World Oceans Day is celebrated annually on June 8th, to raise awareness about the importance of the ocean and its conservation. As Australia's Home of Seafood, we understand the crucial role that the ocean plays in providing us with delicious and nutritious food.  

At Sydney Fish Market, we are passionate about celebrating the ocean and its bounty while also taking steps to protect it for future generations. In this article, we'll share some ways that you can celebrate World Oceans Day and help to conserve our planet's precious marine resources. 
 

1. Choose Responsibly-Sourced Seafood 

One of the best ways that seafood-lovers can support the ocean is by choosing responsibly-sourced seafood, which for us, means choosing Australian. Australian fisheries are some of the best managed in the world, and our local product is caught or farmed in ways that minimise harm to the environment, and carefully protect the long-term health of fish populations.  

When you visit Sydney Fish Market, look for Australian product to ensure that you're choosing responsibly-sourced options. You can also ask our retailers' expert fishmongers for advice on the most sustainable seafood choices. 

Curious about what 'responsible sourcing' means? Check out Sydney Fish Market's four responsible sourcing principles here.  

2. Learn About Ocean Conservation 

Another way to celebrate World Oceans Day is by educating yourself about ocean conservation. Our Behind the Scenes Tours help visitors understand the importance of sustainable fishing practices and Australia's robust fisheries management systems, as well as teaching you how to make more responsible seafood choices. Book a tour here to learn more. 

3. Reduce Your Plastic Use 

Plastic pollution is one of the biggest threats to the ocean's health, with an estimated 8 million metric tons of plastic entering the ocean each year. The Australian seafood industry is working hard to reduce plastic usage in our supply chains; Sydney Fish Market awarded our Environmental Grant last year to two businesses looking into biodegradable alternatives for fish bin liners (read more here). 

As seafood-lovers, we can do our part by reducing our plastic use. Bring your own reusable bag when you visit Sydney Fish Market, and opt for seafood products that come in biodegradable packaging where you can. 

4. Support Ocean Conservation Organisations 

Finally, you can celebrate World Oceans Day by supporting organisations that work to protect the ocean and its wildlife. Sydney Fish Market partners with OceanWatch to support their important work in protecting marine species, reducing by-catch, introducing sustainable technologies, changing behaviours and restoring marine habitats. Consider making a donation to OceanWatch, or volunteering your time to help with their regular waterway clean-ups. 

In conclusion, as seafood lovers, we have a special connection to the ocean and its resources. By celebrating World Oceans Day and taking steps to protect the ocean, we can help to ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy the delicious seafood that the ocean provides. Visit Sydney Fish Market or jump on one of our tours to learn more about responsible sourcing, fisheries management, and ocean conservation, and to join us in celebrating World Oceans Day today.