Minimizing Marine Pollution: Strategies For A Sustainable Future

Marine pollution is a pressing issue that poses a threat to the health of our planet, wildlife, and humans. With plastic production skyrocketing and an estimated 75 to 199 million tons of plastic currently polluting our oceans, it is essential to address this issue. The impact of marine pollution extends beyond the environmental consequences, as it also affects fisheries, coastlines, tourism, and the food we consume. To combat this, a range of interventions can be implemented, including improving wastewater management, stormwater management, and adopting eco-friendly practices. Individual actions, such as reducing single-use plastic, recycling, and supporting beach clean-up initiatives, are also crucial in tackling this global issue.

Reduce plastic production and waste

Marine plastic pollution is a pressing issue, with plastic posing a serious danger to marine life and ecosystems. To reduce plastic production and waste, here are some detailed, direct, and instructive actions that can be taken:

Reduce Single-Use Plastic Consumption

One of the most effective ways to reduce plastic waste is to limit the use of single-use plastics. These include plastic bags, water bottles, straws, disposable cutlery, coffee cup lids, plastic wrap, dry cleaning bags, and takeout containers. Instead, opt for reusable alternatives such as cloth bags, water bottles, utensils, and containers. Refuse single-use plastic items whenever possible, and support businesses that offer eco-friendly alternatives.

Support Legislation and Initiatives

Advocate for and support legislation that aims to reduce plastic production and improve waste management. This includes supporting policies that ban or tax single-use plastic items, such as the Break Free From Plastic Pollution Act in the United States. Get involved in local, national, and international initiatives, like the global plastics treaty signed by 175 United Nations member states.

Proper Waste Disposal and Recycling

Properly dispose of plastics and recycle whenever possible. Check with local recycling programs to understand what types of plastic they accept. Avoid plastics that cannot be recycled, and choose products with minimal packaging. Support container deposit schemes where you can return used containers for money, helping to keep plastic out of landfills.

Participate in Beach Cleanups and Volunteer Work

Get involved in beach or river cleanups to remove plastic waste from marine environments. Volunteer for organizations dedicated to reducing plastic pollution, such as the Marine Conservation Society, and participate in campaigns and petitions to drive political change.

Avoid Products with Microplastics

Microplastics are tiny plastic particles that are harmful to marine life and can end up in our food chain. Avoid products containing microbeads, often found in face scrubs, toothpastes, and body washes. Be cautious when purchasing cosmetics, as many contain microplastics. Choose natural alternatives for exfoliation, like oatmeal or salt.

Support Sustainable Businesses

As a consumer, support businesses that are committed to reducing plastic waste. Reuse existing plastic items whenever possible, and opt for products with minimal or recyclable packaging. Choose products made from recycled plastic materials, and consider purchasing second-hand plastic items to extend their lifespan.

Improve wastewater systems

Improving wastewater systems is crucial in reducing marine pollution. Here are some ways to achieve this:

Upgrade Infrastructure

The current wastewater infrastructure in many places is outdated and unable to handle the waste generated by a growing population. Upgrading and modernizing these systems is essential to ensure effective waste management. This includes investing in new technologies and equipment to treat wastewater properly before it is released into the environment.

Reduce Plastic Waste

Plastics are a significant component of wastewater, and their presence has detrimental effects on marine life and ecosystems. By reducing plastic waste, we can minimize the amount entering the ocean through wastewater discharge. This involves encouraging the use of reusable products, such as water bottles, containers, and bags, instead of single-use plastic items. Individuals can make conscious choices to refuse single-use plastics and support legislation that discourages plastic waste and promotes recycling.

Properly Treat Wastewater

Untreated or inadequately treated wastewater contains various pollutants, including plastics, chemicals, and contaminants, which pose risks to both the environment and human health. It is crucial to ensure that wastewater is properly treated to remove these harmful substances before discharge. This involves implementing effective treatment processes, such as advanced filtration and disinfection methods, to eliminate or reduce the concentration of pollutants.

Regulate Contaminants

Wastewater often contains contaminants, such as herbicides, pesticides, cleaning products, and pharmaceuticals, which can have toxic effects on marine life. Regulating and controlling the use of these contaminants is essential. This includes promoting the use of eco-friendly and non-toxic alternatives, proper disposal of hazardous substances, and implementing strict guidelines for industries to treat their wastewater effectively before discharge.

Monitor and Measure Progress

Ongoing monitoring and measurement of wastewater quality and treatment processes are crucial to ensure that improvements are effective. Regular water quality testing and analysis can help identify any issues or areas that require further attention. This data can then be used to make informed decisions and implement targeted solutions to address specific problems, ensuring that wastewater discharged into marine environments meets the required standards.

