Saving our seas starts with you! Each year, at least 8 million tons of plastic leak into the ocean – that’s the equivalent of a dump truck full every minute. Trash from the land that has made its way to the ocean kills millions of seabirds, turtles, whales, and other animals every year. Pollution from the burning of fossil fuels – for transportation, making plastics, heating our homes, and more – is changing the very chemistry of the ocean, threatening the entire food web. And a warming climate makes it difficult for many animals to find food and safe habitats.
But there’s good news – we can all do something to help protect the places and the species that we love! Here are some ways you can easily incorporate sustainability into your everyday life.
Bring your own
Carry your own shopping bags, straws, water bottles and coffee cups with you in your purse, backpack, or car.
When you go out to eat, bring a Ziploc bag or Tupperware container for leftovers.
If going through a drive-through, bring your own utensils and a cloth napkin.
Buy in bulk
Purchase products like soap, shampoo, cleaning products, etc. in the largest container available.
Buy food from bulk bins using your own reusable containers or mesh bags.
When possible, combine online orders into one big shipment instead of several smaller ones.
Choose Wisely
Whenever possible, buy items that come in glass, cardboard, or metal containers instead of plastic.
At the grocery store, opt for whole fruits and veggies instead of prepared, plastic-wrapped ones.
Purchase what you can from a farmer’s market or local growers. Support local businesses whenever you can.
Recycle and Reuse
Check your local waste management service website to find out exactly what can and cannot be recycled in your area.
Find creative ways to re-use the plastics you can’t avoid.
Join a local “Buy Nothing” group on social media to find and exchange items with others in your community.
Buy as much as you can second-hand – you can usually find thrift stores selling clothes, books, toys, and more somewhere nearby!
Get Involved
Wherever you go, have a trash bag handy so you can pick up litter at the parks and beaches you visit.
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