On World Oceans Day 2015, Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon observed the importance of the oceans for sustainable development and their role in landmark agreements on climate change and ending poverty that were adopted in 2015. He noted that “[i]n this potentially pivotal year, we must commit to using the gifts of the oceans peacefully, equitably and sustainably for generations to come.”
The United Nations celebrated World Oceans Day 2015 and recognized the winners of the Annual World Oceans Day Oceanic Photo Competition at an event on 8 June 2015 at the United Nations Headquarters. The theme for the UN’s observance of World Oceans Day 2015 was “Healthy Oceans, Healthy Planet.” The celebration of World Oceans Day 2015 coincided with the first day of the twenty-fifth meeting of the Meeting of States Parties to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. This year also marked the twentieth anniversary of the adoption and opening for signature of the United Nations Fish Stocks Agreement. A reception was held at the United Nations Headquarters where the winners of the photo contest were announced. The winning photos were projected in large format. A quartet of the United Nations Orchestra performed at the reception. At sunset the Empire State Building was beautifully lit in the World Oceans Day colours of white, blue and purple, representing the different layers of the ocean.