On June 8, Vancouver-based conservation group Ocean Wise is setting sail with a fresh campaign for World Ocean Day encouraging people to #BeOceanWise and focus on turning the tide with small actions!
Making a significant impact doesn't require drastic changes. Simple, conscious decisions, such as avoiding single-use plastics or selecting sustainable seafood, can lead to substantial widespread change through collective effort.
What does it mean to be Ocean Wise?
Best known for its sustainable seafood labels and shoreline cleanups, Ocean Wise has long focused on bridging science and everyday behaviour. This summer, the organization is highlighting local changemakers — teachers, small business owners, families and artists — who are quietly driving positive change in their communities.
“We’re sharing their stories to show that anyone can have an impact,” says Ocean Wise CEO, Lasse Gustavsson. “You don’t have to be a marine biologist or a full-time activist. You just have to care — and take one step.”
From rising sea levels to plastic pollution, the scale of the climate crisis can feel paralyzing. Ocean Wise wants to challenge that mindset with a campaign grounded in optimism and everyday solutions.
“This campaign is really about taking that feeling of despair and making something positive out of it,” says Gustavsson. “There’s power in doing something — even small things — because it builds momentum and a sense of purpose.”
That could mean using reusable containers, shopping at ocean-friendly businesses, joining a beach cleanup or downloading the Ocean Wise whale report app to report whale sightings to prevent ship strikes. The goal is to show that individual choices matter — and they can inspire others to follow suit.
Events and resources
In the week leading up to World Ocean Day on June 8, Ocean Wise is joining ocean lovers across the country for Ocean Week Canada, a public celebration of the ocean from coast to coast to coast.
Right here in Vancouver this will include Ocean Wise Shoreline Cleanups, public art installations and educational workshops.
Special highlights include a World Ocean Day celebration in Stanley Park, an interactive marine science pop-up at Science World, and virtual programs for classrooms across the country.. Events can be found on the Ocean Week Canada website at www.oceanweekcan.ca.
For those unable to attend in person,Ocean Wise offers practical tips and actions that can be done from home or in local communities — no oceanfront view required. Online resources, including how-to guides and stories from changemakers across Canada, will be available at www.ocean.org.
More than a moment
Be part of the change this World Ocean Day. On June 8, join Ocean Wise, the Vancouver Aquarium, Stanley Park Ecology Society and Water Rangers for a day of hands-on activities, including a Shoreline Cleanup, water quality testing and a BioBlitz! For more Ocean Week Canada events in your community visit oceanweekcan.ca.
Whether you're a longtime ocean advocate or just beginning your journey, this free event offers a chance to connect with like-minded individuals and make a tangible impact. Your participation is a step toward a healthier ocean and a brighter future for all. Don't miss out—RSVP now to be part of this inspiring community event.
