POLLUTION IN OUR OCEANS
One of the biggest issues facing our oceans and coasts is pollution. An estimated 4.8 to 12.7 million metric tons of plastic entered the ocean in 2010 from people living within 50 kilometres of the coast in 192 countries. Plastic pollution has a direct effect on coastal and marine wildlife. Thousands of marine animals are killed each year as they mistake floating plastics for food or they become entangled in it.
A majority of the plastic in our oceans is so small that we can’t see it. Big pieces of plastic breaks down into smaller and smaller pieces until they become just the right size for things like plankton and other filter feeders to consume. Filter feeders include animals like cockles, pipi, and barnacles that are commonly found on our coast. Once plastic enters the food chain through the filter feeders, it works its way up the chain as larger animals eat the smaller ones.
We can all make a difference by reducing the amount of waste we produce each day, by recycling and reusing where possible, and by cleaning up our environment.
Clean-up Kits
We are all in the same boat, so if you are interested in starting regular clean-up events in your area, talk to your friends, family, local city council, and other local groups for support and advice.