It All Adds Up: Trash Accumulation in 2018
By Mishka Kapoor
Even though the ocean makes up seventy percent of the Earth, many people do not quite understand its significance. The ocean not only produces oxygen, a necessity to the atmosphere, but it also absorbs carbon, and controls the climate and weather. Underneath the surface of the water, millions of aquatic species and plants reside in the largest ecosystem on Earth. From an educational standpoint, scientists and marine biologists have made important ocean discoveries that have influenced modern day society.
However, now more than ever, marine ecosystems have been put at risk. Issues such as population density, global warming, and overfishing have caused noticeable differences in the environment. A big problem is that instead of making a change to our daily habits, we continue to cruise through life oblivious to the damage being done. In this article David Berreby notes that although some waters are “now free of the sewage and industrial wastes that poisoned them in the 20th century”, they are still “packed with trash”.
Plastic accumulation is an ocean in itself.
Before it becomes too late, society needs to be aware of the negative repercussions on the marine environment and learn what they can do to help. If everyone would make a small adjustment to the way they live, the results would be long lasting and beneficial.
Energy consumption is one of the big factors harming the ocean. There are many ways to solve this issue. For example, walking or biking from place to place is an efficient way to leave the car at home, therefore saving energy, money, and time, with an added bonus of exercise.
There has been an enormous decrease in the fish population due to habitat destruction and high demand for seafood in restaurants, both caused by humans. Consuming less fish and seafood, in addition to purchasing only sustainable options would contribute to the overall well being of marine life.
The beach is a place where everyone can enjoy themselves and relax while taking in the sun. Unfortunately, beaches have become unsanitary and dirty due to littering, which has spread to the ocean and negatively affected the animals. Fish, birds, and other aquatic species get themselves caught in plastic, soda cans, and wrappers, and struggle for the rest of their lives. This can easily be stopped by picking up trash and throwing it away before going into the water or leaving the beach.
Our ocean is beautiful but it needs to be protected. With perseverance and determination, it can be done. So let’s start now.
