Combating Ocean Pollution: Reducing Chemical Contamination

Chemical pollution is the contamination of the marine environment with harmful, artificial or anthropogenic pollutants. Over 80% of ocean pollution comes from land-based activities, either from deliberate dumping or run-off from rivers and drains, including sewage.

The most common chemical pollutants include pesticides and herbicides, detergents and other household products, and industrial chemicals. These pollutants introduce excessive nutrients, toxins, poisons, and metals into marine ecosystems, and can cause chemical bioaccumulation through the marine food web.

The transportation, distribution, and consequential impact to marine ecosystems is dependent on the individual pollutant. For example, the initial ecological responses to fertiliser and nutrient input in the ocean seems beneficial, but the knock-on effects and longer-term impacts shift from beneficial to entirely detrimental on a marine ecosystem. Fertilisers and sewage that contaminate ocean water provide excess nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus in a form that is highly beneficial to marine phytoplankton. This creates huge algal blooms that can frequently be seen from space by satellite imaging. The growth and reproduction bloom of phytoplankton allows higher levels of the food web to benefit temporarily: zooplankton consume the abundant phytoplankton and small fishes consume the zooplankton. More predatory fish or marine mammals then consume the small fish. This increase in populations results in an increase in animal waste and faeces; it also results in a natural increase in mortality.

Another effect of the algal bloom on the sea surface is the reduction of sunlight reaching plants on the seafloor. This initiates mass mortality of seafloor plant species. The vast increase in waste and corpses end up on the seafloor where aerobic bacteria known as decomposers break it down. This process requires oxygen which is extracted from the water in great quantities. A reduction of oxygen levels in these areas causes more mobile animals to move away and less mobile animals to die, providing yet more material for the decomposers. When oxygen levels become minimal, the environment is classed as anoxic, in these conditions, the only organisms that may survive there are algal blooms and anaerobic bacteria as they are able to decompose matter without the need for oxygen. At this point, the area is known as a dead zone: an area that can support no life but anaerobic bacteria.

Pesticides, specifically those that are classed as organochlorides, are comprised of compounds that are not readily degradable and have now been detected in a wide range of species across the world. They have been found to accumulate through trophic transfer by several marine animals and are especially prevalent in top marine predators.

Industrial chemicals, such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), have been banned for years but are still contaminating our ocean. Persistent chemicals may be stored in Arctic ice and permafrost. As the climate warms and the ice melts, they are released back into the environment, posing an increased threat to marine wildlife and human health.

Reduce the use of toxic chemicals and dispose of herbicides, pesticides, and cleaning products properly

To reduce chemical pollution in the ocean, it is important to reduce the use of toxic chemicals and properly dispose of herbicides, pesticides, and cleaning products. Here are some detailed and focused instructions on how to do this:

Reduce the Use of Toxic Chemicals

• Choose nontoxic alternatives: Opt for natural, eco-friendly, or organic products that are less harmful to the environment.
• Read labels carefully: When purchasing products, read the ingredient labels to identify any toxic chemicals. Look for products with fewer or no toxic ingredients.
• Practice source reduction: This involves using products that generate less or no toxic waste. For example, choose concentrated detergents that use less packaging.
• Be mindful of your cleaning needs: Only purchase the amount of cleaning products you need. Avoid excess buying, which can lead to unnecessary chemical usage.

Properly Dispose of Herbicides and Pesticides

• Follow directions: When preparing herbicides or pesticides, only mix the amount needed for the specific job. Use any remaining or excess products according to the directions on the label.
• Reach out to your community: If you have leftover herbicides or pesticides that you cannot use, ask your neighbours or local community if they can use them.
• Check with local authorities: Contact your local solid waste management authority, environmental agency, or health department to inquire about hazardous waste collection programs for leftover herbicides or pesticides. They can also advise on any local requirements for herbicide and pesticide waste disposal.
• Never pour down drains: Avoid pouring herbicides or pesticides down sinks, toilets, sewers, or street drains. Many municipal water treatment systems may not be equipped to remove all chemical traces, leading to potential harm to aquatic life.
• Respect disposal laws: Familiarise yourself with federal, state, and local pesticide disposal laws. Ensure you comply with the strictest regulations to protect the environment effectively.

Properly Dispose of Cleaning Products

• Use them up: The best option is to completely use up the cleaning products. If you cannot, consider giving them away to someone who can use them.
• Donate unused products: Offer unused cleaning products to local charities, churches, or homeless shelters. Alternatively, let your friends and neighbours know, as they may have a use for them.
• Read the label: Before disposing of any cleaning products, read the label for specific disposal instructions. Some products may contain ingredients that should not be poured down drains, such as triclosan, which can contribute to antibiotic resistance in bacteria.
• Dispose of water-soluble products: Liquid cleaning products, such as laundry detergent or liquid disinfectant, can generally be poured down the drain with running water. The municipal waste treatment systems can handle these without issue.
• Be cautious with powders: When disposing of powdered cleaning products, pour them slowly down the drain with running water to avoid clogging.
• Check with local waste facilities: For products like furniture polish or oven cleaners, check with your local waste disposal facility for special instructions. Some may be considered hazardous waste and require specific handling.
• Recycle containers: Most cleaning product containers are recyclable. Rinse or shake out any remaining product and recycle the plastic, aerosol, or cardboard containers accordingly.

Reduce waste and shop wisely

Reduce waste

• Cut down on what you throw away.
• Choose sustainable seafood.
• Buy less plastic and bring a reusable bag.
• Choose nontoxic chemicals and dispose of herbicides, pesticides, and cleaning products properly.
• Use less energy and choose energy-efficient light bulbs.

