With skyrocketing plastic production, poor waste management and low levels of recycling 4 to 12 million metric tons of plastic end up in the ocean each year. This is enough to cover every shore on the planet! Plastic pollution is one of the greatest threats to ocean health worldwide.
One of the main reasons that plastic pollution is such an environmental issue is that it does not go away. Instead of biodegrading like organic material, plastic is broken down into micro-plastics which stick around, rapidly accumulate and cause unquantifiable damage.
So, what can we do about it? We can all do something to reduce the amount of ocean pollution caused by plastic. Here are some ways you can make a difference, starting today!
- Reduce Your Use Of Single-Use Plastics
No matter where you are, the easiest way to get started is by reducing the use of single-use plastics. This includes:
- Take-out containers
- Snack packaging
- Barrier bags
- Dry cleaning bags
- Black refuse bags
- Plastic utensils
- Cups
- Straws
- Water bottles
- Plastic bags
- Recycle, Recycle, Recycle!
Try your best to use plastic that can be locally recycled, every country and even city differs infra-structurally. Currently, as little as 9% of plastic is recycled around the world, only 16% in South Africa. If you recycle, you are helping to keep plastic out of the ocean by promoting a circular economy while reducing the demand for virgin plastic.
- Participate In Beach Cleanups
Help reduce ocean pollution by collecting it from the beach. Join us on our beach clean up events and help us make a difference! This is one of the most rewarding and direct ways to help reduce the amount of plastic polluting the ocean. Apart from changing our daily habits, there’s a lot of waste already out there that we need to do our best to reduce.
- Raise Ocean Pollution Awareness
Spread the word. By staying informed on plastic pollution, you can help raise awareness. Tell your family, friends and community about how they can be part of the solution as well. Use the power of social media, start discussions and share your experiences with embracing alternatives.
- Support Organisations Addressing Plastic Pollution
By supporting non-profit organisations like #SeaTheBiggerPicture, you become part of defending South African waters and beaches against marine litter through plastic pollution education, beach clean-ups and awareness campaigns.
We believe that through daily actions, we can all make a difference, no matter how small. Get in touch with us today if you’d like to join our marine pollution awareness community and help defend the ocean against plastic pollution.