Oceans make up 70 per cent of the earth’s surface and are a major source of food and medicine.

They are also rich in mineral resources, including oil, and exploration is continuing.

In addition, oceans are also considered the lungs of the planet, providing most of the oxygen that we breathe.

To highlight the importance of oceans, World Oceans Day is observed on 8 June each year.

The observance this year coincides with the 30th anniversary of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.

Ambassador Nii Odunton, Secretary-General of the International Seabed Authority discusses the importance of oceans with Derrick Mbatha.

Duration: 4'49"