So, here are just a few things we can all do in our daily lives that collectively, will make a huge difference to the health of the oceans.
MAKE THE CONNECTION
The first step in making a difference is learning about the ocean and how your and your family’s actions have an impact. Research everyday things you can do to help protect and restore the oceans. And don't forget to share what you've learned!
TRIM DOWN THE TRASH
Remember that trash we "throw away" doesn't disappear - plastic especially is a major hazard for marine animals. Sea birds, turtles, seals, and other animals can mistake floating plastic for food or become tangled in it and die. Help prevent this by curbing your family's throwaway habits.
CUT CARBON
When we burn fossil fuels (like oil, gas, or coal) to power our homes, businesses, and cars, we are adding the gas carbon dioxide to the air. The blanket of carbon dioxide we've been building for over a hundred years acts like a greenhouse, trapping more of the sun's heat. More heat means a warmer ocean, which is taking its toll on marine life. It also causes the ocean to become more acidic, which makes it hard for organisms like corals and clams to build their skeletons and shells. You can help slow global warming and ocean acidification by reducing your "carbon footprint"—the amount of carbon dioxide released as you go about your daily activities.
YES , THE ICE CAPS AND SEA ICE ARE MELTING
Arctic sea ice is disappearing due to global warming. Without sea ice, polar bears cannot hunt successfully and their numbers are already decreasing. Turn down your thermostat, eat less meat, and conserve fuel.
NEVER SUPPORT THE LIVE REEF FISH TRADE
The live fish trade can refer to the live food fish trade (for human consumption at restaurants) or to the aquarium / souvenir fish trade. Fish come from many places around the world, but mainly the Philippines and Indonesia. Local fishermen use illegal fishing techniques including cyanide and explosives. The majority of fish do not survive the process of extraction and many species are now in danger in the wild.
KNOW WHAT YOU ARE EATING
Global fish populations are plummeting at alarming rates due to overfishing and destructive fishing techniques, with some estimating up to 90 percent of large predatory fish have now disappeared since heavy fishing began. For example, consumer demand leads to an estimated 700 million sharks each year being killed for their fins. Many restaurants across the world (including every US State) serve shark fin soup pushing several shark species into decline and possible extinction. If you do eat fish, consider the source and the type of fish before you buy - only buy products that you know were sustainably harvested – that the species can maintain a healthy population and the natural balance is not disrupted. Check out Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch for recommendations.
STOP TRASHING THE OCEAN
You probably would never dream of dumping your trash in the ocean. So, it may be surprising to find out that over-fertilizing your lawn has an impact. Run-off from lawns and farms can pollute the ocean or other waterways. In fact, anything you dump into your sewer system can be harmful. Plastic bags, bottles, can rings, even plastic and helium-filled balloons can end up in the ocean. Animals can die from ingesting or getting entangled in plastic. Please dispose of all your trash and recyclables responsible – and know where your trash ends up eventually.
Make the change today. Learn about the ocean. Think about it.
Comments