Ocean Pollution: Reducing Human Impact

The ocean is a major target for pollution, with plastic being one of the greatest threats to ocean health. Each year, up to 13 million metric tons of plastic enter the ocean, posing a grave danger to marine life and ecosystems. The impact of plastic pollution on marine life is devastating, with creatures from tiny zooplankton to whales choking on plastic pieces that they mistake for food.

However, there are several ways to reduce ocean pollution and mitigate its harmful effects. Firstly, individuals can reduce their use of single-use plastics, such as plastic bags, straws, and disposable utensils, and switch to reusable alternatives. Additionally, proper waste disposal and recycling practices are crucial. Improving wastewater management and stormwater management can also play a significant role in reducing plastic and other ocean pollutants. It is important to address the root causes of ocean pollution, such as a lack of access to proper sanitation and inefficient resource use. By adopting more sustainable practices and supporting legislation to curb plastic production and waste, we can make a significant difference in reducing ocean pollution.

Conserve water

Conserving water is a critical step in reducing ocean pollution. When we use less water, we generate less wastewater, which means less runoff flows into the ocean. This is important because when wastewater treatment systems are overloaded, they can fail to adequately treat sewage before discharging it into the ocean or local waterways.

There are several ways to conserve water and reduce the strain on wastewater treatment systems. Firstly, fix any leaky plumbing. A single leaky toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day. Install low-flow or water-efficient showerheads and toilets to reduce water usage. You can also place a toilet dam or plastic bottle in your toilet tank to displace some water and reduce the volume of water used per flush. Check your toilet for "silent" leaks by placing food colouring in the tank and seeing if it leaks into the bowl.

Secondly, adopt water-saving habits in your daily routine. Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth or shaving. Take shorter showers and draw less water for baths. When doing laundry, run your washing machine with a full load of clothes and opt for cold water washes when possible. Hang your clothes to dry instead of using a dryer. Keep a gallon of drinking water in the refrigerator instead of running the tap for cold water.

Thirdly, make water-conscious choices in your outdoor spaces. Landscape irrigation accounts for a significant portion of household water use, and excess irrigation can run off into the street, picking up pollution and carrying it into storm drains and eventually the ocean. Reduce grass-covered areas and opt for drought-tolerant plants and grasses. Water your plants in the evening or early morning to minimize evaporation. If possible, direct your rain gutters and downspouts into your landscape to use rainwater for irrigation.

Reduce pollutants

Reducing ocean pollution is a pressing issue that requires action on both an individual and systemic level. While individual actions can make a difference, tackling the root causes of ocean pollution demands collective efforts and policy changes. Here are some ways to reduce pollutants and minimise the impact on our oceans:

Reduce Single-Use Plastics

Single-use plastics, such as plastic bags, water bottles, straws, cups, utensils, and takeaway containers, are a significant source of ocean pollution. Refuse single-use plastics whenever possible and opt for reusable alternatives. Carry your own reusable bags, water bottles, coffee mugs, and utensils. Support businesses that avoid plastic packaging and straws, and let companies know that you want them to reduce their plastic waste.

Support Legislation and Corporate Responsibility

Advocate for and support legislation that curbs plastic production and improves waste management. This includes regulations to ban or limit single-use plastics and policies that hold plastic producers responsible for the waste they generate. Demand that corporations take responsibility for plastic pollution and move towards more sustainable packaging and delivery methods. Sign petitions, spread awareness, and join organisations working to reduce plastic pollution.

Proper Disposal and Recycling

Dispose of herbicides, pesticides, and cleaning products properly. Avoid hazardous materials and choose non-toxic chemicals whenever possible. Recycle materials such as paper, plastic, metal, and glass. Buy products that are easily recyclable or made from recycled materials. However, it's important to note that recycling alone cannot solve the plastic pollution problem, and a fundamental shift in corporate practices is necessary.

Reduce Nutrient Pollution

Excess nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus from fertilisers and sewage can cause harmful algal blooms, leading to oxygen depletion and the creation of "dead zones" in coastal waters. Reduce the use of fertilisers and support improved wastewater management systems. Advocate for policies that regulate the use of nutrients and pesticides to prevent them from entering our oceans.

Avoid Products with Microbeads

Microbeads are tiny plastic particles found in some face scrubs, toothpastes, and body washes. These microplastics easily enter our oceans and waterways and affect marine life. Avoid products containing microbeads by checking ingredient labels for "polyethylene" and "polypropylene".

Reduce waste

Reducing waste is one of the most important ways to decrease ocean pollution. Plastic pollution is one of the greatest threats to ocean health, with up to 12 million metric tons of plastic entering the ocean each year. This plastic waste affects marine life, from sea turtles to coral reefs, and has been found in the seafood we consume.

To reduce waste, it is essential to cut down on single-use plastics. This includes items such as plastic bags, water bottles, straws, cups, utensils, and takeaway containers. Instead, opt for reusable alternatives like grocery bags, produce bags, bottles, utensils, and coffee cups. Refuse single-use plastic items whenever possible and support businesses that offer sustainable options. Encourage corporations to move away from a throw-away culture and demand they take responsibility for their plastic waste.

