6 Simple Ways to Help Improve Ocean Health
One of the most incredible features of Planet Earth, in my opinion, is our beautiful oceans. As a scuba diver, there’s nothing greater than donning my scuba gear, jumping in and getting to explore this majestic underwater world that we’ve been so blessed with!
As of this year, oceans cover 71% of the Earth's surface (hence the ‘Blue Planet’ nickname). They produce over half of the world's oxygen and absorb 50 times more carbon dioxide than our atmosphere does! Oceans provide homes to various marine species and ecosystems, and you know what else? They also regulate our climate and weather patterns too!
If it wasn’t for the oceans, humanity would be in serious trouble and although Planet Earth and the oceans can surely survive without us, there’s no way we could possibly survive without them! It’s integral that we make a conscious effort to keep our oceans clean, not only for our own survival but for all the creatures of Planet Earth.
So here are 6 simple ways we can start to help Mother Nature out and improve the health of our amazing oceans!
Ocean Friendly Products
One easy way to help is to say ‘no’ to plastic! Why not try and replace plastic straws, toothbrushes and cutlery for more sustainable materials, such as stainless steel or bamboo? By now, you’ve probably seen some of the different reusable water bottles available so why not grab yourself a pretty one? Whilst you’re at it, say no to the disposable plastic bag and pick yourself up a reusable eco-friendly shopping bag too! Personally, I like to keep reef-safe sun protection on hand for diving days and use shampoo & conditioner bars to cut down on plastic. Oh and ladies? Try replacing those ‘time of the month’ items with silicone menstrual cups and reusable sanitary pads. Not only will you be saving a hell of a lot of money in the long run, but you’ll also be saving the ocean from all that plastic!
Participate in Beach Clean Ups
Beach Cleans are really positive and social activities where you’re able to meet like-minded people from all walks of life. If you have children, I’d definitely recommend attending a Beach Clean Up as they are probably one of the most family-friendly eco-activities going!
I’ve managed to participate in quite a few and I’ve noticed that not only are they fun and good for the environment but the whole day makes for a genuinely brilliant day out for the kids! A lot of dive centres hold these events, so sign yourself up and do your good deed for the day by stripping the beaches clear of harmful plastics, cigarette butts and all sorts of rubbish. Not only will you come away from the beach with a sense of accomplishment but perhaps with a few new friendships too!
Avoid Touching Coral
As responsible divers, it’s really important that we are aware of our surroundings and avoid brushing up against corals whenever possible. Touching coral, even by accident, could cause them to break or leave them susceptible to disease, which is hugely detrimental to the ocean. After all, corals are not just colourful pretty underwater rainforests for us to take pictures of! In fact, they are the source of nitrogen and play a vital role within our environment, providing us with essential nutrients, assisting in carbon fixing, helping with nutrient recycling and providing homes for various marine life. In recent years, corals have taken a huge hit and are rapidly declining, so let’s help to encourage their growth by being much more aware and avoiding touching them.
Don’t Feed The Fish
Have you ever noticed the ‘don’t feed the fish’ signs on a dive boat? Well, it’s true. Not only do we need to avoid touching marine life but we need to avoid feeding them too. Feeding any marine animal, including coral, can lead to a string of various problems such as altering their natural behaviour and causing them to rely on human food, which then affects the local ecology and creates an imbalance. Unnatural foods in the ocean can produce harmful bacteria which in turn, causes high levels of damage to form, especially in coral reefs. Believe me, it would be far easier to simply avoid feeding any kind of marine life, full stop.
Eat Sustainably
Ok, not everyone wants to be a vegetarian and I completely understand that. Seafood, in particular, is a very popular choice for many people, however, eating seafood does come with some responsibility. Most decent fishmongers source their fish from sustainable fisheries and will be able to help you with your choices, so why not support your local fisherman? Local fisheries are usually far cheaper than supermarket chains anyway and will have a much smaller carbon footprint too!
Reduce Carbon Footprint
Lastly, judging by the state that our planet is in today, it’s a good idea to start reducing our carbon footprint. Many factors come under this such as travelling appropriately, reducing the consumption of fast fashion, eating less processed foods etc. I’m sure you’ve read or heard by now about the ever going crisis of our carbon footprint and how important it is to reduce it, but just in case you haven’t, I’ll break it down super quickly for you… Basically, humankind has been building a huge blanket of carbon dioxide for way over a hundred years (powering our homes, offices, buildings, cars etc) which acts like a giant greenhouse, trapping the sun's heat inside. Over time, the heat continues to get hotter and hotter, meaning a much warmer, more acidic ocean leaving a devastating and lasting impact on marine life. I know, slightly morbid but we’re all guilty of it in some form, so let’s start working on reducing our carbon footprint today!
So there we go, 6 simple ways we can all help improve the health of our oceans!
