A Normal Hero's Guide To Stopping Ocean Plastic Pollution

Plastic pollution is a pressing issue, with an estimated 8 million pieces of plastic entering our oceans daily. The impact of plastic pollution is far-reaching, affecting marine life, human health, and the environment. While it may seem like a daunting task, individuals can play a crucial role in mitigating this global crisis by adopting a few simple habits. One of the most effective ways to reduce plastic pollution is to minimise the use of single-use plastics, such as plastic bags, bottles, and straws, and switch to reusable alternatives. Additionally, individuals can support organisations working to clean up our oceans and advocate for legislation to curb plastic production and improve waste management. By making conscious choices and supporting collective efforts, we can all contribute to tackling the plastic pollution crisis and protecting our planet for future generations.

Reduce single-use plastic

Reducing single-use plastic is one of the most effective ways to tackle plastic pollution in the ocean. Single-use plastics, such as plastic bags, water bottles, straws, cups, utensils, dry cleaning bags, takeout containers, and plastic packaging, are used once and then discarded, often ending up in our oceans and causing severe harm to marine life and ecosystems.

Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle

The four Rs—refuse, reuse, reduce, and recycle—are essential to reducing single-use plastic pollution. Refuse any single-use plastics that you do not need, such as straws, plastic bags, and takeout utensils. Instead, carry and reuse reusable alternatives, such as grocery bags, produce bags, bottles, utensils, coffee cups, and garment bags.

Support Legislation and Policies

Support local, national, and international legislation aimed at reducing single-use plastic production and waste. Advocate for policies that ban, tax, or limit unnecessary single-use plastic items, such as plastic bags, takeout containers, and bottles. These policies encourage alternatives and help shift consumer mindsets towards more sustainable options.

Boycott Products with Microbeads

Avoid purchasing products containing microbeads, such as facial scrubs, toothpaste, and body washes. These tiny plastic particles slip through water treatment plants and are often ingested by marine animals, causing serious health issues. Opt for natural exfoliants like oatmeal or salt instead.

Buy in Bulk and Eco-Friendly Packaging

Choose bulk items with eco-friendly packaging over individually packaged goods. Buying in bulk reduces the amount of plastic packaging used and helps you make more sustainable choices. Look for products in non-plastic packaging, such as glass jars, whenever possible.

Choose Reusable Water Bottles

Close to 20 billion plastic bottles are thrown away each year. By carrying a reusable water bottle, you can significantly reduce the number of plastic bottles that end up in the trash and, ultimately, our oceans. Reusable bottles are also a safer and more cost-effective option.

By adopting these habits and making conscious choices, individuals can play a crucial role in reducing single-use plastic pollution and protecting our oceans and marine life for future generations.

Avoid products with microplastics

Microplastics are everywhere, from drinking water to food and even the air we breathe. While it is nearly impossible to avoid them completely, there are several ways to reduce your exposure to them.

One of the most common sources of microplastics is bottled water. To avoid this, switch to tap water and use an NSF-certified water filter, which has been specifically tested to reduce microplastics. If you must use bottled water, opt for a reusable steel or glass bottle instead of plastic.

Another significant source of microplastics is plastic food storage. Avoid storing food or liquids in plastic containers, especially when exposed to high heat. Instead, use glass or ceramic containers, which are safer alternatives. Similarly, avoid microwaving or heating food or water in plastic, even if labelled "microwave-safe".

Plastic cutting boards can also release microplastics into your food. It is recommended to use wooden or bamboo cutting boards instead, as they are safer and more durable.

Synthetic clothing made from materials such as polyester, polyamide, and nylon can shed microplastic fibres during washing, contributing to water pollution. Opt for natural fibre clothing made from cotton or hemp instead.

Finally, be mindful of cosmetic products containing microplastics, such as synthetic makeup and exfoliants containing microbeads. Choose products with natural ingredients and plastic-free packaging whenever possible.

Volunteer for cleanups

Volunteering for cleanups is a fantastic way to get involved in the fight against plastic pollution. Beach and river cleanups are essential as they prevent plastic from reaching the ocean and becoming part of the seabed ecosystem. By participating in cleanups, you can make a direct and rewarding impact on reducing plastic pollution.

There are several ways to get involved with cleanups. Firstly, you can join local cleanups organised by environmental organisations or charities. The Ocean Conservancy, Surfrider Foundation, American Littoral Society, and Ocean Blue Project are just a few examples of organisations that regularly arrange beach cleanups for volunteers. The Marine Conservation Society also hosts an annual UK-wide cleanup event called the Great British Beach Clean, which combines litter picking with data collection to better understand the plastic pollution crisis.

If you want to take a more active role, you can organise your own cleanup. Here are some steps to help you get started:

• Identify a cleanup location and scope out the area beforehand. Beaches and riverbanks are great locations to target as these are areas where plastic pollution is most concentrated.
• Gather supplies, such as containers for collecting trash, gloves, and trash grabbers. You can also contact your local municipality for donations of food, drinks, and additional supplies.
• Plan how you will handle the collected trash, especially recyclables and hazardous waste. Contact your local waste management facilities to understand their capabilities and any specific requirements they may have for trash collection.
• Recruit volunteers by creating an online event and spreading the word through social media, community groups, or local schools and organisations.
• During the cleanup, ensure that health and safety guidelines are followed, and appropriate protective gear is worn.

