The Bangladesh Oceanographic Research Institute (BORI) organised a beach clean-up and public awareness campaign at Inani Sea Beach in Cox’s Bazar on Monday to mark World Oceans Day 2026.
Commodore Md Minarul Haque, the director general of BORI, led the programme, with officials and staff from the institute participating in the initiative.
This year’s World Oceans Day theme was “Strong Marine Protected Areas for Our Blue Planet.”
As part of the campaign, participants collected and removed plastic waste, polythene bags, bottles, cans and other litter scattered along the beach.
The programme also focused on raising awareness among tourists and local residents about marine pollution, ocean conservation and the sustainable use of marine resources.
During the event, Commodore Minarul Haque distributed awareness-themed T-shirts among participants and highlighted the importance of protecting marine ecosystems, reducing plastic pollution and promoting responsible use of ocean resources.
He said that conserving marine biodiversity, preventing overfishing and achieving the global target of protecting at least 30 per cent of the world’s oceans by 2030 were crucial for safeguarding marine ecosystems and ensuring the long-term sustainability of fisheries resources.
He added that healthy marine ecosystems would contribute positively to national economies by supporting fisheries, tourism and other ocean-based sectors.
The BORI director general also stressed the need for collective efforts by government agencies, private organisations, local communities and tourists to protect marine and coastal environments.
BORI officials expressed hope that the World Oceans Day programme would help increase public awareness of marine conservation and support the development of a sustainable blue economy in Bangladesh.
Cox’s Bazar Life Report
Photo: Courtesy
