Taking Care of the Ocean

There is pollution EVERYWHERE. You probably have seen many people advocate for the environment, from banning plastic straws to joining the climate change movement. Today, I am going to be specifically going over how to protect our oceans from excessive pollution. Oceans cover more than 70% of Earth’s surface. They serve many purposes for the ecosystem. Some ways that the ocean benefits us is by regulating the climate, providing food, and giving us recreational ideas. If we want it to continue helping us, we must play our part by protecting it. Here are 5 ways you can help preserve the oceans.

1. Use less plastic.

   1. Many of us have heard about the banning of plastic straws. Plastic is harmful because it takes many years to decompose. About 17.6 billion pounds of plastic enter the oceans every year. Plastic enters ocean ecosystems and harms organisms. Have you ever heard of the Great Pacific Garbage Patch? It is literally an area of plastic in the middle of the ocean that is primarily made up of microplastics.

2. Use less energy and reduce vehicle pollution.

   1. For example, use energy-efficient light bulbs, turn off the lights when you leave a room, and do not overset your thermostat.

   2. Because carbon dioxide makes oceans more acidic which in turn affects organisms such as coral, we should work on emitting less carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Instead of driving a car, aim to ride a bike or ride public transportation.

3. Eat sustainable seafood.

   1. Choose fish that are from well-managed, wild fisheries. You can do this by learning about the eco-certification of seafood.

   2. If you choose to eat seafood, adding small, oily fish with protein is a good choice.

4. Avoid ocean harming products.

   1. Many products are directly linked to endangered or threatened species. For example, try to avoid cosmetics that contain shark squalene or jewelry composed of coral/ sea turtle shells.

5. Explore the oceans, and explore it with others, too!

   1. By constantly being immersed in the beauty of the ocean, you will be even more motivated to protect it. Showing others will bring the wonder to them as well.

Every little move to preserve our oceans is a step forward. Do not think that your help is insignificant, for it makes a huge difference!