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When Youth Lead, Our Ocean Wins: World Ocean Day 2026 Set to be Biggest Yet
TASMANIA, AUS – May 2026 – On the 8th of June, people worldwide will unite for World Ocean Day to
celebrate the ocean that connects and sustains us all. With the ocean, climate, and biodiversity crises
growing more urgent, young leaders are emerging as powerful voices for the blue planet.
This year’s event is expected to be the largest ever, building on thousands of events across 178 countries in
2025.
“World Ocean Day is more than a once-a-year celebration, it’s an opportunity to build momentum and
strengthen commitment to protecting these vital yet all too often out-of-sight, out-of-mind marine
ecosystem.” – Dekota Mark, Australia, World Ocean Day Coordinator 2026
At the heart of the movement is the World Ocean Day Youth Advisory Council – 24 young changemakers
from 21 countries shaping the future for a healthy ocean and a stable climate.
“The ocean belongs to everyone, whether you live by the shore or deep inland… our ocean’s health depends
on the actions we take now.” – Jeremiah Ugochukwu, 21, Democratic Republic of Congo
Launched in 2016, the Council now counts 173 members and alumni from 75 countries who organize
community actions, advocate for policy change, and inspire year-round engagement.
“Youth ocean advocacy brings urgency, innovation, and accountability to environmental decision-making.” –
Ilona Mayerau-Lonné, 23, New Caledonia
The movement is growing, with young people around the world turning awareness into action.
“When young voices rise for the ocean, hope stops being an idea and starts becoming a movement!” – Ava
Havidic, 19, United States
About World Ocean Day
Officially recognized by the United Nations since 2008. The Ocean Project has been globally building
momentum for the day since 2002, World Ocean Day mobilizes youth, NGOs, businesses, schools, and
governments each 8th of June and year-round. The ocean regulates the climate, produces over half the
oxygen we breathe, and sustains life on Earth.
WorldOceanDay.org serves as a central hub for free resources, events, and inspiration to help individuals and organizations take action for the ocean and climate year-round. Follow @WorldOceanDay on Instagram, X, Facebook, and LinkedIn.
Thank you to the generous World Ocean Day 2025 Sponsors who make this all possible!
One Ocean, One Climate, One Future – Together