Kiera Jefferson
Ocean pollution is a pressing issue that poses a significant threat to marine life and ecosystems. Trillions of pieces of plastic currently pollute our oceans, and this number is only increasing. To combat this, organisations and individuals are implementing various strategies to reduce and eliminate ocean pollution. From a governmental perspective, policies and legislation are being enacted to reduce single-use plastics, improve waste management, and hold plastic producers accountable for their waste. Non-profit organisations like The Ocean Cleanup are also developing innovative technologies to extract plastic pollution from oceans and intercept it in rivers. Individuals are encouraged to refuse single-use plastics, opt for reusable alternatives, recycle properly, and support organisations dedicated to ocean conservation. These collective efforts aim to address the urgent issue of ocean pollution and mitigate its detrimental effects on our planet's health.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Reducing plastic production and waste | Refuse single-use plastics, opt for reusable products, recycle properly |
| Using eco-friendly products | Reusable bags, water bottles, containers, cloth bags, stainless steel water bottles |
| Improving wastewater systems | Improving wastewater infrastructure, using eco-friendly products, reducing water usage |
| Beach and river cleanups | Volunteering for cleanups, supporting organisations like The Ocean Cleanup and Surfers Against Sewage |
| Legislation and policy changes | Reducing plastic production, improving waste management, holding plastic producers accountable, implementing the Marine Protection, Research and Sanctuaries Act (MPRSA) |
| Non-profit organisations | Oceanic Society, Plastic Pollution Coalition, 5 Gyres, Algalita, Plastic Soup Foundation, The Ocean Cleanup |
| Education and awareness | Raising awareness about ocean pollution, encouraging individual behaviour changes |
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What You'll Learn
Reduce plastic consumption and increase recycling
Plastic pollution is one of the greatest threats to ocean health. Trillions of pieces of plastic pollute the oceans today, and this number is projected to triple in the next 20 years. The plastic in the ocean has a devastating impact on marine wildlife and ecosystems, and it can take hundreds of years to degrade fully. Marine plastic pollution may be costing the world economy trillions of dollars annually as it affects fisheries, coastlines, tourism, marine life, and the food we eat.
To reduce plastic consumption, individuals can start by buying less plastic and bringing a reusable bag. People can also buy staples like rice and pasta from bulk containers and store them in jars at home. When possible, choose products in non-plastic packaging. For example, instead of buying a squeezable honey bear, opt for a glass jar of honey.
At the international level, organizations and businesses are working together with United Nations member states to enact a global plastics treaty. This treaty will set global rules and regulations to reduce plastic pollution. Additionally, legislation that limits, taxes, or bans unnecessary single-use plastic items, such as plastic bags, takeout containers, and bottles, has been successfully enacted in many places globally. Individuals can support the adoption of such policies in their communities.
To increase recycling, it is important to recycle single-use plastics and other plastics that can be recycled. Currently, only about 9% of plastic is recycled worldwide. Recycling helps keep plastics out of the ocean and reduces the amount of "new" plastic in circulation. Properly disposing of plastics that cannot be recycled is also crucial.
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Properly dispose of toxic chemicals
Preventing ocean pollution is a collective effort that involves governments, organizations, and individuals. One crucial aspect of this effort is the proper disposal of toxic chemicals. Here are some detailed instructions to ensure that toxic chemicals are disposed of correctly:
Identify Toxic Chemicals
Firstly, it is essential to identify the toxic chemicals that require proper disposal. These can include household products such as paints, cleaners, oils, batteries, pesticides, herbicides, and other cleaning products. These products often contain hazardous ingredients that can negatively impact the ocean if not disposed of correctly.
Read Labels and Follow Directions
When dealing with toxic chemicals, always read the product labels for specific disposal directions. Keep the chemicals in their original containers with the labels intact. This information is crucial for reducing the risk of explosions, leaks, or adverse reactions when transporting or disposing of the chemicals.
Separate and Segregate Chemical Waste
Separate different types of toxic chemicals and segregate them by compatibility. Do not mix incompatible products, as they may react dangerously. Store the chemicals in tightly sealed containers, with clear and accurate labels indicating the contents and any relevant hazards.
Contact Local Authorities
Many communities have collection programs for household hazardous waste (HHW). Check with your local environmental, health, or solid waste agency to find out about permanent or periodic HHW collections near you. Some local businesses may also accept specific items, such as used motor oil, for recycling.
Dispose of Chemicals Through Authorized Channels
Hazardous waste often requires specialized disposal methods. Contact your local hazardous materials official, fire department, or authorized waste management programs for guidance on disposal. They can provide information on designated disposal sites, drop-off locations, or pickup services for hazardous materials.
Reduce Purchase and Use of Toxic Chemicals
Whenever possible, opt for non-toxic and environmentally friendly alternatives to toxic chemicals. This reduces the overall risk to the ocean and the environment. Additionally, consider reducing your purchase of products that contain hazardous ingredients.
By following these instructions and staying informed about proper disposal methods, individuals can play a crucial role in preventing ocean pollution caused by toxic chemicals.