By volunteering for cleanups, you can make a tangible difference in your community and help protect marine life and ecosystems from the devastating effects of plastic pollution.

Support charities tackling plastic pollution

There are many charities that are working to tackle plastic pollution, and you can support them in a variety of ways. Here are some examples of charities and how you can help:

Surfrider Foundation

The Surfrider Foundation is one of the largest grassroots organisations fighting to end plastic pollution in the US. They advocate for sustainable product alternatives and fight for bans and ordinances on single-use plastics. They have won over 330 legislative victories relating to plastic pollution and hosted over 2,000 beach clean-ups, removing over 650,000 pounds of trash. You can support them by donating to and petitioning for their campaigns online, or by joining their network of volunteer chapters.

The 5 Gyres Institute

The 5 Gyres Institute is a leader in the global movement against plastic pollution through scientific research. They conduct research expeditions and utilise data to educate and engage the public, applying their findings to reach data-driven solutions. The 5 Gyres Institute has conducted 19 research expeditions, leading to the publication of 25 scientific journals, papers, and studies. You can support them by donating or hosting a peer-to-peer fundraiser.

The Story of Stuff Project

The Story of Stuff Project educates and empowers civic engagement through grassroots grants, sponsoring campaigns against corporate plastic polluters. They have allocated over $200,000 of funding to more than 70 grassroots organisations and their films have raised awareness with over 50 million online views. You can support them by donating online or via check, taking the plastic-free pledge, organising a brand audit, or signing their campaign petitions.

Plastic Oceans

Plastic Oceans is an international leader in creating global change through localised education, advocacy, action, and science programs. They sponsor projects that create change in consumer behaviour, corporate practices, and public policy, such as activist programs and global campaigns. Their award-winning film, "A Plastic Ocean," fueled massive social impact during the UN Collaboration on World Oceans Day. You can contribute to Plastic Oceans through their incentivised donation program, volunteering, bringing their educational programs to your community, or signing the Think Reusable – Not Disposable Pledge.

Surfers Against Sewage

Surfers Against Sewage is a UK-based grassroots charity that began in 1990 as a response to the poor state of UK beaches. They have created a nationwide network of ocean activists and their top priority is tackling plastic waste or 'new sewage' covering beaches and oceans. They have achieved successes such as creating a nationwide 'Plastic Free Schools' program and being a founding member of the Break the Bag Habit Coalition, which campaigned for a 5p charge on single-use carrier bags. You can support them through donations and volunteering.

Marine Conservation Society

The Marine Conservation Society has been advocating for a cleaner and healthier ocean for over 30 years. One of their current campaigns is #StopOceanThreat, which aims to get all washing machine manufacturers to fit microfibre filters to new machines by 2023, preventing microplastics from reaching the seas. They also provide a 'Good Fish Guide' to inform the public about sustainable fishing practices. You can support them through donations and volunteering.

Friends of the Earth

Friends of the Earth is one of the largest environmental campaigning communities in the UK. They lead campaigns to change legislation, provide resources and information, and develop real solutions to issues impacting the environment. They recently launched the Plastic Pollution Bill, calling for the UK government to phase out plastic pollution and stop the flow of plastic into waterways and oceans. You can support them through donations, volunteering, and spreading awareness.

Reduce chemical pollutants

Chemical pollution is one of the leading causes of ocean pollution. It often occurs when non-point pollution, or runoff, infiltrates the soil with water, causing excess water (containing pollutants like pesticides) to flow into rivers and streams, which eventually reach the ocean.

Regulate the use of fertilisers and pesticides

One way to reduce the amount of harmful chemicals entering the ocean is to control the use of fertilisers, pesticides, and other chemicals commonly used in agriculture and landscaping. On an individual level, you can challenge the cultural norms around having a perfectly manicured lawn and opt for harmless, natural alternatives in your garden.

Promote alternative methods of agriculture and landscaping

You can also advocate for alternative methods of agriculture and landscaping to help reduce the use of harmful chemicals. Shopping for organic produce reduces the demand for products from farms that rely heavily on chemicals, benefiting both the environment and your health.

Choose non-toxic cleaning and self-care products

Many traditional cleaning products and self-care items contain harmful chemicals that can end up in the ocean and damage marine life. Opt for eco-friendly, biodegradable, and non-toxic alternatives instead.

Conserve water

Excess runoff and wastewater can flow into the ocean, carrying pollutants. By conserving water, you can help reduce the amount of wastewater entering the ocean.

Dispose of chemicals properly

Always dispose of herbicides, pesticides, and cleaning products properly. Check with your local waste management guidelines to ensure you are disposing of these items correctly and reducing the risk of chemical pollution.

By following these steps and making conscious choices, individuals can play a crucial role in reducing chemical pollution and protecting the health of our oceans.

Frequently asked questions