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BETTER
PACKAGING BUT POOR RECYCLING -
These 10 tips were published by National Geographic over eight years ago
in 2010. Since then things have been getting steadily worse, proving
that we need more than just good intentions of a minority of the public
who might give a damn. We need positive action in terms of biodiversity
conservation, climate change and plastic pollution.
1. Mind Your
Carbon Footprint and Reduce Energy Consumption
Reduce the effects of climate change on the ocean by leaving the car at home when you can and being conscious of your
energy use at home and work. A few things you can do to get started today: Switch to compact fluorescent light bulbs, take the stairs, and bundle up or use a fan to avoid oversetting your thermostat.
2. Make Safe, Sustainable Seafood Choices
Global fish populations are rapidly being depleted due to demand, loss of habitat, and unsustainable
fishing practices. When shopping or dining out, help reduce the demand for overexploited species by choosing seafood that is both healthful and sustainable. 3. Use Fewer Plastic Products
Plastics that end up as ocean debris contribute to habitat destruction and entangle and kill tens of thousands of marine animals each year. To limit your impact, carry a
reusable water
bottle, store food in non-disposable containers, bring your own cloth tote or other reusable bag when shopping, and recycle whenever possible.
4. Help Take Care of the Beach
Whether you enjoy diving, surfing, or relaxing on the beach, always clean up after yourself. Explore and appreciate the ocean without interfering with wildlife or removing rocks and
coral. Go even further by encouraging others to respect the marine environment or by participating in local beach cleanups.
5. Don't Purchase Items That Exploit Marine Life
Certain products contribute to the harming of fragile coral reefs and marine populations. Avoid purchasing items such as coral
jewelry, tortoiseshell hair accessories (made from hawksbill turtles), and
shark products.
6. Be an Ocean-Friendly Pet Owner
Read pet food labels and consider seafood sustainability when choosing a diet for your pet. Never flush cat litter, which can contain pathogens harmful to marine life. Avoid stocking your aquarium with wild-caught saltwater fish, and never release any aquarium
fish into the ocean or other bodies of
water, a practice that can introduce non-native species harmful to the existing ecosystem.
7. Support Organizations Working to Protect the Ocean
Many institutes and organizations are fighting to protect ocean habitats and marine wildlife. Find a national organization and consider giving financial support or
volunteering for hands-on work or advocacy. If you live near the coast, join up with a local branch or group and get involved in projects close to home.
8. Influence Change in Your Community
Research the ocean policies of public officials before you vote or contact your local representatives to let them know you support marine conservation projects. Consider patronizing restaurants and grocery stores that offer only
sustainable
seafood, and speak up about your concerns if you spot a threatened species on the menu or at the seafood counter.
9. Travel the Ocean Responsibly
Practice responsible boating, kayaking, and other recreational activities on the water. Never throw anything overboard, and be aware of marine life in the waters around you. If you’re set on taking a cruise for your next vacation, do some research to find the most eco-friendly option.
10. Educate Yourself About Oceans and Marine Life
All Life on Earth is connected to the ocean and its inhabitants. The more you learn about the issues facing this vital system, the more you’ll want to help ensure its health—then share that knowledge to educate and inspire others.
OCEAN
CLEANING PROJECTS -
[Left] The
Cleaner Ocean Foundation would like to develop this plastic collecting vessel
as a not for profit enterprise, though they turn commercial. [Right] The
Ocean Cleanup Project want to float 60 giant floating booms to scoop 50%
of the poop in the Great
Pacific Garbage Patch.
We
all need to
think about changing to a circular economy with food
security and sustainable recycling of
waste as hard point targets.
LINKS
& REFERENCE
https://www.plasticsoupfoundation.org/en/2019/06/camera-in-wageningen-captures-coral-eating-plastic/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0025326X17306112
https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspb.2019.0726
https://www.nationalgeographic.com/environment/oceans/take-action/10-things-you-can-do-to-save-the-ocean/
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