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Regulate and manage ocean disposal of dredged materials
The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) are jointly responsible for regulating and managing the ocean disposal of dredged materials. The EPA's Ocean Dumping Management Program plays a crucial role in protecting and preserving ocean and coastal resources.
The EPA Regional Offices and USACE Districts work together to develop and evaluate sampling and analysis plans to ensure that dredged materials intended for ocean disposal are thoroughly characterised and will not harm the marine environment. This process involves the creation of Regional Implementation Manuals, which offer region-specific guidance, such as identifying contaminants in specific harbors and recommending particular species for testing.
The USACE District Offices are responsible for issuing ocean dumping permits for dredged materials, using the EPA's environmental criteria and subject to the EPA's review and concurrence. The EPA's marine protection criteria consider various factors, including the environmental impact on marine ecosystems, shorelines, and beaches, as well as the potential adverse effects on navigation, scientific study, fishing, and resource exploitation activities.
Obtaining an MPRSA permit for dredged material disposal typically takes between six to 18 months. Applicants are encouraged to contact their local USACE District beforehand to understand the process and requirements thoroughly. The USACE relies on the EPA's marine protection criteria when evaluating permit requests, and these permits are generally valid for up to three years.
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Reduce carbon footprint and use fuel-efficient vehicles
One of the most significant contributors to ocean pollution is carbon pollution from transportation. Greenhouse gas emissions from transportation account for about 28% of total US greenhouse gas emissions, making it the largest contributor to US GHG emissions. Therefore, reducing our carbon footprint and using fuel-efficient vehicles are crucial steps in preventing ocean pollution.
When shopping for a new car, opt for fuel-efficient vehicles with low greenhouse gas emissions. These cars are better for the environment and can also save you money on fuel costs. The EPA's Green Vehicle Guide and Fuel Economy and Environment Label are excellent resources to help you choose the most fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly vehicle for your needs. Additionally, reducing idling in vehicles, such as diesel school buses, can lower children's exposure to diesel exhaust, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and save fuel costs. Modern vehicles do not need to be "warmed up" in the winter, so there is no need to turn on the engine until you are ready to drive.
Another way to reduce your carbon footprint is to carpool or ride-share. Sharing a ride to work or when running errands can significantly reduce your carbon emissions. Properly inflating your tires and using cruise control can also help improve fuel efficiency and reduce your carbon footprint.
In addition to fuel-efficient vehicles, advancements in technology have led to the development of electric and battery-powered lawn and garden equipment that is quieter and less polluting than traditional gas-powered engines. When purchasing commercial-grade landscaping machinery, look for products with advanced emissions reduction technologies, such as catalysts and electronic fuel injection, which result in significantly less pollution.
Lastly, simple habits such as reducing water usage, choosing sustainable seafood, buying less plastic, and using reusable bags can also help reduce your carbon footprint and prevent ocean pollution.
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Participate in beach cleanups
Beach cleanups are a fantastic way to get involved in protecting our oceans. They are organised events where volunteers come together to remove litter, debris, and other pollutants from beaches and coastal areas. These cleanups are vital in tackling the ever-growing problem of marine pollution, which has devastating effects on marine life and coastal communities.
By participating in beach cleanups, you can directly help to intercept litter before it enters the ocean, reducing the overall plastic load and protecting marine ecosystems and wildlife. Beach cleanups also provide an opportunity to raise awareness about the impacts of pollution and the importance of responsible waste disposal, especially regarding single-use plastic items.
There are various ways to get involved in beach cleanups. Large-scale global events, such as International Coastal Cleanup Day, bring together millions of volunteers worldwide to clean beaches and raise awareness. This event is held annually on the third Saturday of September and is coordinated by organisations like Ocean Conservancy and Surfrider Foundation. Local communities, environmental groups, non-profit organisations, schools, and businesses also organise smaller-scale cleanups, providing an excellent opportunity to work with your community to protect your local beaches and ecosystems.
You can also take the initiative and create your own beach cleanup with your company, community group, or a group of friends. Organisations like Ocean Blue Project and Surfrider Foundation provide tools and support for volunteers to organise beach cleanups autonomously. Additionally, some beach cleanups collect data on the types and quantities of litter found, contributing valuable information for research and policy-making. By participating and reporting the waste collected, you can help identify pollution sources and inform strategies for waste reduction.
So, whether you join a large-scale event or organise a small community effort, your participation in beach cleanups can make a significant difference in preventing ocean pollution and protecting our marine environments.
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Frequently asked questions
There are many ways to prevent ocean pollution. You can reduce your plastic consumption, use eco-friendly products, and volunteer for beach cleanups. You can also support organisations like The Ocean Cleanup, which is developing technologies to rid the oceans of plastic.
Governments are implementing policies and bans to reduce single-use plastics. They are also working to improve wastewater infrastructure and protect oceans from ocean dumping through acts like the Marine Protection, Research and Sanctuaries Act (MPRSA).
Plastic pollution is one of the greatest threats to ocean health. Plastics can persist for decades, degrading into microplastics that are ingested by marine wildlife and can enter the human food chain. It also affects the ocean ecosystem and tourism.
