The health of the world’s oceans have become a major focus of global conservation efforts over the past decade, and rightfully so. The oceans contain incredibly diverse and complex ecosystems that support a huge amount of animal and plant life, as well as countless species of coral reef. Unfortunately, the health of the oceans is in a state of rapid decline, and the need for action is urgent.
Fortunately, there are a number of steps that individuals can take to help protect the world’s oceans and theway of life of its inhabitants. These simple lifestyle changes can have a huge impact on the health of the oceans. Here are a few of the most easy or mostly easy life changes to help protect our oceans:
1. Reduce plastic consumption.
The Ocean Conservancy estimates that up to 12.7 million tonnes of plastic enter the ocean annually. Single use plastics, such as shopping bags, straws and water bottles, are incredibly harmful to marine life, as they often end up in the ocean. To reduce plastic consumption, sub plastic bags for reusable ones when shopping, and say no to plastic straws when dining out.
2. Support sustainable seafood. The population of some fish species, such as tuna, has been declining due to overfishing. To ensure the sustainability of these species, choose sustainable wild-caught or farm-raised seafood options when purchasing fish. Additionally, opt for fish that are low in mercury, and avoid purchasing endangered species.
3. Cut down on water use. Reducing your freshwater consumption means reduced runoff, keeping more rivers and streams healthy and full of fresh water. Doing this helps protect ocean health because it reduces the amount of pollutants that find their way into the ocean. Make sure to use eco-friendly cleaning products and to be mindful of your water usage.
4. Buy sustainable and ethically-made products. Avoid buying products made from coral, shells, or other animal products from the ocean. When shopping for clothing, look for items made from recycled plastic and natural fibers, as these will reduce some of the plastic waste that is polluting the oceans. Additionally, look for brands practicing ethical labor practices, since some companies exploit their workers in order to keep costs low.
By taking these simple steps, we can all help keep our beloved oceans safe and healthy. Protecting the world’s oceans is essential for preserving our way of life, and these five steps are easy inclusions into anyone’s daily life. Small actions can make a big impact, so let’s do our part to keep the ocean safe.
