No watering down: 6 ways you can help save the oceans

World Oceans Day is celebrated on June 8 every year to create
awareness of oceans in our environment. It highlights the need to protect oceans
from further deterioration. Plastic is one of the major contributors to ocean
pollution.

Here are five things you can do today to help save our
oceans:

Use Re-Usable Bags:

The oceans face a massive and growing threat from plastics. Over
a hundred thousand aquatic life are killed by plastic bags every year. Most of
this plastic waste comes from improper trash disposal, as plastic finds its way
through rivers and streams down to the sea.

The theme for World Oceans Day 2021 is “The Ocean: Life and Livelihoods which
highlights the life and livelihood sustained in the ocean. You can help to
reduce the amount of plastic by recycling, properly disposing of your trash,
and avoiding single-use plastics.

Also read: Kerala coasts to witness rapid sea surge in near future, warn experts

Reduce your carbon footprint:

Carbon dioxide, a known greenhouse gas, is making our oceans
more acidic. Reducing our carbon footprint and switching to sustainable modes
of living can save the plants from dying due to hotter climates.

By making
small changes to your lifestyle, you can make a big difference in the amount of
carbon your family releases into the atmosphere.

Also read: Why is the Arctic sea ice melting faster than expected? New study answers

Make sustainable seafood choices:

Global fish populations are rapidly being depleted due to
demand, loss of habitat, and unsustainable fishing practices.  When you eat seafood, make sure the seafood
you choose is sustainable and healthy for you and the oceans. One of the biggest
threats to ocean health is overfishing.

Also read: From pandemic to climate change: The greatest threats to the world in 2021

Help Take Care of the Beach:

Whether you enjoy diving, surfing, or relaxing on the beach,
always clean up after yourself. You can start a clean-up drive with your community
and clean up the beach.

Encourage people around you to respect the marine
environment or participating in local beach cleanups.

Also read: 1 in 3 heat-related deaths in last 30 years due to global warming: Study

Support organizations working to protect the ocean:

Many institutes and organizations are fighting to protect
ocean habitats and marine wildlife. Find a national organization and consider
giving financial support or volunteering for hands-on work or advocacy.

Also read: All about La Nina phenomenon that has widespread impact on weather globally

Educate yourself about oceans and marine life:

All life on Earth is connected to the ocean and its
inhabitants. The more you learn about the issues facing this vital system, the
more you’ll want to help ensure its health—then share that knowledge to educate
and inspire others.