8 Reasons We Love the Ocean
Published on 2/5/25
Written by Jessica Colla
As Valentine's Day approaches, we often think about the people, places, and experiences that fill our hearts with joy. This February, let’s take a moment to celebrate one of the most awe-inspiring wonders and the heartbeat of our planet: the OCEAN! 🌊
Covering over 70% of Earth’s surface, the ocean is not only beautiful, but essential to life as we know it. From its role in sustaining our global ecosystems on both land and sea to its endless creative inspiration … here are 8 reasons we absolutely love the ocean and why it deserves our admiration and care this Valentine’s Day. ❤️
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1. It Provides Us with the Air We Breathe
Did you know that the ocean produces at least 50% of the oxygen we breathe, with some estimates suggesting it could be as high as 80%? Phytoplankton, microscopic marine plants, are the unsung heroes of this process. They absorb nearly one-third of the carbon dioxide we emit into the atmosphere, while releasing oxygen! According to NOAA, these tiny organisms are crucial for maintaining the balance of gases in our atmosphere. The ocean is truly our planet’s lungs, giving us the breath of life each day. 💨
But phytoplankton aren’t the only oxygen-producing powerhouses! Other marine plants and plant-like organisms, such as seagrass meadows, kelp forests, and mangroves, also play a vital role in oxygen production and carbon storage. These coastal ecosystems help sustain the air we breathe but also provide critical habitats for countless marine species. 🌱🌊
2. It Regulates Our Climate
The ocean acts as Earth’s own personal thermostat, absorbing over 90% of the excess heat caused by greenhouse gas emissions (NOAA). It also stores massive amounts of carbon, helping mitigate the negative effects of climate change. Ocean currents, like the Gulf Stream and the Eastern Australian Current (EAC), distribute heat around the globe. This keeps some areas cooler and others warmer—which is why temperatures can differ dramatically at the same latitudes on opposite sides of a continent. Without this regulation, our planet’s climate would be far less hospitable, impacting all life on Earth! ☀️
But the ocean doesn’t just move heat—it also influences weather patterns, rainfall, and even storm intensity. Warm ocean waters fuel hurricanes, typhoons, and cyclones, while cooler waters can help weaken them. The El Niño (warm) and La Niña (cold) climate cycles, caused by temperature shifts in the Pacific Ocean, affect everything from droughts in Australia to heavy rains in South America. Meanwhile, the ocean’s ability to absorb carbon dioxide helps slow down global warming, though rising emissions are pushing this natural buffer to its limits. In short, the ocean is the reason we have a relatively stable climate—one we can’t afford to take for granted! 🌍
3. It’s Home to Incredible Biodiversity
The ocean is home to over 200,000 known species, but scientists estimate that there are potentially millions more yet to be discovered! From vibrant coral reefs—which host 25% of all marine species found in the ocean—to mysterious deep-sea creatures that thrive in complete darkness, the ocean is a hub of life. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), this biodiversity not only enriches our planet but is also vital for ecosystem stability and human well-being. 🐟🐠🐡
Marine biodiversity varies across regions. Tropical waters, like the Coral Triangle, are the most species-rich, hosting vibrant reefs teeming with fish and invertebrates. Temperate waters sustain dynamic kelp forests, providing shelter for sea otters, sharks, and marine mammals. Even the icy polar regions support essential species like krill, which fuel entire food webs. Each ecosystem plays a critical role in keeping the ocean—and the planet—healthy. 🌊🌎
Psssst! Check out this article about ‘Why Marine Science is Important’ to learn about how humans benefit from the ocean and its conservation!
4. It Feeds Millions Around the World
The ocean provides food for over 3 billion people globally, serving as a vital source of protein and supporting countless livelihoods. With over 40% of the world’s population living within 100 kilometers (62 miles) of a coastline (UNESCO), humans have historically depended on marine resources for sustenance and trade. Today, seafood remains a staple in many diets, with species like tuna, salmon, shrimp, and shellfish providing essential nutrients, while seaweed farming continues to grow as a sustainable food source.
