Hi,

As we celebrate World Oceans Day, we are reminded of the vital importance of our oceans. Coastal regions, home to 12 of the world's 15 largest cities and 40% of the global population, support an ocean economy worth over $1.5 trillion annually.¹ Oceans and their ecosystems are crucial for maintaining our climate. They absorb over 90% of excess heat and 30% of human-induced CO₂ emissions.

Now, more than ever, our oceans are in danger due to an ever-increasing threat: plastic pollution. Studies report that at least 14 million tons of plastic end up in the ocean every year; harming marine species through ingestion and entanglement.² This plastic pollution poses direct risks to humans including: threats to food safety and quality, human health, and coastal tourism, while also contributing to climate change. 

It is abundantly clear: When the oceans are at risk, our livelihoods are at stake. We must act now, not only for our present, but also to allow future generations to celebrate World Oceans Day by safeguarding the aquatic wildlife and coastal communities.  

To help protect and preserve the world’s oceans, donate to support EARTHDAY.ORG. Your donation will help us extend our impact through initiatives such as the Great Global Cleanup, which organizes local cleanups worldwide by uniting governments, citizens, and businesses to combat pollution. We are also fighting for an effective Global Plastics Treaty and advocating for legislation that mandates reductions in plastic production worldwide.³ Your support is crucial in tackling both local pollution and the larger systemic issue of plastic use.

We are stronger together. Join us in the ongoing battle against plastic pollution to safeguard the future of our oceans and to continue the momentum of Earth Day 2024 — Planet vs. Plastics.

Together,

Kathleen Rogers
President

Footnotes:

1. United Nations Environment Programme: https://www.unep.org/topics/ocean-seas-and-coasts

2. International Union for Conservation of Nature: https://www.iucn.org/sites/default/files/2024-04/marine-plastic-pollution-issues-brief_nov21-april-2024-small-update_0.pdf

3. EARTHDAY.ORG: https://action.earthday.org/global-plastics-treaty