How Can You Help Our Ocean From Plastic Pollution?

One of the biggest dangers to the health of the oceans is plastic litter. Almost every area of our lives is influenced by plastic. Unfortunately, plastic pollution is also everywhere because plastic is so pervasive. But you can take part in the fight against plastic pollution.

Reduce Use Of Single-Use Plastics

Since many ocean plastics can take thousands of years to degrade correctly, plastic pollution accounts for a sizable amount of the debris in the ocean. As part of Daniel Keller of Naples Florida’s advocacy, he supports the no-to single-use plastic policy. He believes that reducing single-use plastics can help fight ocean plastic pollution and protect our waterways. With the persistence of ocean-awareness organizations around the world, more cities, businesses, and consumers are changing, such as banning plastic straws and stirrers. Likewise, the EU has decided to ban the use of single-use plastics, and over 250 companies have committed to reducing their use. 

To reduce your usage of single-use plastics, start by decreasing the things you use daily. These include shopping bags, bottled water, take-out containers, and dry cleaning bags. If you’re in the habit of using plastic products, replace them with reusable ones whenever possible. Also, bring your reusable containers everywhere you go. These small changes will make a big difference!

Reuse And Refill Systems

Reuse and refill systems are two new solutions being proposed by environmental groups to fight the problem of ocean plastic pollution. Refill systems allow consumers to step away from the fossil fuel economy and reduce their plastic consumption. By reducing their plastic use and increasing their recycling rates, refill systems will help the environment. Also, a refill system will save consumers money as they will not have to purchase new plastic bottles.

Recycling lessens the quantity of “new” plastic that enters the market and keeps plastic out of the ocean. It has been around for a while, but companies are now taking it to the next level. Many companies are integrating these systems into their offerings and are putting their weight behind them. They also use online platforms and tracking apps to provide valuable consumer insights.

Adopt Green Chemistry Practices

Plastic pollution is a global problem. Mismanaged plastics are estimated to be 52 million tons annually in Asia, 17 million tons in Africa, and eight million tons in Latin America. Ultimately, this pollution leads to a one to five percent decrease in the benefit we derive from the oceans and costs the world between USD 250 billion and $450 billion annually. Fortunately, there are solutions.

A new research report examines the shared pathways of ocean contaminants and plastic. It also proposes seven holistic strategies to combat the problem. These include improving waste-water management and coastal zone restoration. Each intervention aims to reduce ocean plastic. The most significant overlap occurs between green chemistry practices, radical resource efficiency, and recovery and recycling. These practices cover the vast majority of the Sustainable Development Goals. 

Support An Environmental Advocacy Group. 

While there are many things you can do on your own to lessen ocean pollution, some types of it—from chemical contaminants to oil spills—are challenging to combat on your own. For local, national, and international awareness-building, think about joining an environmental advocacy group.

Similar Posts:

None Found