~ Save the Oceans ~

World Ocean Day occurs on June 8th and reminds us of the importance of the ocean in our everyday lives. There is no question the oceans provide us with recreation and beauty. They are also essential for life.

Some Important Facts about the Oceans

• They supply over 50 % of the oxygen we breathe.
• They store 50% more carbon dioxide than the atmosphere does.
• They are the major source of food for the world’s populations
• They provide green energy through tidal turbines and dams
• They provide essential medicines, including ones that fight heart disease and cancer.
• They are the major way goods and foods are transported around the world.

With particles of plastic being found in the deepest part of the oceans, with depletion of traditional fisheries, and with the dying of coral reefs, we need to act now to save our oceans and our earth.

Great Books for World Oceans Day

Here is a list of wonderful books about the ocean that will inspire children (and adults) to take action to protect and care for our oceans.

The Brilliant Deep: Rebuilding the World’s Coral Reefs by Kate Messner [elementary]

Ken Nedimyer and his efforts to save the coral reef provide a strong role model of how one person can make a difference.

A Hole in the Bottom of the Sea by Jessica Law, Jill McDonald, and The Flannery Brothers [Preschool-Lower elementary]

Using the traditional folksong, the authors present the ocean food chain in a way young children can comprehend. The playful illustrations and catchy song lyrics of this interactive singalong teach children about the ocean’s food chain.

I Can Save the Ocean!: The Little Green Monster Cleans Up the Beach (Little Green Books) by Alison Inches (Author), Viviana Garofoli (Illustrator) [Preschool-Lower elementary]

The title character, Little Green Monster, leaves a mess on the beach and then learns from his new sea creature friends how he has harmed the ocean. Ashamed, he goes on a clean up spree and learns how to be environmentally aware.

Tracking Trash: Flotsam, Jetsam, and the Science of Ocean Motion by Loree Griffin Burns [Upper elementary-middle school]

An excellent introduction to ocean pollution, this delves into the research of oceanographer Dr. Curtis Ebbesmeyer’s research on ocean currents.

Manfish: A Story of Jacques Cousteau by Jennifer Berne [elementary]

This picture book biography celebrates Jacques Cousteau and his dedication to conserving the oceans.

Save the Ocean by Bethany Stahl [Preschool-Lower Elementary]

A mermaid and a sea turtle travel the ocean and discover the importance of recycling.

What a Waste: Trash, Recycling, and Protecting our Planet by Jess French  [Upper Elementary-Middle School]

Full of facts presented in a well-designed, colorful format, this book will both raise awareness for how we are affecting the oceans (and planet) and also inspire students to research deeper and take action.

Find more TPN recommended books about addressing pollution: Happy Earth Day: A Focus on Plastic

Take Action

Marine Conservation Institute

Mirpuri Foundation

Ocean Conservancy

Rethink Plastic

We’d love to hear from you.

Share a beautiful thought about our oceans or an idea you have to help save them.