Project 1882 highlights the importance of World Oceans Day

World Oceans Day was established on June 8, 1992, and officially recognized by the United Nations in 2008. The oceans are the lungs of our planet, and Project 1882 highlights the importance of this day every year. While we take this time to celebrate marine life, deeply troubling developments are unfolding in other parts of Europe. Plans are underway in Spain to construct two of the world’s first commercial octopus farms. If realized, these plans will result in significant suffering for octopuses and pose serious environmental consequences for marine ecosystems. 

Octopuses are intelligent, solitary, and sensitive animals. In captivity however, they are at risk of developing aggression and even cannibalism – clear indicators that they do not thrive in such environments. 

– The fact that octopus farming is even being considered shows how far we are from recognizing aquatic animals as the sentient individuals they truly are. Octopuses are not commodities – they are intelligent, curious beings who belong in the ocean, not behind bars. We must act now to stop this from becoming reality, says Benny Andersson, CEO of Project 1882. 

Project 1882 believes that octopuses and other aquatic animals deserve to be respected as sentient individuals with the right to their own lives. 

Join us as a voice for the animals of the sea. This week, we stand up for them – together. Project 1882 urges the European Commission and Spanish authorities to stop the development of the world’s first octopus farms – and we hope you will join us.