Advocate for Policy Change

Individuals can play a role in advocating for policy changes that prioritize wastewater management and environmental protection. This includes supporting legislation that invests in wastewater infrastructure upgrades, promotes sustainable practices, and holds industries accountable for their wastewater treatment practices. By engaging with local and national policymakers, individuals can help drive the necessary changes to reduce marine pollution from wastewater sources.

Use eco-friendly products

Using eco-friendly products is a direct and effective way to reduce marine pollution. The production and use of plastic, coupled with poor waste management, contribute significantly to the plastic pollution that ends up in our oceans. By embracing eco-friendly alternatives, we can play a crucial role in mitigating this crisis. Here are some detailed suggestions for eco-friendly products to incorporate into your daily life:

Reusable Shopping Bags

Single-use plastic bags are a major contributor to plastic pollution, posing a severe threat to the environment and wildlife. Switching to reusable shopping bags made from sustainable materials such as cotton, jute, or recycled PET plastic is a simple yet impactful step. These bags not only help reduce the demand for single-use plastic bags but also promote sustainability and conservation. They are durable, cost-effective, and easy to clean, making them a convenient and environmentally conscious choice.

Stainless Steel Water Bottles

Making the switch to a stainless steel water bottle is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and combat the plastic waste crisis. Stainless steel bottles are BPA-free, durable, and capable of maintaining the temperature of your beverages for extended periods. They offer a more sustainable alternative to single-use plastic water bottles, which contribute to the vast amount of plastic waste ending up in our oceans.

Bamboo Toothbrushes

Traditional plastic toothbrushes are replaced frequently and take centuries to decompose. Bamboo toothbrushes offer a more eco-friendly alternative as bamboo is a biodegradable and renewable resource. Additionally, bamboo toothbrushes often feature bristles made from more environmentally friendly materials, further reducing their environmental impact. By making this simple switch, you can minimize your plastic waste and support sustainable practices.

Cloth Diapers

Disposable diapers are a significant source of plastic waste. Cloth diapers, on the other hand, are a sustainable and cost-effective alternative. While they require an initial investment, they can be reused for multiple children, making them more economical in the long run. Modern cloth diapers are designed with easy-to-use fasteners and moisture-wicking materials, ensuring a comfortable and practical option for babies.

Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products

Conventional cleaning products often contain harmful chemicals and contribute to plastic packaging waste. Eco-friendly cleaning products provide a more sustainable solution as they are packaged in recyclable or biodegradable containers, reducing the burden on landfills and oceans. These products utilize natural, non-toxic ingredients that are safe for both your family and the planet, without compromising on cleaning effectiveness.

Stainless Steel Straws

Plastic straws have a detrimental impact on marine life. Stainless steel straws offer a durable and reusable alternative. Crafted from food-grade stainless steel, they can withstand countless uses and come in various shapes and sizes to cater to different beverage preferences. By embracing stainless steel straws, you can make a simple yet meaningful change to protect our oceans and marine ecosystems.

Reusable Food Storage

Single-use plastic wrap and containers contribute significantly to plastic waste. Reusable food storage options, such as glass containers, silicone baking mats, and reusable sandwich wrappers, offer sustainable alternatives. These products are durable, easy to clean, and suitable for a variety of food storage needs. By choosing reusable options, you can significantly reduce the amount of plastic waste generated and contribute to a more eco-friendly lifestyle.

Eco-Friendly Personal Care Products

There are numerous eco-friendly alternatives to traditional personal care products that contribute to plastic waste. This includes bamboo hairbrushes, shampoo bars, reusable makeup remover pads, natural deodorants, safety razors, and biodegradable dental floss. These products reduce plastic waste, incorporate natural and biodegradable materials, and provide safe and effective alternatives for your personal care routine.

Eco-Friendly Clothing and Accessories

The fashion industry also plays a role in marine pollution, particularly through the use of synthetic fibers. By choosing clothing made from natural fibers such as organic cotton and wool, you can reduce the amount of microplastics entering our oceans. Additionally, accessories made from sustainable materials such as hemp and cork can further reduce your environmental impact. Upcycled jewelry, made from repurposed materials, is another unique and eco-conscious option.

Sustainable Home and Garden Products

There are also eco-friendly alternatives for various home and garden products. For example, natural insecticides, made from plant-based ingredients, are safe for the environment and human consumption. Compost bins streamline the composting process, reducing food waste and creating nutrient-rich soil. Solar-powered chargers and energy-efficient appliances, such as LED light bulbs, help reduce energy consumption and your carbon footprint.