Beyond nutrition, the ocean fuels a massive global industry. The U.S. seafood sector alone contributes over $244 billion to the economy annually (NOAA Fisheries) and supports more than 1.7 million jobs. However, overfishing and habitat degradation threaten marine food supplies, making sustainable fishing and responsible aquaculture essential for future food security. By supporting well-managed fisheries and eco-friendly seafood choices, we can help preserve the ocean’s ability to feed both people and economies for generations to come. 🌊🐠
6. It’s a Natural Playground
Whether you enjoy surfing, snorkeling, sailing, or simply taking a peaceful stroll along the shore, the ocean offers endless opportunities for recreation and relaxation. With its vast expanse and ever-changing beauty, it’s no surprise that beaches attract more than 100 million tourists annually in the U.S. alone (NOAA). Coastal destinations fuel local economies, supporting businesses that cater to water sports, ecotourism, and leisure activities. From whale-watching tours to deep-sea fishing expeditions, the ocean provides unique experiences that bring people closer to nature. 🌊🏄♀️
Beyond adventure, the ocean offers undeniable mental and physical health benefits. Studies show that simply being near the ocean is beneficial! The rhythmic sound of waves has been shown to lower stress levels, enhances mood and boosts cognitive function, while time spent in saltwater can improve circulation and soothe muscles (Harvard Health). The book “Blue Mind: The Surprising Science That Shows How Being Near, In, On, or Under Water Can Make You Happier, Healthier, More Connected, and Better at What You Do”, delves into the psychological state of relaxation and mental clarity associated with water. 💙
5. It Inspires Awe and Creativity
The ocean has sparked human imagination for centuries. From the mythological stories of mermaids and sea monsters to modern-day marine exploration, its beauty and mystery continue to captivate and inspire us.
Countless works of art, literature, and music have been shaped by the sea. Hokusai’s famous The Great Wave off Kanagawa captures the ocean’s immense power, while Claude Debussy’s La Mer translates its movement into a symphony of sound. Writers like Jules Verne took readers on deep-sea adventures in 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, and Herman Melville’s Moby-Dick explored humanity’s relationship with the ocean’s mysteries. Even modern films, from Finding Nemo to The Life Aquatic, reflect our fascination with the deep blue. 🌊🎨📖
But you don’t have to be a professional artist, musician, or filmmaker to be inspired by the sea! The ocean stirs creativity in all of us, whether through photography, journaling, or simply the way we tell stories about our experiences on the water. My colleague beautifully blends art and science to create massive ocean murals that inspire her community and advocate for conservation and climate change action. Her work is a powerful reminder that art is a tool for storytelling, education, and change. 💙
7. It Connects Us All
The ocean transcends borders, connecting countries, cultures, and ecosystems. Covering over 70% of the Earth's surface, it serves as a vast highway for trade, travel, and communication. For centuries, it has facilitated cultural exchange, from the Polynesians navigating the Pacific with the stars to modern shipping routes that power the global economy. Today, 90% of the world’s trade moves across the ocean (UNCTAD), reinforcing its role in connecting people and nations. 🌍🚢
But the ocean’s interconnectedness goes beyond human activity—it is essential for all life on earth! Ocean currents distribute heat and nutrients, regulating global climates and sustaining ecosystems. Migratory species like whales, sea turtles, and seabirds travel thousands of miles, crossing entire oceans and linking distant habitats. The health of one part of the ocean affects the whole, reminding us that protecting marine environments isn’t just a local effort—it’s a global responsibility. Whether through shared seafood resources, cultural traditions tied to the sea, or collective conservation efforts, the ocean unites us all. By safeguarding it, we ensure a healthier planet for future generations. 🌊💙
A Love Worth Protecting
This Valentine’s Day, let’s show some love to the ocean, the heart of our planet! 💙🌊🌎
It provides the oxygen we breathe, regulates our climate, and supports a vibrant array of life, all while inspiring us and bringing us together. By working together to reduce pollution, support sustainable practices, and advocate for marine conservation, we can help the ocean thrive for generations to come.
This February, celebrate your love for the ocean by taking small steps to protect it (like getting ideas from the blog articles linked above .. hint hint, wink wink 😉)—because a healthy ocean means a healthier, more beautiful world for us all.
So ... why do YOU love the ocean?? Tell us in the comments!
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