World Tuna Day 2024: Theme, History, Significance, Facts and Quotes

World Tuna Day, observed annually on May 2 is dedicated to raising awareness about the critical importance of tuna conservation. Tuna is popular for its numerous health benefits, as it provides Omega-3 fatty acids, protein and vital vitamins. But, tuna populations face significant threats due to overfishing and unsustainable fishing practices.

Recognising the urgent need for conservation efforts, the United Nations established World Tuna Day to promote sustainable fishing practices and safeguard tuna populations for future generations. This day serves as an opportunity to educate people about the challenges facing tuna and to 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 observed with a specific theme that highlights key aspects of tuna conservation, management and industry.

World Tuna Day: History

World Tuna Day was initially proposed by the Parties to the Nauru Agreement (PNA) during a meeting of the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC) in 2011.

The aim was to raise awareness about the importance of tuna and the challenges facing tuna populations, particularly in the Pacific region where tuna fisheries are significant.

In 2016, the United Nations General Assembly officially declared May 2 as World Tuna Day. Fiji led the resolution on behalf of the Pacific Small Island Developing States (PSIDS) and received support from more than 50 nations.

World Tuna Day: Significance

World Tuna Day’s main focus remains on the issue of overfishing and the importance of preserving them. Numerous countries rely on tuna for their daily diet. However, the industry is continuously expanding and raising concerns about sustainability.The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) has already issued warnings about the decline of several tuna species due to overfishing.

World Tuna Day: Facts

1. Tuna has the ability to maintain a higher body temperature than the surrounding water.
2. With their swimming muscles and torpedo-shaped bodies, tuna travels the oceans with ease.
3. The Atlantic bluefin tuna can grow up to ten feet long and weigh as much as 2000 pounds.
4. Certain tuna species can reach up to the speed of 43 miles per hour, due to their unique body structure.
5. Among the 15 tuna varieties, the skipjack, yellow fin, big eye and albacore are the most common species.

World Tuna Day Quotes

1. “There are so many issues in our oceans like the near extinction of bluefin tuna that should be taken more seriously worldwide.” – Heston Blumenthal.
2. “Bluefin tuna is sort of like the cheetah of the ocean. It is the fastest fish in the ocean. It is a warm-blooded fish also.” – Paul Watson.
3. “By the end of the 20th century, up to 90 percent of the sharks, tuna, and many other large creatures that prospered in the Gulf for millions of years had been depleted by overfishing.” – Sylvia Earle.

How To Celebrate

Numerous organisations including governments, NGOs and institutions, organise exhibitions, social media and educational campaigns to highlight the importance of tuna conservation. Fishing events are held to promote responsible fishing methods.