The ocean needs our protection every day so we take a look at what we can all do beyond World Ocean Day.
South Africa (09 June 2021) – Our oceans are critical to supporting life on our planet, and so while World Oceans Day is an opportunity to raise awareness, every day is a good day to encourage people to get involved in saving this precious resource. Here are five ways in which we can all make a real difference:
Wear a visible symbol of support
A great way to show your support for our ocean conservation and marine life is by supporting organisations that are actively trying to preserve our ocean life. By purchasing Relate bracelets for yourself and for all your friends to wear, you can do just that. Relate works closely with The Endangered Wildlife Trust’s Ocean Project, which is dedicated to the conservation of marine ecosystems that support a myriad of aquatic species, as well as the people that rely on them. Bracelets are on sale for as little as R35 each on the Relate bracelets website as well as the Two Oceans Aquarium in Cape Town.
Take care of the beach
Whether you enjoy diving, surfing, or relaxing on the beach, always clean up after yourself. Explore and appreciate the ocean without interfering with wildlife or removing rocks, shells and coral. Go even further by encouraging others to respect the marine environment or by participating in local beach clean-ups. Keep lights off at night on turtle nesting beaches, and support sustainable development initiatives and organisations.
Reduce your carbon footprint
Reduce the effects of climate change on the ocean by being more energy conscious both at home and work. For instance, try to carpool or take public transport if you aren’t able to walk or cycle to work; take the stairs instead of the elevator as far as possible; switch to compact fluorescent light bulbs, and power off devices that aren’t in use. Another sustainable way to reduce your carbon footprint is by supporting clean alternative energy solutions and innovations where possible.
Educate yourself – and others
Many aquariums do great work conserving sea life, and educating people on the wonders of the oceans. Visit your local aquarium to learn more about the importance of the oceans, and how you can protect them.
Eat sustainably:
Marine resources have been heavily impacted by overfishing and you can play your part by eating sustainably. You can do this by buying your fish and seafood from sustainable suppliers, and only choosing green species from the SASSI list, which promotes informed and ethical consumption of marine species.