How ocean pollution affects humans [Infographic]
Our returning guest blogger Andrew Dilevics from DIVE.in, a scuba diving online magazine, recently created a powerful infographic that shows the effects that ocean pollution has on humans.
“The world is covered up to 72% in Ocean and it is these oceans that are the reason for life on earth. They provide over 70% of the oxygen that we breathe as well as 97% of the world’s water supply. Without them, we would not exist.
However, everyday the oceans come under attack from pollution, which is causing severe damage to the biggest ecosystem on the planet. Did you know that every year, over 8 million tons of plastic is being dumped into the ocean on purpose? Plastic is one of the largest factors of pollution and is threatening to wipe out many marine species. It is frightening to think that 50% of the plastics that we buy only get used once, such as plastic carrier bags and water bottles, which inevitably end up in the ocean once we dispose of them.
If you would like to know more about ocean pollution and how it affects marine life as well as life on earth, take a look at the fascinating infographic below, created by the team at divein.com.
WHAT CAN I DO TO HELP?
What you do on land can change the fate of what goes on off shore – and small changes in habits can have a large impact on improving our oceans.
1. KEEP YOUR SEWER DRAINS CLEAR
Prevent rubbish and chemicals from flowing into the sea. Keeping your property’s drains clear is your responsibility.
2. DISPOSE OF PRODUCTS PROPERLY
Household cleaning products, batteries, paint and pesticides can threaten water quality.
3. REUSE AND RECYCLE
And opt for no packaging when possible. Carry a reusable water bottle, carry a cotton tote bag and recycle when possible.
4. PLANT AN ORGANIC GARDEN
Pesticides from gardens and lawns can wash into the ocean.
5. EAT SUSTAINABLY
Overfishing, loss of habitat and market demand has decreased fish populations. When shopping or dining out, choose seafood that is sustainably sourced.
6. RESPECT THE BEACH
Take your rubbish with you after a day at the beach, and don’t remove rocks and coral.
7. EXPLORE RESPONSIBLY
Next time you’re off on a dive, cruise or kayak – be mindful of the marine life around you. Find some eco-friendly tours and packages that will respect the marine environment.
FROM SUSTENANCE, NATURAL BEAUTY TO ECONOMICS – THE OCEAN PROVIDES PLENTY FOR THE HUMAN RACE. RESPECT THE OCEAN BY KEEPING IT CLEAN FOR GENERATIONS TO COME.
If you liked this you’ll also love another great infographic on 50 Amazing Facts About The Ocean
If nothing else, this gives us some perspective regarding our role on Earth. We are treating our oceans like our own private junkyard dumping thousands and thousands of tonnes waist straight in – and what will the result be? More dead ocean areas, no more marine life or what? What do you think will become of our oceans and what can we do to stop this?
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