June 8th marks UN World Oceans Day, a time to celebrate one of our planet’s most important natural wonders. Our oceans are home to most of the Earth’s biodiversity. However, human activities such as pollution, overfishing, and climate change threaten the health of our oceans and the livelihoods of coastal communities. This year’s theme is “Planet Ocean: Tides Are Changing,” and the United Nations is teaming up with decision-makers, scientists, private sector executives, civil society representatives, indigenous communities, and youth activists to put oceans as a top priority in the world’s agenda.
Take some time to learn more about our oceans and register for the live broadcast of the World Oceans Day 2023 event. The event will feature speakers such as UN Secretary-General António Guterres, marine biology legend Dr. Sylvia Earle, and ocean advocate actor Jason Momoa.
At KAUST, we will be hosting a day of engagement and outreach activities for the local community, demonstrating how our research contributes to the protection of shared aquatic ecosystems and the advancement of SDG 14: Life Below Water. Community members will also have the opportunity to express their creativity through dedicated arts activities. Let’s come together to prioritize the ocean and ensure a sustainable future for our planet.
Events:
RSRC Open House
Time: 2-4 pm
Location: Building 2, Level 2, Sea side (open area)
The Red Sea Research Center invites you to its Open House. Come and join the center’s research scientists and students in a diverse showcase of ocean research and many other engaging activities.
Painting our Ocean, Together
Time: 10 am – 3 pm
Location: Building 2, Level 2, Room 2286 (at the spine)
Join a unique and exciting experience where you can express your creativity and love for the ocean! At this event, you can participate in the creation of a collective painting by recycling conference posters. All necessary materials will be provided, so feel free to stop by anytime and make your contribution to a unique collaborative artwork celebrating World Oceans Day!
Celebrating Corals
As part of CORDAP’s #TeamCoral campaign, meet Elena Granato, an artist living at KAUST whose creativity is fueled by the beauty and freedom of the ocean and the Red Sea coral reefs. Through her art, Elena hopes to inspire others to take action and help preserve the beauty of our oceans for generations to come. #TeamCoral are advocates helping in the fight to save corals by increasing awareness of the problem, working on solutions, showcasing their beauty, or being one of the scientists driving innovation and conservation forwards.
Do corals inspire you? Find out more and join #TeamCoral.
This celebration is brought to you by the Red Sea Research Center, Students for Sustainability, the Arts Perspective group, G20 CORDAP -Coral Research & Development Accelerator Platform, and the Office of Sustainability.