Kiera Jefferson
Ocean pollution is a significant environmental issue that poses a threat to the health of our planet. With billions of pounds of plastic found in the ocean, it is one of the greatest threats to ocean health. Plastic pollution has a direct and deadly effect on wildlife, with thousands of seabirds, sea turtles, seals, and other marine animals killed each year due to ingestion or entanglement. To address this crisis, various efforts are being made to reduce and eliminate ocean pollution. This includes the work of organizations like The Ocean Cleanup, which aims to remove 90% of floating plastic through advanced technologies. Additionally, hundreds of organizations and businesses have collaborated with United Nations member states to establish a global plastics treaty, addressing the regulations to reduce plastic pollution. Individual actions, such as reducing plastic consumption, proper waste disposal, and participating in beach cleanups, also play a crucial role in combating ocean pollution.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Organizations | The Ocean Cleanup, Oceanic Society, Center for Biological Diversity |
| Goals | Remove 90% of floating ocean plastic by 2040, restore ocean ecosystems, raise awareness, enact legislation |
| Strategies | Advanced technologies, river interception, global treaties, local cleanups, reducing plastic consumption, proper disposal, recycling |
| Causes of Ocean Pollution | Plastic waste, toxic chemicals, nonpoint source pollution (cars, boats, farms, construction), manufacturing waste, mercury |
| Effects of Ocean Pollution | Wildlife deaths and entanglement, ingestion by marine life and humans, environmental damage, negative health outcomes |
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What You'll Learn
Organisations like The Ocean Cleanup are developing technologies to rid the ocean of plastic
The Ocean Cleanup's system consists of a large floating net-like barrier three meters deep that forms a large U-shape. This is slowly towed by two ships, and the natural flow directs plastic to the central retention zone. The retention zone is then emptied onto the ships' decks, and the plastic is separated into different recycling streams, packaged, and sent to recycling facilities onshore. The organisation also uses Interceptor solutions to catch rubbish in rivers before it reaches the sea. These Interceptors use AI-powered cameras to assess factors such as river width, depth, flow speed, and debris type. The rubbish is then extracted using a conveyor belt.
The Ocean Cleanup's efforts are part of a broader movement to address ocean plastic pollution, which is one of the greatest threats to ocean health worldwide. Trillions of pieces of plastic pollute the oceans, and this number is projected to triple in the next 20 years. Plastic pollution impacts marine wildlife, the food chain, and community health.
While The Ocean Cleanup has faced challenges and criticisms, such as the concern that their system could harm the neuston ecosystem, their work represents a significant step towards tackling the global crisis of ocean plastic pollution.
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Legislation limiting single-use plastic items
Plastic pollution is one of the greatest threats to ocean health worldwide. Single-use plastic items are a glaring example of the problems with throwaway culture. Many countries, states, and cities have implemented legislation limiting or banning single-use plastic items to combat this issue. Here are some examples of such legislation:
European Union
The EU has adopted the Single-use Plastics Directive, which aims to reduce the volume and impact of certain plastic products on the environment, particularly the marine environment. The directive targets the 10 single-use plastic items most commonly found on European beaches, including plastic bags, bottles, and fishing gear, which represent 70% of all marine litter in the EU. The EU is tackling these items through a combination of reducing consumption, introducing design and labelling requirements, and implementing waste management and clean-up obligations for producers. The directive also incentivizes the development of recycling by creating a demand for recycled plastic in beverage bottles.
United States
At the federal level, there are currently no regulations restricting single-use plastics in the United States. However, several states and cities have taken the initiative to implement their own regulations. For example, California enacted Senate Bill 270 in 2014, becoming the first state to ban single-use plastic bags at large retail stores. California has since expanded its anti-plastic legislation, with a recent bill proposal aiming to reduce single-use plastic products by 25% and increase recycling levels. Other states, such as New Jersey, have also implemented bans on single-use plastic bags and polystyrene foam food service products. Additionally, Washington, D.C. was the first to enforce a tax on plastic bags in 2010, protecting the aquatic and environmental assets of the district.
Global Efforts
Hundreds of organizations and businesses have worked with United Nations member states to enact a global plastics treaty, signed by 175 member states. This treaty sets global rules and regulations to reduce plastic pollution, including legislation limiting or banning unnecessary single-use plastic items such as plastic bags, takeout containers, and bottles.
These examples demonstrate the growing global recognition of the need to reduce single-use plastic pollution and the various approaches taken to address this issue through legislation.
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Avoid products containing plastic microbeads
Plastic pollution is one of the greatest threats to ocean health worldwide. Tiny plastic particles, known as "microbeads," have become a growing source of ocean plastic pollution. These microbeads are found in many health and beauty products, including face scrubs, soaps, toothpastes, and body washes. After use, these products are washed down the drain, and due to their small size, they often pass through water filtration systems and end up in our oceans and waterways. Here are some ways to avoid products containing plastic microbeads:
- Ingredient Awareness: When purchasing cosmetic and personal care products, carefully read the ingredient labels. Look for terms like "polyethylene" and "polypropylene," which indicate the presence of plastic microbeads. Avoid buying products that contain these ingredients.
- Support Microbead-Free Campaigns: Join the international campaign against microplastics in cosmetics, such as the "Beat the Microbead" initiative. These campaigns raise awareness, advocate for regulations, and provide resources to help consumers make informed choices.
