You know SDTN as a treasure trove of information about the world's best dive sites, and a whole lot more. We want you to know we're about more than just promoting fun for divers - we also care deeply about the environment, with a strong focus on the oceans. You love the ocean - and if you're like us, you feel it draw you in like a magnet, even when you don't have time to dive. Perhaps, that is because humanity - and all other life on earth - depends on healthy oceans for survival.
The Earth As Ocean
Only 30% of our planet is not covered by seawater; in fact, the highest peaks and deepest valleys on the planet are all underwater. Throughout the earth's oceans, a single interconnected circulatory system powered by tides, wind, and the force of Earth rotating exists, connecting all life to the oceans. 97% of the planet's water is contained within the oceans; and, all water on the planet, whether it is water held in a reservoir, or contained in a lake, or flowing in a stream or river, is connected to the oceans via recurring cycles of evaporation and precipitation. All watersheds eventually connect to the ocean. So, whether you live in Alaska or Zambia, your little corner of the world is inextricably connected to the sea. Essentially, our continents, which seem massive when viewed from our vantage points on the ground, are nothing but little islands in a vast ocean.
The Ocean and Weather
Oceans majorly influence climate and weather, as the oceans dominate the planet's carbon, energy, and water systems, and as the ocean absorbs most of the solar radiation that reaches Earth. As the ocean evaporates, atmospheric circulation occurs, then water vapor condenses and forms rain. Hurricanes and cyclones are born of water evaporated from warm seas - as global temperature rises, these weather phenomenon are likely to increase as well. Recent weather events described as "weird weather" are no accident - they are ultimately the result of changes taking place within the oceans.
Oceans and the Air You Breathe
The ocean actually makes Earth a place suitable for habitation by life as we know it. Most of the oxygen the atmosphere contains originates due to activities of photosynthetic life forms living in the ocean. Yes, trees and other land-based plant forms are important and vital to survival; so are massive kelp forests and tiny marine plants. Together, all of these life forms make it possible for us to breathe. It is up to us to ensure these plants thrive. Pollution, global warming, and ocean acidification are threatening our oxygen supply.
The fact is, oceans affect all life. Fresh water is supplied by the oceans, along with more than half the oxygen in the Earth's atmosphere. Oceans moderate the planet's climate, influence its weather, and directly affect our health. The ocean is a source for healthy food, medications, and many other resources. We affect the oceans, too - and in doing so, we have a direct effect on our own future. If you think ocean conservation doesn't concern you, or if you wonder whether your efforts toward conservation are a waste of time, think again. Every little bit counts. So, do all you can to live sustainably and encourage others to do the same. Your future - and the future of all life on earth - depends on it.