National
Ocean Month is a cause for celebration.
I know, of course, it's possible that I'm a little biased.
Here at NOS, our ocean celebration lasts throughout the month of June
as we share ocean videos, facts, trivia, and ways
you can help the ocean on our website and social media channels.
And we certainly have a lot to celebrate.
Our ocean is an incredible body of water.
Our ocean plays a monumental role
in the lives of everyone on our planet, no matter where you live.
The ocean is fundamental to all life on Earth.
It produces over half the world's oxygen, it regulates our weather
and climate patterns, and it contains over 96% of the planet's water.
The ocean is a provider;
as a major source of raw materials for the goods we use every day,
including food and other items at your local grocery store.
It supports tourism and recreation opportunities for the millions
of people who spend time at our shores and coastal areas.
The ocean is a protector.
Coral reefs and coastal ecosystems like mangroves and marshes
shield our coastlines from storms and erosion.
The ocean is an economic engine.
It drives our economy by producing billions of dollars in goods and services,
and it supports millions of jobs.
At NOS the work we do every day supports the health and wellness
of our ocean, Great Lakes and coastal areas,
along with the communities that depend
on these environments for their homes and livelihoods.
Follow us on social media and discover the positive impacts
you can make to help protect
and care for the health of the ocean, marine environments, and coastlines.
Look for the hashtag #OceanMonthNOAA.
That's #OceanMonthNOAA.