean's role in supporting life on Earth and encourages people to protect it from pollution and overuse.
The idea of a World Oceans Day was proposed at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro in 1992. After years of informal observance, the UN General Assembly officially recognised 8 June as World Oceans Day in 2008.
The ocean covers most of our planet. It produces much of the oxygen we breathe, regulates the climate and supports fisheries that feed and employ millions of people. It faces serious threats from plastic pollution, overfishing, warming and rising acidity.
How it is marked
People join beach and river clean-ups, cut down on single-use plastic and learn about marine life. Aquariums, schools and conservation groups hold talks, film screenings and art projects. Coastal communities share how they depend on the sea for food and work.
In India, with its long coastline and many island territories, the day is often marked with beach clean-ups in coastal cities and awareness drives by fisheries departments, schools and marine conservation groups.
What to write
Keep your message fresh and hopeful, with a nudge towards less plastic.
- Happy World Oceans Day. Beach clean-up this Sunday morning, and vada pav after is on me.
- Every bottle we skip is one less in the sea. Carrying my steel one all week, promise.
- To my favourite beach buddy, missing our evening walks by the sea. Come home soon.
How to wish someone on World Oceans Day
love for the sea and coasts, and simple choices that keep oceans clean and full of life
Write a few lines in your own words, pick a design and share it as one link on WhatsApp, Instagram or anywhere else. They open an animated card made just for them, with no app and no sign-up.
Language tip: English, Hindi + recipient language.
Frequently asked questions
Why is World Oceans Day on 8 June?
The idea was proposed at the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, and the UN General Assembly officially recognised 8 June as World Oceans Day in 2008.
Why are oceans important?
Oceans produce much of the oxygen we breathe, help regulate the climate and provide food and livelihoods for millions of people around the world.
How can I help protect the ocean?
Reduce single-use plastic, join a beach or river clean-up, choose seafood carefully, and never leave litter near the shore or in drains that flow to the sea.
When is World Oceans Day in 2026?
World Oceans Day 2026 falls on Monday, 8 June 2026.
What is World Oceans Day?
World Oceans Day is observed on 8 June. Officially recognised by the United Nations in 2008, it celebrates the ocean's role in supporting life on Earth and encourages people to protect it from pollution and overuse.
Is World Oceans Day a public holiday?
Holiday status for World Oceans Day varies by state, employer and community in India, so check your local holiday list.
How do I wish someone on World Oceans Day?
Focus on love for the sea and coasts, and simple choices that keep oceans clean and full of life. On Kehdoo you can write a short message, pick a design and share a free animated World Oceans Day card as a single link, with no app or sign-up needed.
Sources
Last verified by the Kehdoo team on .