Everyone can do their part to reverse the decline of the Ocean. Every human on earth—even the most indifferent, laziest person among us—can be part of the solution. Fortunately, there are some easy things we can adopt into our routines that, if we all do it, will make a big difference.
Have a look at just a few of the many things you can do to #SaveOurOcean
Prevent and reduce marine pollution and plastic waste
- Don’t touch coral reefs when diving.
- Choose sunscreens without chemicals that harm marine life.
- Reduce the usage of fertilizers. Excessive amounts of nutrients from fertilizers cause poor water quality, lead to decreased oxygen, and have a negative impact on coral reefs.
- When boating, don’t damage or drop anchors near coral reefs area.
- Be conscious of your energy consumption and reduce your carbon footprint.
- Eliminate unnecessary and difficult to recycle packaging.
- Bring your own take-out containers, reusable water bottle and coffee cups.
- Reduce the use of plastic products and cut down on waste.
- Practice proper garbage recycling.
- Say no to plastic bags and use reusable shopping bags.
- When you enjoy the view and experience on the beach, always leave nothing behind. Collect and dispose of your trash.
Support Blue Economy
- Learn about where our fish comes from and how it is caught to make a better choice on consumption.
- When you order seafood at a restaurant, always ask: “Do you serve sustainable seafood?” Let your favourite businesses know that ocean-friendly seafood is on your shopping list.
- Try consuming a broader range of fish species and only from sustainable and legally caught stock.
- Choose sustainable and environmentally friendly tourism.
Combat Climate change
- Turn off the lights, TV, computer, and laptop when you don’t need them.
- Replace regular light bulbs with energy-efficient light bulbs when possible to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
- Conserve water. Take short showers. Bathtubs require gallons more water than a 5-10 minute shower.
- Eat less meat, poultry, and fish. More resources are used to provide meat than vegetables.
- Put on a sweater or jacket instead of adjusting your thermostat in the winter. Adjust the thermostat higher in summer.
- Bike, walk or take public transport. Save the car trips for when you’ve got a big group.
Stay informed and Advocate for change
- Stay informed. Read a book, watch a documentary, and follow your local news on the ocean and SDG14 online or on social media at @GlobalGoalsUN.
- Tell us about your ocean actions by using the hashtag #SaveOurOcean on social networks.
- Volunteer for the local beach or reef cleanups.