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.

Tip 5: Reuse!