World Tuna Day, observed annually on 2 May, is dedicated to raising awareness about the vital importance of tuna conservation. Tuna is popular for its many health benefits, as it provides omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and important vitamins. But, tuna populations face significant threats due to overfishing and unsustainable fishing practices.
Recognizing the urgent need for conservation efforts, the United Nations established World Tuna Day to promote sustainable fishing practices and protect tuna populations for future generations. The day is an opportunity to educate people about the challenges facing tuna and advocate for balanced fishing practices that ensure the long-term health and viability of tuna stocks.
World Tuna Day 2024: Theme
Each year, World Tuna Day is celebrated with a specific theme that highlights key aspects of tuna conservation, management and the industry. However, for this year, the theme has not been announced yet by the officials responsible for org.zing the event.
World Tuna Day: History
World Tuna Day was proposed by the Parties to the Nauru Agreement (PNA) during a meeting of the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC) in 2011.
Its purpose was to raise awareness of the importance of tuna and the challenges facing tuna populations, especially in the Pacific where tuna fisheries are important.
In 2016, the United Nations General Assembly officially declared 2 May as World Tuna Day. Fiji led the proposal on behalf of the Pacific Small Island Developing States (PSIDS) and received support from more than 50 countries.
World Tuna Day: Significance
The main focus of World Tuna Day remains on the issue of overfishing and the importance of their conservation. Many countries depend on tuna for their daily diet. However, the industry is constantly expanding and raising concerns about sustainability. The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) has already issued a warning about the decline of many tuna species due to overfishing.
World Tuna Day: Facts
- Tuna have the ability to maintain a higher body temperature than the surrounding water.
- With their swimming muscles and torpedo-shaped bodies, tuna travel the oceans with ease.
- Atlantic bluefin tuna can grow up to ten feet long and weigh up to 2000 pounds.
- Some tuna species can reach speeds of up to 43 miles per hour due to their unique body structure.
- Of the 15 tuna varieties, skipjack, yellow fin, big eye and albacore are the most common species.
world tuna day quotes
- “There are many issues like the near extinction of bluefin tuna in our oceans that should be taken more seriously around the world.” – Heston Blumenthal.
- “Bluefin tuna are like the leopard of the sea. It is the fastest fish in the sea. “It is also a warm-blooded fish.” – Paul Watson.
- “By the end of the 20th century, up to 90 percent of the sharks, tuna and many other large creatures that had thrived in the Gulf for millions of years were lost due to overfishing.” -Sylvia Earle.
how to celebrate
Many org.zations including governments, NGOs and institutions org.ze exhibitions, social media and educational campaigns to highlight the importance of tuna conservation. Fishing programs are org.zed to promote responsible fishing practices.
