Environment of the Sea

World Ocean Day - June 8, 2008

World Ocean Day has been recognized since 1992 as a way of raising consciousness of the important connection between the oceans and people. As we recognize this day in 2007, there can be no doubt that the world’s oceans are in trouble as a result of over-fishing, nutrient runoff, invasive species, the loss of coastal wetlands, pollution and climate change, among other things.

The oceans have played an especially important role in the lives of every member of the CCA. On the occasion of this year’s World Ocean Day, the Environment of the Sea Committee would like to suggest that each member of the CCA take a few moments to focus on the sense of stewardship each of us ought to have with respect to the oceans and in the days ahead commit to getting personally involved during the next year in some activity related to protecting our oceans. The possibilities are numerous. By way of example, last Fall the San Francisco Station made a modest contribution to sponsor a clean-up team as part of the Ocean Conservancy’s 2006 International Coastal Cleanup. Any of the many organizations which seek to protect our oceans would welcome your support and involvement.

The problems facing the oceans are enormous, but it is remarkable how much can be accomplished by many people taking small steps. Please take one such step soon.

Bill Foss
Chair