By incorporating these eco-friendly products into your daily life, you can make a significant impact in reducing marine pollution. These choices not only benefit the environment but also contribute to a more sustainable and healthy future for all.

Reduce chemical pollution

Marine pollution is a combination of chemicals and trash, with most pollution coming from land sources. Chemical contamination, or nutrient pollution, occurs when human activities, such as the use of fertilisers on farms, lead to the runoff of chemicals into waterways that flow into the ocean. This type of pollution is concerning for health, environmental, and economic reasons.

Reduce the use of single-use plastics

Single-use plastics include plastic bags, water bottles, straws, cups, utensils, dry cleaning bags, takeout containers, and any other plastic items that are used once and then discarded. Refuse any single-use plastics that you do not need, and purchase and carry reusable versions of these products, such as reusable grocery bags, produce bags, bottles, utensils, and coffee cups.

Support legislation to curb plastic production and waste

While changing individual behaviours is important, it is also necessary to support legislation that reduces plastic production, improves waste management, and holds plastic producers responsible for the waste they generate. Get involved in local, national, and international initiatives to advocate for laws and policies that address plastic pollution.

Participate in beach or river cleanups

Join or organise cleanups of your local beach or waterway to help remove plastics from the ocean and prevent them from reaching the ocean in the first place. This is a direct and rewarding way to fight ocean plastic pollution.

Avoid products containing microbeads

Microbeads are tiny plastic particles found in some face scrubs, toothpastes, and body washes. These microbeads easily enter our oceans and waterways through sewer systems and affect hundreds of marine species. Avoid products containing microbeads by checking ingredient lists for "polyethylene" and "polypropylene".

Choose non-toxic chemicals and dispose of hazardous waste properly

Select nontoxic chemicals whenever possible, and make sure to properly dispose of herbicides, pesticides, and cleaning products. Many household chemicals can be hazardous, so follow local guidelines for proper disposal to prevent them from ending up in the ocean.

Conserve water

Using less water helps to reduce excess runoff and wastewater from flowing into the ocean. This simple action can have a positive impact on marine life and ecosystems.

Manage oil spills

Oil spills are becoming more common and can have devastating effects on the environment and ecosystems. Oil spills happen for a number of reasons, from minor spills when a ship is being refuelled, to major incidents when a pipeline breaks, a tanker sinks or runs aground, or a drilling operation goes wrong.

There are a number of ways to manage and clean up oil spills, but no method is perfect and each has its own risks and downsides. Here are some of the most common methods used to manage oil spills:

Containment and Skimming

Floating booms are often used to contain oil spills. These are physical barriers that float on the water and stop the oil from spreading. Once the oil is contained, it can be skimmed off the top of the water using modified boats. While this method is effective in calm waters, it becomes harder to manage when the oil has spread out or reached the shoreline.

Sorbents

Sorbents are materials that absorb oil while repelling water. They are often used in small spills or to remove the last bits of oil after a major cleanup. Natural organic sorbents include feathers, sawdust, or peat moss, while natural inorganic sorbents such as clay or sand are highly absorbent but cannot be used on the water surface. Synthetic sorbents, such as polyurethane and polyethylene, are the most absorbent option.

Skimming

A special skimmer device can be pulled over the top of the water to collect the oil. The skimmer uses a moving medium that attracts the oil, collects it, and then scrapes it off into collection tanks. This method is cost-efficient and effective, often used after booms have contained the spill.

Hot Water and High-Pressure Washing

Hot water can be used to remove oil from shorelines, but it must be done carefully as it can cause further contamination and be dangerous to wildlife. It can also be used to wash oil off beaches and rocks, where it can then be collected by skimmers or other methods.

Burning

As oil burns and floats on water, it can be set on fire to eliminate it. While this method rapidly dissipates the oil, it also causes air pollution and only works when the oil is at least 2-3 millimetres thick. It cannot be used in choppy waters or high winds.

Gelatin Treatment (Elastomizers)

Gelatin can be sprayed over oil spills to clear up the water. The gelatin encases the oil, and bacteria then biodegrade it within a few days to a month and a half, depending on the temperature. This method is not yet widely used and there is a risk that the encapsulated oil could be ingested by sea creatures.

Bacteria

There are bacteria that eat hydrocarbons, which oil is made of. By containing the oil spill and then adding these bacteria, the oil can be broken down rapidly and rendered harmless. This method can also be used on sand or soil that has been used as a sorbent to collect the oil.

Natural Recovery

In some cases, nature may be left to run its course. Oil-consuming microbes found in wetlands, marshes, and grass will eventually break down the oil, rendering it harmless to the environment. However, this process can take months, and the effects on wildlife may take years to resolve.

Frequently asked questions