World Aquatic Animal Day
Since 2020, every April 3rd has been celebrated as World Aquatic Animal Day–a day that highlights the importance of aquatic life and the numerous threats these animals face. Aquatic animals not only from the ocean, but also from rivers and lakes are celebrated and recognized for their essential roles in the planet’s health.
These creatures ranging from fish, mammals, invertebrates, etc. all play an important role in maintaining the marine food web and ecosystems. Furthermore, they are also vital for ecosystem health, support biodiversity, and hold cultural and social significance to local communities.
However, aquatic animals are increasingly at risk due to human activities, such as overfishing, pollution, and the destruction of their natural habitats. This day serves as a reminder of the urgent need to protect these animals and their environments. Climate change, ocean acidification, and plastic pollution are among the many challenges they face. One hundred million marine animals die each year from plastic waste alone.
Well, you may wonder, what can I do? Individuals and communities can take action in the protection of these animals by reducing plastic waste, supporting sustainable fisheries, and volunteering!
At the Coastal Corridor Alliance, we recognize the critical role ecosystems play in sustaining aquatic life, and we’re dedicated to preserving these vital coastal habitats. Each month, on the 4th Saturday, we host a beach cleanup event: an opportunity for you to actively contribute to protecting both aquatic animals and their environments.
By working together, we can help ensure that these species thrive for generations to come, while also safeguarding the health of the planet for future generations. Register for the Beach Cleanup!
Work Cited:
- European Wilderness Society. (2024, April 3). World Aquatic Animal Day.
https://wilderness-society.org/world-aquatic-animal-day-2/ - How can you help our ocean? (n.d.).
https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/ocean/help-our-ocean.html - International Fund for Animal Welfare. (2024, February 27). Five of the biggest threats to life in the ocean. IFAW.
https://www.ifaw.org/journal/five-biggest-threats-to-ocean - MarineBio Conservation. (n.d.). Ocean resources.
https://www.marinebio.org/conservation/ocean-dumping/ocean-resources/ - International Fund for Animal Welfare. (2024, February 27). Five of the biggest threats to life in the ocean. IFAW.
https://www.ifaw.org/journal/five-biggest-threats-to-ocean - How can you help our ocean? (n.d.).
https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/ocean/help-our-ocean.html - Central Asia Climate Portal. (n.d.). World Aquatic Animal Day.
https://centralasiaclimateportal.org/event/world-aquatic-animal-day/
