World Oceans Day 2026

On World Oceans Day 2026, the United Nations Environment Programme invites governments, finance leaders, innovators, regional organizations and ocean champions to explore one of the defining challenges of our time: how do we turn ocean ambition into real-world transformation? Join us on:

• Date: 8 June 2026
• Time:  3:00 to 4:30 PM
• Location: Online, register here

The Ocean is at the heart of life on Earth: our food, our climate, our economies, and the well-being of billions of people worldwide, all depend on Ocean and its health. 

Yet pollution, unsustainable development, weak cooperation, and limited financing continue to place growing pressure on marine and coastal ecosystems. These challenges require stronger partnerships, long-term investment, and practical solutions that countries can sustain over time. 

If many efforts are yet to be done, the world is now responding.  

Countries have made bold commitments. Regional frameworks are in place. Science and financing tools are stronger than ever. It is now time to build on that foundation and tostrengthen regional cooperation to turn ocean commitments into real results. 

This World Oceans Day webinar brings together policymakers, global and regional organizations, financial institutions, and technical experts to explore practical ways to strengthen ocean protection, resilience, and investment through cooperation, science, and partnerships. 

Key themes 

1. Strengthening regional cooperation How the Regional Seas Conventions and Action Plans work with countries to protect shared marine ecosystems and support global ocean commitments. 

2. Reducing pollution through source-to-sea action How action on wastewater, pollution, runoff, and marine litter can improve ocean health from rivers and coastlines to the open ocean. 

3. Using science and data to support better decisions How monitoring, reporting, and data systems strengthen transparency, build confidence, and support long-term ocean resilience. 

4. Supporting investment in coastal ecosystems How coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrasses can attract public and private investment while supporting coastal communities and sustainable ocean economies. 

5. Turning commitments into action How stronger partnerships, governance, and financing can help countries deliver real progress for ocean protection and resilience.