Planet Aware Isle of Wight is calling on Isle of Wight shops and businesses to take part in a World Ocean Day initiative by creating ocean-themed window displays during the week starting 8th June 2026.
The local environmental group wants businesses with window frontages to help raise awareness of the importance of marine habitats and the role the ocean plays in everyday life.
Surrounded by sea
As an island, the Isle of Wight has direct access to a varied and striking coastline, and the ocean provides much of the oxygen people breathe, feeds millions worldwide, and is home to a wide range of marine species.
Planet Aware IW hopes businesses will use their windows to both celebrate what the ocean gives and highlight the need for stronger protection of vital marine environments.
What to include
Suggested display ideas include using blues and greens to create an ocean feel, recreating habitats such as seagrass meadows, reefs, or rocky shores, and sharing ideas on how people can live more sustainably.
Resources to help with displays are available on the World Ocean Day website, including materials from the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust.
A prize on offer
Businesses taking part can send a photo of their window display to [email protected] or via Planet Aware’s social media channels, with a prize available for the best entry.
Planet Aware volunteers also hope schools will mark the occasion, with a range of educational resources available on the World Ocean Day website.
Get involved
Members of the public can join Planet Aware beach activities through the website, or volunteer with the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, alongside many other organisations supporting nature on the Island.
