Written By: Victoria Licona, Edited By: Sofia Avila
Did you know that each year, humans dump 4 to 12 million metric tons of plastic into our oceans? Oceanic Society says that in the next 10 years that number will double what it is now. Have you ever stopped to think about what you could do to decrease this number? Well, if you haven’t, now is the time to start. Oceans cover 71 percent of the planet and are home to important species and ecosystems that we rely on for food, livelihoods, climate regulation and more.
Plastic is forever, it does not go away. One of the biggest problems with plastic is that it does not break down, it just turns into smaller particles of itself known as microplastics. This does not just affect us, it affects sea life as well. Sea turtles, whales, and coral reefs are some of the few examples of ocean life that are impacted by the waste being thrown into the ocean and the overuse of plastic. By simply changing a few habits in our lives, we can reduce the amount of plastic that enters our oceans.
Here are 5 different ways you can help reduce plastic:
The reason plastic companies are still in business is because of supply and demand. If we urge these companies to come up with plastic-free alternatives and stop buying the plastic products, they will have no choice but to make the switch!
- Avoid Ocean Harming Products
We have all heard the phrase “save our turtles”. So why are turtles still an endangered species? By using straws, unsustainable fishing methods, and one time use plastic water bottles, we are ruining an entire habitat for these animals.
- Use reusable bags when going grocery shopping
Some cities have already banned the use of plastic grocery bags for supermarkets. This has been incredibly helpful in helping to reduce the amount of plastic in local lakes and rivers. By not throwing away the plastic bags, you have already done your part so they do not end up in the oceans!
Yes, I am sure your beauty products are extremely necessary, but have you ever thought about how they can harm the environment? Microbeads can be found in toothpaste, facial soaps, and body washes. Many times, they are confused for food. A lot of ocean life believe that the microbeads that end up in the ocean are food, and consume the harmful chemicals in these microbeads. Instead of using plastic microbeads, make the switch to natural soaps like oatmeal or salt.
- Print or download a guide from Seafood Watch to help you make sustainable choices when you buy or order seafood, and learn about eco-certification of seafood.
- Refer to these top chefs for sustainable seafood recipes.
- Consider adding small, oily fish that are packed with protein to your diet.
Although these acts may seem small and not impactful, if we all do our part we can save our oceans together! It is also easy to take initiative and start your own beach cleanup or better yet, educate people around you of the importance of recycling and using plastic-free alternatives. All of these ways to help are small lifestyle changes for a bigger cause. Together, we can all reduce the amount of plastic being thrown into our oceans!