Fukuda: World Oceans Day inspires youth-led conservation

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In Brief:

• World Oceans Day calls attention to global marine protection
• New York Marine Rescue Center leads local sea turtle rescues
• Long Island students engage in marine conservation education
• Businesses urged to collaborate on year-round stewardship

Each June, communities across the globe recognize World Oceans Day as a moment to reflect on the critical role oceans play in sustaining life on earth, and a call to action to safeguard these ecosystems for generations to come. However, honoring and protecting our oceans should not be limited to just a single day. Though World Oceans Day only comes once a year, it’s essential we recognize the work that has been done, and all that still needs to be done.

In Japan, the idea of Kyosei, which means living and working together for the common good, drives innovation and technological advancement. However, it is also a mantra that inspires environmental protection and a harmonious relationship between people and nature to support a prosperous future. Long Island, its residents and the incredible businesses across the economic landscape share that vision for strong innovation, quality of life, education and environmental conservation—it’s truly a special place.

As we recognize World Oceans Day, it’s impossible to acknowledge ocean conservation and protection without extolling the work of the New York Marine Rescue Center, which is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation and release of marine wildlife, with a particular focus on sea turtles. We have proudly supported their work and believe it is important for businesses throughout the Island to recognize and celebrate their impact.

The NYMRC team, along with its partnerships with local organizations and schools, have helped bring students into the fold of marine conservation efforts. Through their work, young people are given the opportunity to engage in hands-on experiences to learn about marine ecosystems, how to help care for rescued sea life and even participate in their release back into the ocean. These moments go far beyond the classroom, as they are deeply moving and often life-changing for those involved.

While the student experience is a valuable teaching moment, Long Island schools have taken it further by weaving environmental protection lessons into their curriculums. We have been fortunate to work alongside some of these incredibly talented students as they document their experiences and write stories about the impact learning about endangered marine life has had on their lives. This has led to the creation of collaborative student-published books, which highlight the importance of protecting our oceans. These projects extend the impact of World Oceans Day, helping to foster ocean literacy and amplify youth voices in conservation and help drive the next generation of environmental champions. When young people are empowered to lead, they become catalysts for lasting change.

They also encompass a generation that will champion ocean protection for generations to come. This is also engrained through countless volunteer beach and park cleanups organized by nonprofit organizations, schools and businesses. These initiatives have played a crucial role in environmental conservation for decades, as it blends camaraderie with removing waste and mitigating harm to marine life. It is vital for companies and organizations to leverage their resources to empower communities in protecting our environment, ensuring a more sustainable and prosperous future for all. By collaborating, corporate and nonprofit partners can enhance the impact and reach of these initiatives. Fostering a collective sense of responsibility and pride in preserving our local environment will help foster a better Long Island.

Environmental stewardship should be a shared commitment. Whether it’s through educational outreach, volunteer service, or support for scientific research, businesses and individuals alike can play a role in protecting the natural world. World Oceans Day serves as a reminder that protecting our oceans must be a strong, collaborative effort, supported by us all.

I encourage fellow leaders to think beyond traditional environmental policies and seek out meaningful, collaborative opportunities to engage and empower their communities. The sea connects us all and safeguarding it should be a collective endeavor. Let us move forward with purpose, passion and unity in our shared responsibility to protect the blue heart of our planet.

Shinya Fukuda is senior vice president, corporate planning and communication division at Canon U.S.A. in Melville.