There is nothing that can compare with the experience of becoming one with over 70% of the earth’s surface. It is that one perfect moment of balance between man and nature. But sadly, not everyone has the same appreciation for the sea and her inhabitants. It is up to those of us who have made the connection with the ocean to lead the charge to protect what we hold most dear.
“People protect what they love.” – Jacques-Yves Cousteau
Not only do we need to protect the ocean for our own use and benefit, but we need to ensure that future generations have the opportunity to discover what today’s surfers, paddle boarders, snorkelers, and scuba divers all know and love. Adopting a few simple practices in your daily life can help stop the damage humans are doing to the ocean and preserve it for future generations to enjoy.
Plastic Is Poisoning The Ocean
The Great Pacific Garbage Patch is currently estimated to be twice the size of Texas, and sadly, that is only one of these 5 atrocities on the planet. This particular patch is believed to be made up of over 1.8 trillion pieces of plastic that combine to weigh in at over 80 tons. Not only is this material releasing toxins into the water, but it is also being consumed by sea life in the area. And those not eating it are becoming entrapped in the debris and dying a slow and painful death.
Choosing plastic-free alternatives in your everyday life can help to reduce this severe damage in the future. Purchase a few reusable shopping bags rather than using plastic bags, opt for reusable stainless steel straws, and use a refillable water bottle. You won’t notice a change in your life, but the ocean will see the difference.
Respect The Beach And The Ocean
Each day millions of people enjoy beaches around the world. But many times, they leave without the trash that they brought with them. This paper, plastic and other foreign material ends up in the ocean creating danger for sea life and the ocean. When you are at the beach and in the water, don’t leave anything you brought with you and don’t take anything you didn’t bring. The ocean is magnificent on its own, you don’t need to leave your mark for others to see.
Protect Your Skin And The Coral
We all know the importance of protecting our skin from harmful UV rays, but many sunscreen products contain oxybenzone, which damages coral DNA. The result is an inability for coral to reproduce, susceptibility to coral bleaching and coral deformities. The importance of healthy coral in the ocean is similar to the importance of oxygen for land animals. Coral reefs are the home of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet.
The solution for anyone who will be in the water is to use coral safe sunscreen. Also, wearing UV protective gear such as treated rash guards and shorts, wet suits, and skins will significantly reduce the number of chemical products on your skin and in the ocean. This is a healthy solution for you and for the ocean.
Be An Ambassador For The Ocean
As a person who loves the ocean, and understands the delicate balance between man and nature, share your knowledge with others. While it is true that one person can make a difference, each person can share his or her knowledge and connection to the ocean with numerous friends and family members. Now your positive impact becomes exponential. And to reach an even more significant number of people, take to social media to promote activities like beach and ocean clean-up dates and locations, awareness projects, and simple lifestyle choices that will benefit the ocean and the entire world. It is up to those of us who understand the value and significance of the ocean to protect what we love.