Tips for a Trash-Free Seaside: Shedding Litter for Cleaner Oceans
In a shocking revelation, it has been estimated that 80% of marine pollution originates from land sources. This pollution, much of which ends up on our shores and in our oceans, poses numerous threats to wildlife, navigation, and potentially human health.
One significant contributor to this issue is stormwater runoff. Polluted stormwater flows directly into storm drains, rivers, lakes, streams, and the ocean, having a direct impact on these water bodies. Instead of soaking into the ground, stormwater picks up trash, chemicals, and pollutants such as gasoline, antifreeze, fertilizers, and pet waste.
To combat this, individuals can take practical actions to prevent pollution, support cleanup efforts, and adopt sustainable behaviours.
**Reduce Personal Pollution and Waste**
Minimising plastic use, disposing of all trash properly, recycling whenever possible, and using environmentally friendly products are simple yet effective ways to keep garbage from reaching waterways. Reducing vehicle emissions by carpooling, using public transport, biking, or walking also helps lower air pollutants that can deposit into coastal waters.
**Participate in Local Conservation Efforts**
Volunteering for beach cleanups, supporting marine conservation organisations, and getting involved in community-based initiatives are great ways to contribute to the protection of coastal and marine habitats.
**Adopt Sustainable Practices at Home and in Communities**
Promoting sustainable farming and gardening, maintaining natural vegetation and trees near streams and coastal areas, and following local regulations aimed at controlling nonpoint source pollution can all help reduce pollution in our waterways.
**Advocate and Educate**
Educating others about the sources and impacts of marine pollution and ways to reduce it, advocating for stronger local policies that protect water quality and fund pollution control programs, and encouraging businesses and institutions to implement pollution-reducing measures are essential steps towards a cleaner ocean.
By focusing on prevention, treatment, and cleanup, individuals can make a significant impact in reducing marine pollution originating from land. Community engagement and persistent personal action are key to sustaining healthy oceans and beaches.
In 2012, there were over 12,000 beach closings and advisories at oceans, bays, Great Lakes, and freshwater beaches in the United States. By taking action, we can help reduce these numbers and ensure a cleaner, healthier future for our marine life and communities.
- Intentional efforts to minimize waste, such as reducing plastic usage, recycling, and choosing environmentally friendly products, help prevent pollutants from reaching waterways.
- Volunteering for beach cleanups, supporting marine conservation organizations, and participating in community-based initiatives are effective ways to protect coastal and marine habitats.
- Promoting sustainable farming, gardening, and preserving natural vegetation near streams, rivers, and coastal areas helps reduce nonpoint source pollution and contributes to cleaner waterways.
- Educating others about the sources and effects of marine pollution and advocating for stronger local policies to protect water quality can foster a cleaner, healthier environment.
- When adopting a more sustainable lifestyle, consider practicing outdoor living, supporting home and garden practices that promote water conservation, and driving less to lower vehicle emissions and protect our marine life from climate-change induced pollution.