Shop wisely

• Do your research on brands and chemicals with help from databases.
• Choose products that do not contain microplastics.
• Choose products that do not contain toxic chemicals.
• Choose products that are not harmful to the environment.

Reduce vehicle pollution and use less energy

There are many ways to reduce vehicle pollution and use less energy. Here are some tips:

• Choose fuel-efficient vehicles: When buying a new car, opt for a fuel-efficient vehicle with low greenhouse gas emissions. These cars are environmentally friendly and can also save you money on fuel costs. You can use resources like the EPA's Green Vehicle Guide to find more efficient and less polluting options, such as plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, and cleaner-burning gasoline vehicles.
• Optimize home deliveries: When shopping online, consider consolidating your packages into one shipment and choose minimal packaging options. For scheduled deliveries, be flexible with delivery times to allow delivery trucks to optimize their routes and reduce unnecessary trips.
• Use efficient lawn and gardening equipment: Opt for manual or electric-powered lawn equipment, which emit fewer pollutants than gas-powered engines.
• Reduce the miles driven: Opt for walking, biking, or using public transportation whenever possible. If you need to drive, consider carpooling or using ride-sharing services.
• Maintain your vehicle: Keep your car well-maintained by following the manufacturer's maintenance schedule and using the recommended motor oil. Regular maintenance can help reduce emissions and improve fuel efficiency.
• Drive efficiently: Go easy on the gas pedal and brakes, and follow posted speed limits to reduce fuel consumption and emissions.

Fish responsibly and practice safe boating

Fishing and boating are activities that can negatively impact ocean health. However, adopting sustainable practices can help reduce chemical pollution in the ocean. Here are some ways to fish responsibly and practice safe boating to protect our oceans:

Fish Responsibly

• Follow "catch and release" practices: Adopting this approach helps keep more fish alive and supports the conservation of fish populations.
• Avoid single-use plastics: Single-use plastic items, such as plastic forks, spoons, and knives, contribute significantly to ocean plastic pollution. Opt for reusable alternatives whenever possible.
• Properly dispose of waste: Ensure that all waste generated during fishing trips, such as fishing lines, bait containers, and food scraps, is disposed of responsibly. Do not litter or leave trash behind in natural areas.
• Choose sustainable seafood: When purchasing seafood, support sustainable fishing practices by selecting options that are caught or farmed in environmentally responsible ways.
• Educate yourself and others: Spread awareness about the impact of fishing on ocean health and encourage others to adopt sustainable fishing practices.

Practice Safe Boating

• Use alternative fuels: Opt for biodiesel or ethanol as fuel sources to reduce the environmental impact of your boat.
• Improve energy efficiency: Install solar panels on your boat to decrease reliance on fossil fuels and reduce your carbon footprint.
• Reduce waste: Minimize the amount of waste produced while boating by recycling and composting materials, such as food scraps and paper towels. Choose reusable products instead of disposable ones, such as plastic bags and straws.
• Anchor responsibly: When anchoring your boat, be mindful of your surroundings. Avoid anchoring near rocks, coral, or other hard surfaces. Do not anchor in beds of seagrass or seaweed, as these are important habitats for marine life.
• Use environmentally friendly cleaning products: Opt for biodegradable or "ocean-safe" cleaning products to protect marine life. Avoid using sponges that contain plastic to reduce plastic pollution.
• Manage sewage and waste properly: Do not dump sewage into the ocean. Utilize pump-out stations at marinas or portable toilets that can be emptied into approved shoreside waste handling facilities.
• Reduce noise pollution: Be mindful of the noise your boat produces, as it can disrupt marine life that relies on the silence of the ocean for communication and navigation. Choose electric motors over gas-powered ones, as they are quieter and produce less vibration.

Respect habitats

Respecting ocean habitats is crucial to reducing chemical pollution in the ocean. Here are some ways to do this:

Avoid Single-Use Plastics

Single-use plastics are a significant contributor to ocean pollution. These plastics often end up in the ocean, breaking down into microplastics and nanoplastics that contaminate seawater and harm marine life. By refusing single-use plastics, we can reduce the amount of plastic waste that enters the ocean, thereby protecting marine habitats and ecosystems. This includes saying no to plastic bags, straws, disposable water bottles, and excessive packaging. Opt for reusable alternatives instead.

Reduce Your Carbon Footprint

Climate change exacerbates the impacts of chemical pollution on the ocean. By reducing your carbon footprint, you can help mitigate climate change and give marine life a better chance to recover. This includes using fuel-efficient vehicles, carpooling, and riding a bike, adopting energy-efficient appliances, and reducing energy consumption at home.

Practice Responsible Fishing

Fishing practices can have a significant impact on marine habitats. Overfishing and destructive fishing methods damage ecosystems and deplete fish populations. By following "catch and release" practices and responsible fishing guidelines, we can help preserve marine habitats and support the survival of various fish species.

Safe Boating

When boating or sailing, it is essential to anchor in sandy areas away from coral reefs and sea grasses. Adhering to "no wake" zones and speed limits can also help protect sensitive marine habitats from propeller damage and erosion. Respecting these habitats ensures that marine life can thrive and reproduce, contributing to the overall health of the ocean ecosystem.

Volunteer for Cleanups

Getting involved in beach cleanups and community initiatives is a direct way to show respect for ocean habitats. By volunteering your time to remove litter, debris, and plastic waste from beaches and coastal areas, you can prevent these pollutants from entering the ocean and harming marine life. This also includes participating in watershed protection programs to ensure that waterways flowing into the ocean remain clean and healthy.

Frequently asked questions