Another way to reduce waste is to improve waste management practices. This involves developing sustainable waste disposal infrastructure, especially for communities lacking access to controlled waste disposal facilities. Additionally, implementing recycling programs and providing incentives for waste segregation can help reduce the amount of waste that ends up in the ocean.

Individuals can also contribute by reducing their overall consumption and choosing products with minimal packaging or eco-friendly packaging. Buying products made from recycled materials and recycling items whenever possible are also crucial steps in reducing waste.

By combining these efforts, we can significantly reduce the amount of waste that ends up in our oceans and mitigate the harmful effects of pollution on marine ecosystems.

Use less energy

Using less energy is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and, in turn, reduce ocean pollution. Here are some ways to use less energy in your daily life:

Choose energy-efficient appliances and lighting

When it comes to appliances like refrigerators, washing machines, and dishwashers, opt for energy-efficient models. Look for the Energy Star label when purchasing new appliances. This label indicates that the appliance uses less energy and can help you save money on your utility bills. Similarly, switch to energy-efficient light bulbs, such as LED bulbs, which consume significantly less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs.

Adjust your thermostat

Be mindful of your energy use for heating and cooling. In the winter, set your thermostat to a slightly cooler temperature, and in the summer, opt for a slightly warmer setting. By reducing the frequency and intensity of heating and cooling, you can conserve energy and lower your carbon emissions.

Practice energy-saving habits

There are many simple habits you can adopt to use less energy. Turn off lights and appliances when not in use. Unplug chargers once your devices are fully charged. Use power strips, and turn them off when the connected devices are not in use. These small actions can collectively make a significant difference in reducing your energy consumption.

Embrace renewable energy sources

If possible, consider investing in renewable energy sources, such as solar panels or wind power. Generating your own clean energy can drastically reduce your reliance on fossil fuels and decrease your carbon footprint. Additionally, look into green power programs offered by your utility company, which allow you to purchase renewable energy or support the development of renewable energy sources.

Improve home insulation

A well-insulated home can help retain heat during winters and keep your home cool in summers, reducing the need for excessive heating or cooling. Focus on insulating your attic, walls, and crawl spaces. Seal any gaps or cracks around doors and windows to prevent air leaks and improve the energy efficiency of your home.

By implementing these energy-saving measures, you can not only reduce your contribution to ocean pollution but also play a part in mitigating climate change and conserving natural resources. Remember, even small changes in your daily habits can have a positive impact on the health of our oceans and the planet.

Fish responsibly

Fishing is a popular activity that many people enjoy, but it is important to remember that it is an activity that can have a significant impact on the environment. Here are some tips to help you fish responsibly and minimise your impact on marine ecosystems:

Know the Regulations

It is important to familiarise yourself with the fishing regulations in your area before you go out. These regulations are in place to protect fish populations and maintain a healthy ecosystem. Be aware of any size limits, catch limits, and seasonal restrictions that may be in place. Ignoring these regulations can lead to overfishing and harm vulnerable species. Make sure you are well-informed about how to identify fish species and how to tell if they are wild or from a hatchery.

Choose Sustainable Gear

The gear you use can have a significant impact on the health of fish populations and the marine ecosystem. Avoid using destructive gear, such as dynamite or cyanide, which can have catastrophic effects on fish populations and habitats. Opt for selective gear that helps to reduce bycatch and minimise the capture of non-target species. For example, using larger mesh sizes in nets allows smaller or non-target species to escape. Use non-lead fishing weights whenever possible, as lead is toxic. Also, consider using biodegradable or eco-friendly materials for your fishing lines and other gear components.

Practice Responsible Handling

Whether you plan to keep or release the fish you catch, it is important to handle them with care. If you are keeping fish, only keep what you will actually use and consume. For catch-and-release fishing, use wet hands or gloves to minimise damage to their protective slime layer. Avoid playing the fish to exhaustion, as it reduces their chances of survival. If you are taking a photo, cradle the fish at water level and be quick. Keep the fish submerged at all times, and when releasing, gently move the fish back and forth under the surface to get water running through its gills until it swims away.

Respect the Habitat

Healthy habitats are crucial for the survival of fish and other marine life. Respect and protect the environment by cleaning and drying your equipment and boats between trips to prevent the spread of invasive species. When fishing, do not crowd other anglers or impede their experience. Be mindful of private property and always ask permission before entering or fishing on private land. Understand and follow the local customs and practices associated with the fishery.

Prevent Waste

Fishing gear and waste can be hazardous to birds and other wildlife, so be careful not to discard anything in the water. Try to retrieve as much of your gear as possible, and carry a trash bag to pack out your trash. If you see litter, remove it if it is safe to do so. Properly dispose of any fish waste in open, unrestricted water or at sea if state regulations allow. Never toss fish waste in a marina basin.

Frequently asked questions