In acknowledgment of World Ocean Day, Alabama Aquarium is scheduled to highlight the voices of local youth on Saturday, June 8, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with a series of projects and presentations.

World Ocean Day was first officially recognized by the United Nations in 2008, leading to now more than 150 countries uniting today through youth organizations and leaders to raise awareness for the protection and restoration of our planet. Schools set to have representatives in attendance during Alabama Aquarium’s observance include Fairhope High School, Daphne High School, Bryant High School, Dauphin Island Elementary, Alabama School of Math and Science, University of Mobile and University of South Alabama.

Students will discuss stingray safety, coral, microplastics, water quality, sea turtle conservation, Mardi Gras bead research, beach renourishment sustainability and more. Projects from Bayside Academy, Fairhope High School, Fairhope Middle School, Fairhope East Elementary School and Davidson High School students will also be showcased.

"The ‘borrowed earth’ proverb reminds us that we are stewards of a home that we inhabit today but others will inhabit when we’re gone,” said Mendel Graeber, educator at Alabama Aquarium. “These young people are already thinking about their roles as stewards of our planet. They are learning, taking action and speaking out. It's important that we guide them, listen to them and work with them as they are our successors in this vital work. We're excited to hear from these motivated young people from our community, and we're pleased to offer them a platform to voice their interests and concerns to our visitors."

Displays at Alabama Aquarium will be available for viewing throughout the weekend, open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday.