Commissioner Vella stated that "The world's aquariums are like a TV screen into the ocean. By showing the shocking reality of marine litter, aquariums have decided to become the 'breaking news' of our Ocean. By this action we hope to avoid that they become the ocean's history channel".

10 million tonnes of litter are dumped in our seas every year. By 2050, there could be more plastic than fish in their waters. Aquariums, as ambassadors of the sea, are the ideal partners to raise awareness about this growing problem and call on citizens, businesses and administrations alike to take action. Over 60 aquariums around the world have already joined this European Commission initiative – and still more are coming on board.

We can all act, individually and collectively. Whilst designed to shock the visitors, the campaign also offers concrete solutions to prevent and fight marine litter, in particular by promoting a circular economy approach.

Marine Pollution is one of the six main themes of the forthcoming Our Ocean, An Ocean for Life conference (Malta, 5-6 October). During this high-level event global ocean leaders will put forward their commitments to protect the oceans. 2017 is bound to go down in history as the year of ocean mobilisation.

More information

World Aquariums Against Marine Litter

Our Ocean, An Ocean for Life