Lead an Ocean-Friendly Life
Help Reduce Ocean Debris
How Big is the Problem?
- We have produced more plastic in the past 10 years than during the entire last century.
- Enough plastic is thrown away each year to circle the earth four times.
- 80 percent of pollution enters the ocean from the land.
- 90 percent of all trash floating on the ocean’s surface is plastic.
- There are 46,000 pieces of plastic per square mile of ocean.
- At least 8 million tons of plastic enter the oceans each year.
- Plastic makes up 85% of ocean debris.





Ocean debris has become a tragic problem for the oceans, marine life, and yes, even humans. The worst offender: plastic. It truly is a plastic world we live in.
Check out this video.
It’s a Plastic World – http://itsaplasticworld.com/
It Gets Worse.
- Plastic in the world’s oceans could increase by a factor of 10 in the next decade.
- More than 260 animal species have become entangled in or consumed fishing line, nets, ropes and other discarded equipment.
- An astounding 86 percent of all marine turtles are affected by marine debris.
- One million seabirds and 100,000 marine mammals are killed annually from plastic in our oceans.
- 44 percent of all seabird species, 22 percent of cetaceans, all sea turtle species and a growing list of fish species have been documented with plastic in or around their bodies.
The good news is there is a solution. You and Me.
Our partner organization Clearwater Marine Aquarium has a campaign called “Winter’s Ocean Warriors” hosted by Disney star and Dolphin Tale actor Cozi Zuehlsdorff. Cozi teaches us simple ways you can help keep our oceans and rivers clean.
Tip 1: The 3 B’s
- Bottles: Start lowering your single-use plastic bottles. Use reusable containers.
- Bags: Replace plastic with cloth bags.
- Balloons: No more balloons. Replace with bubbles and paper streamers.

Tip 2: Go on a litter cleanup!
- Don’t litter anywhere! 80% of Ocean Debris enters the ocean from the land.
- Organize some friends and go on a litter cleanup in your area.
- Share your litter cleanup stories and photos on our Facebook page.
Tip 3: Stop Using Plastic Straws!
- Drink your beverage without a plastic straw.
- Request no straw when ordering at restaurants.
- Use paper and biodegradable straws or reusable metal straws.
Tip 4: Reduce Plastic Use!
- Use less plastic at home and at work!
- Always look for non-plastic options when buying items or dining out.
- Use reusable cloth shopping bags instead of plastic bags.
- Choose cans over plastic bottles.