His documentaries, which take viewers from the deepest jungles to the icy poles, have inspired generations to marvel at our planet’s beauty and complexity. For more than seven decades, he has been the gentle, wise voice guiding us through the wonders of the natural world.
But now, at the age of 98 and approaching his 99th birthday, the beloved broadcaster has delivered a message that is as urgent as it is heartfelt—a message he hopes the world will hear before it’s too late.
Sir David Attenborough’s career has spanned the globe and generations. From the rainforests of Borneo to the icy reaches of Antarctica, he’s brought the marvels of our planet into our living rooms, inspiring awe and, increasingly, concern.
His documentaries—Life on Earth, The Blue Planet, Planet Earth, and many more—have not only educated millions but have also sounded the alarm about the threats facing our environment.
With the release of his latest documentary, Ocean, Attenborough is turning our attention to the seas—a realm he calls ‘the most important place on Earth’.
‘When I first saw the sea as a young boy, it was thought of as a vast wilderness to be tamed and mastered for the benefit of humanity,’ Attenborough reflects in Ocean, which premieres on his birthday, 8 May.
‘Now, as I approach the end of my life, we know the opposite is true. After living for nearly 100 years on this planet, I now understand that the most important place on Earth is not on land, but at sea.’
It’s a powerful statement that comes at a critical time. Our oceans are under unprecedented pressure from overfishing, pollution, climate change, and habitat destruction.
The Great Barrier Reef, which Attenborough first explored in 1957, is now a symbol of nature’s beauty and fragility.
Despite the dire warnings, Attenborough’s message is not one of despair. He’s more hopeful than ever—if we choose to act.
‘Today, [the ocean] is in such poor health I would find it hard not to lose hope were it not for the most remarkable discovery of all,’ he said.
‘The ocean can recover faster than we had ever imagined. If we save the sea, we save our world.’
The documentary highlights real solutions, such as creating protected marine reserves—areas where fishing is banned and nature can heal. These initiatives have already shown that, when given the opportunity, aquatic life can bounce back with astonishing speed.
Attenborough also credited the power of storytelling and education in changing hearts and minds.
‘The world would be in a far, far worse situation now if there was no natural history broadcasting,’ he noted.
‘People have found it a source of fascination, beauty, and interest, which has become key to looking after the world.’
His lifetime has coincided with what he calls ‘the great age of ocean discovery’.
In the past century, scientists have uncovered new species, tracked epic migrations, and revealed the dazzling complexity of marine ecosystems—discoveries have only deepened our understanding of how interconnected life on Earth truly is.
Attenborough’s message is clear: it’s not too late, but time is running out. At the end of his Frozen Planet II documentary, he reminded, ‘We can do it, it’s within our power to do it. We must do it. Then there will be a future for the planet.’
Attenborough’s fascination with the natural world began in childhood, collecting fossils and watching birds in his garden.
After studying natural sciences at Cambridge University, he joined the BBC in the 1950s, quickly becoming a household name.
Living on a vast continent like Australia, it’s easy to forget how vital the oceans are to survival.
The sea covers more than 70 per cent of the Earth’s surface and is home to an incredible diversity of life. It regulates our climate, provides food for billions, and produces more than half the oxygen we breathe.
Sir David Attenborough’s legacy reminds us that every voice matters and every action counts. Have his documentaries inspired you to make changes in your own life? What are your hopes for the future of our planet? We’d love to hear your thoughts and stories in the comments below.
Also read: It’s official: Australia’s ocean surface was the hottest on record in 2024
David is right. However, with the wrong people in charge of the world the sea will die quicker than ever. David is a brilliant man, God bless him and may he see 100 years.
Agreed, ronloby! May more people emulate him.