In 2008, the United Nations General Assembly decided that, as from 2009, 8 June would be designated by the United Nations as “World Oceans Day” (Resolution 63/111, paragraph 171).

Many countries in world have celebrated World Oceans Day following the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development, which was held in Rio de Janeiro in 1992.

For ages, the oceans have taken care of us. However our ocean and its resources are deteriorating and depleting as it faces increasing pressure from various types of pollution and over-exploitation. Business as usual scenarios for CO2 emissions could make the ocean up to 150% more acidic by 2100, placing the entire food chain and key ecosystems such as coral reefs under threat.

For ourselves and all who follow, the time has clearly come for us to take care of the sea.

The oceans are essential to food security and the health and survival of all life, power our climate and are a critical part of the biosphere. The official designation of World Oceans Day is an opportunity to raise global awareness of the current challenges faced by the international community in connection with the oceans.

2015 World Oceans Day is a time to celebrate our common treasure. As a Small Island Nation Ocean Resources are very important to us and we depend on ocean resources. It is our duty to protect ocean resources for future generations. Marine Environment Protection Authority is mandated agency for prevention of marine pollution in Sri Lankan waters and protect marine resources. With the objective of above, Sri Lanka will be celebrating this year's World Oceans Day under the Theme of “Healthy Ocean, Healthy Planet”.