- Check Product Lists: Refer to online resources that provide lists of products containing microbeads. These lists can help you identify and avoid specific brands or items that contribute to microplastic pollution.
- Choose Alternative Exfoliants: Instead of using plastic microbeads for exfoliation, opt for natural and biodegradable alternatives. For example, choose scrubs that use ingredients like oatmeal, sugar, salt, or coffee grounds as exfoliating agents.
- Contact Manufacturers: If you're unsure about a product, reach out to the manufacturer or brand directly. Express your concerns about microplastics and inquire about their ingredients and commitment to phasing out plastic microbeads.
- Advocate for Regulations: Support and promote legislation that bans or restricts the use of plastic microbeads in cosmetic and personal care products. Many states and countries have already implemented such bans, recognizing the environmental impact of microbeads.
By following these steps, you can actively contribute to reducing the presence of plastic microbeads in our oceans and protecting marine life from the harmful effects of plastic pollution.
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Properly dispose of herbicides, pesticides, and cleaning products
To properly dispose of herbicides, pesticides, and cleaning products, it is important to follow specific guidelines to reduce harm to the environment. Here are some detailed instructions for proper disposal:
- Keep the products in their original containers: It is important to store herbicides, pesticides, and cleaning products in their original containers with the labels attached. This helps identify the contents and ensures that warning labels are visible. It also prevents accidental consumption, especially by children.
- Do not pour them down the drain: Avoid pouring these chemicals down the drain or into a nearby storm sewer. These drains often lead to your community's water system, potentially contaminating the water supply.
- Contact local authorities: Reach out to your local hazardous waste disposal services or your state's environmental agency to inquire about proper disposal methods and locations. Some counties have specific days for hazardous waste disposal, while others accept hazardous waste daily.
- Rinse containers properly: If you have leftover pesticides, herbicides, or cleaning products, properly rinse the containers before disposal or recycling. Wear protective clothing, such as chemical-resistant gloves and eye protection, during the rinsing process. Apply the rinse water only where the product was intended to be used, as directed on the product label.
- Follow specific instructions for pesticides: Pesticides often have unique disposal instructions. For example, after emptying a pesticide container, you may need to rinse it and dispose of it as household hazardous waste. Never reuse a pesticide container for any other purpose.
- Practice responsible usage: Only buy the amount of product you need for the current season or a specific task. Mix only what you require for the immediate application. This minimizes the risk of having large quantities of unused chemicals that require disposal.
- Secure transportation: When transporting pesticides, place them in a secure area of your vehicle, away from groceries and animal food. Line the transport area with a plastic bin to contain any potential spills. Drive carefully and directly to the collection site to prevent accidents or spills during transportation.
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Reduce, reuse, recycle
Reducing, reusing, and recycling are essential steps in tackling the pressing issue of ocean pollution, particularly plastic pollution. Here are some ways in which these principles can be applied to help combat this global crisis:
Reduce
- Plastic consumption can be reduced by opting for sustainable alternatives. For example, instead of using plastic bags, choose reusable bags made from fabric or natural materials.
- Avoid products that contain plastic microbeads, often found in face scrubs, toothpastes, and body washes. Check cosmetic ingredient labels for "polyethylene" and "polypropylene" to identify products containing microbeads.
- Cut down on single-use plastics, such as takeout containers and plastic bottles. Support legislation that limits or bans these unnecessary items, and always recycle them when possible.
Reuse
- Instead of buying new plastic items, opt for second-hand or refurbished products. This reduces the demand for new plastic products and keeps existing plastic out of the ocean.
- Reusable water bottles and coffee cups can be used instead of disposable ones. This simple switch can significantly reduce the amount of plastic waste generated.
- Reusable straws made from metal, glass, or bamboo are also a great alternative to single-use plastic straws.
Recycle
- When using single-use plastics, always ensure they are recycled properly. Currently, only about 9% of plastic worldwide is recycled, so increasing this rate is crucial.
- Check with your local recycling center to understand what types of plastic they accept, and separate your waste accordingly.
- Participate in or organize beach cleanups to collect plastic waste from oceans and waterways. This can be done independently or by joining global movements like the Global Ocean Cleanup or the International Coastal Cleanup.
By implementing these reduce, reuse, and recycle practices, we can significantly contribute to the fight against ocean pollution and create a healthier marine environment for future generations.
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Frequently asked questions
Ocean pollution, also called marine pollution, is a mixture of both chemical contamination and trash. It is a significant environmental issue that poses a threat to the health of our planet. Oceans account for 70% of the Earth's surface and play a pivotal role in the health of our ecosystem.
Hundreds of organizations and businesses have worked with United Nations member states to enact a global plastics treaty, signed by 175 member states, to set rules and regulations to reduce plastic pollution. Many places globally have also successfully enacted legislation that limits, taxes, or bans unnecessary single-use plastic items.
There are several ways to reduce your plastic waste and prevent it from ending up in the ocean. You can use less water, choose non-toxic chemicals, dispose of herbicides, pesticides, and cleaning products properly, cut down on what you throw away, choose sustainable seafood, buy less plastic, use reusable bottles and utensils, and bring a reusable bag.
