World Oceans Day: Local Action for Global Impact
Every June 8 we celebrate World Oceans Day, a key date to remind ourselves that the ocean is not only the blue lung of the planet but also the foundation of millions of human and animal lives. In 2025, Eco-Bahia marked the occasion with a marine cleanup at Playa Aventuras DIF, Mexico, reaffirming its commitment to protecting marine ecosystems and raising environmental awareness.
The activity was organized by our Environmental Education and Natural Areas Conservation Program, with the active participation of staff, volunteers, guests, and the valuable support of Scubaquatic.
The ocean:
• Generates more than 50% of the oxygen we breathe.
• Regulates the global climate.
• Absorbs vast amounts of CO₂.
• Sustains the livelihoods of more than 3 billion people.
Yet today, it faces severe threats such as plastic pollution, overfishing, acidification, and climate change—rapidly degrading this critical ecosystem.
This year, the UN calls on us to reflect and act under this theme. Through the Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development, the goal is to mobilize the knowledge required to achieve SDG 14: Life Below Water, which promotes the sustainable and responsible use of the oceans and their resources.
During the cleanup, 3.65 kg of waste were collected directly from the beach and ocean, including:
• Cigarette butts
• Plastic bottle caps
• PET bottles
• Nurdles (microplastics)
• Disposable cups
• Shoes and even metal pieces
In addition, the team assisted beach staff in sorting an additional 10 kg of waste, reinforcing the educational and participatory focus of the activity.
The initiative not only had a direct environmental impact but also strengthened environmental education and shared responsibility. Every cigarette butt removed, every microplastic detected, is an opportunity to raise awareness and inspire behavior change among tourists, staff, and local communities.
At Eco-Bahia, we believe that protecting the ocean means protecting ourselves. Every action matters, and this beach cleanup is just one example of the ongoing work we do to conserve, educate, and act for a sustainable future.
Because the ocean cannot wait. And neither can we.
Recycled Paper Workshop in Playa del Carmen
Eco-Bahia Drives Marine Conservation in Riviera Maya