Happy World Ocean Day!
The oceans covers over 70% of the Earth, produces at least 50% of the Earth’s oxygen, provides sustenance for over a billion people worldwide, and employs an estimated 40 million people in ocean-based industries.
According to the United Nations: the sad reality is that 90% of big fish populations are depleted, 50% of coral reefs are destroyed, and humans are taking more from the oceans than can be replenished.
Many of us may think ‘it is not me depleting the oceans’; regardless, if the minority or more continue to disrespect the oceans, the majority will suffer. It is everyone’s responsibility to take part in protecting the oceans.
What can you do to contribute to protecting the oceans?
1) Fish/forage for only what you need and adhere to the fish species limits.
2) Fish sustainably: harvest by hand, use a speargun, hook-and-line, rod, floating traps and weirs, or go small-scale trolling.
3) Use a sunscreen that is verified ‘Ocean-safe’ such as My Sunshine, Seasick Sunscreen Co. and Back to the Wild. Using sunscreens without Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Octocrylene, 4-Methyl-Benzylidene Camphor, Triclosan, Methyl Paraben, Ethyl Paraben, Butyl Paraben, Benzyl Paraben and Phenoxyethanol prevents chemical leaching and coral bleaching.
4) Walk on the beaches, rather than drive or race, to respect the ecosystems.
5) Do not litter at the beach or in the oceans. Rubbish degrades the environment, can be eaten by animals or end up in our waterways.
Photo: Aramoana by Sian Mair.