MonicaLet’s be honest, there are so many things that every single one of us can do, big and small, so here is a mix of big and small actions you can all try and take to support our ocean.
Use plastic-free products
We should do everything that is within our hands to push companies to produce plastic-free products. In order for this to happen, we can start by doing our part and making better choices.
Numerous companies are producing plastic-free products. From re-usable water bottles and coffee cups, bamboo toothbrushes, razors, bars of soap and menstrual cups. Visit my Blue Shop to get some of the products I use myself and think they are so worth sharing because of their sustainability!
Reduce your carbon footprint
The amount of greenhouse gases released in the atmosphere keeps increasing. You can do your part by trying to reduce your own carbon footprint with a few small changes.
Try riding a bike or walking a little more; make sure you turn off your lights and try eliminating (or reducing) your meat consumption –particularly red meat.
Livestock farming is known to produce from 20% to 50% of all man-made greenhouse gases! You sure you want to be a part of that just because “it tastes good”?
Explore and learn about the ocean
In 2000, it was estimated by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) that 95% of the world’s ocean still remains unexplored. Although this is a very high percentage, the amount of discoveries we have been able to make until now is already overwhelming.
So, I encourage everyone to keep learning about the ocean and its wonders, because only when a person learns and understands they will start to truly care and take action.
Check out these documentaries and books!
Travel responsibly
Who loves to travel?
From those who enjoy luxury holidays to the more adventurous backpackers. Whatever your holiday may be, try your best to make it as sustainable as possible.
Book your trips with sustainable companies, look for eco-conscious accommodations and choose your animal experiences very carefully. Always respect the environment, wherever you are and try carrying with you some basic sustainable necessities like bamboo cutlery, reusable water bottles and so much more!
“When you are travelling and in another country, think about how you can make a positive impact while you’re there”
Recycle
You know that good-feeling when you throw your plastic in the plastic bin? Well, only 9% of plastic waste, actually get recycled. The remaining 91% ends up floating around and contaminating our natural environments. This shouldn’t stop you from recycling.
If you really have to utilize any plastic products, always reuse and recycle as much as you can. But maybe it is time to try your absolute hardest to avoid plastic as much as possible!
Shop locally
Carbon footprint is largely created through transportation, having to ship foods around the world. By buying products that are grown locally, you are reducing your carbon footprint.
Have a look on HERE to find out what your carbon footprint actually is. Research what food are grown around your area and try say no to any products that require long transportation periods.
Spread the word and inspire your community
Word of mouth, social media, videos, podcasts and manifestations are the way to go today. If you care about the ocean or if you have learnt something that made you change your views and want to take action, the best thing you can do to help is to spread the word.
Talk to the people who are close to you first and with time, maybe try reaching a wider audience online. Just be honest and say what you think, there will be people out there who won’t like it and there will be people who will be inspired by your words.
Leave nothing behind
Respect the planet in the same way as you respect your home.
Would you throw trash on the floor in your house? I don’t think so.
I still see people spending their day at the beach and then leaving their trash behind.
I still see people opening their car windows and throwing trash or cigarette butts out.
Don’t be scared or shy to say something, you are the one doing the right thing.
Make sure to not leave anything behind and join in your local community clean-up events (or maybe start one yourself!).
Support and join an organization that is working to protect the ocean
There are so many organizations out there doing so much work to protect our oceans. Find one that you like, that shares goals you believe in too and get involved. Volunteer for them, speak out for them, keep yourself informed and always spread the word.
Some of my favourites: WDC, Sea Legacy, Sea Shepherd, SEED Madagascar.
If you have to start small, with an action that you think could barely have an impact, do it! It will have an impact.
