It goes without saying that the oceans are a vitally important life source. In addition to covering over 70% of the Earth’s surface, they host 80% of biodiversity on the planet and produce at least half of the world’s oxygen. As we embark upon our long-term partnership with Oceana, we’ve been newly inspire to learn more not just about the significance of oceans, but about the individual changes we can make to help protect them. Because while it’s true that large-scale impact will depend on implementing the kind of science-based policies Oceana advocates for, we know from experience that it’s always better to do something than to do nothing at all. Furthermore, if enough people commit to these small changes, they will add up. Read on to find out how you can join in.
1. Eat Sustainable Seafood
As with any animal product, the most sustainable option when it comes to seafood is to avoid consuming it at all. However, we know that’s not a realistic option for most people. The good news is that you can still make a difference by simply eating less seafood—and making the most sustainable choices possible when you do. We rounded up a few of our favorite resources and tips for sustainable seafood shopping here.
2. Rethink Your Plastic Consumption
It’s no secret that plastic is one of the greatest threats oceans and marine life face today. In fact, according to Oceana, an estimated 33 billion pounds of plastic leaks into the marine environment from land-based sources every year—that’s roughly equivalent to dumping two garbage trucks full of plastic into our oceans every minute.
You can help minimize your personal impact by buying plastic-free goods whenever possible, and making the effort to reuse or recycle any plastic you do purchase. Avoid single-use plastics like takeout containers, straws, plastic cutlery, plastic bags, and coffee cups by bringing your own reusable alternatives, and reach out to brands you love to ask what they’re doing to reduce the amount of virgin plastic they create.
3. Advocate for Oceans
Our oceans—and the plant and animal life they support—can’t speak for themselves, which means it’s up to us to speak for them. Call your representatives and ask what they’re doing to protect the oceans, or let them know about a planet-friendly policy you hope they’ll support. And next time an election rolls around, do some research to find out which candidate supports the ocean policies you’d like to see implemented.
Of course, advocating for causes we care about doesn’t just happen at the political level. Share your concerns with your friends and family, and let them know what changes you’re making in your own life to help protect and preserve the oceans. Several studies and surveys have suggested that people are more likely to make eco-friendly changes when they see people around them doing so.
4. “Leave No Trace”
Few things inspire us to protect the natural wonders of our world like experiencing them firsthand. But as we do so, it’s important to remember that the ideal result is that they leave an impact on us—not the other way around. The National Parks Service’s Leave No Trace Seven Principles offer a start-to-finish guide for staying mindful of your actions on your next trip to the great outdoors. This is a particularly useful reminder as many of us gear up for summer beach trips. When you pack up for the day, double check to make sure you haven’t left any litter or belongings behind. Avoid overstuffed beach trash cans by bringing along your own trash bags so that you can safely dispose of waste at home, rather than risk it blowing away.
5. Think Big Picture
Generally speaking, the things we can do to help the planet at large will help the ocean, too. Renew your efforts to take the simple steps most of us are familiar with—things like opting for public transportation or biking over driving a car, turning off the lights when you leave a room, and reducing your consumption of animal products. They might not feel like much, but as we said, these small changes add up!