The increasing realization that massive non-biodegradable wastes have found their way deep in the oceans has raised concerns.
Devastating images of aquatic animals trapped in plastics bags and bottles have emerged. Some are tied up and in the verge of losing their body parts. A recent incident of a dead mature whale whose stomach was full of plastics clearly shows the extent of ocean pollution. We are choking the sea.
While plastics are not the only agents of ocean pollution, they are among the majority and is as a result of intentional and unintentional dumping. Boat rides contribute immensely on the number of plastic bottles and cans in our oceans due to carelessly throwing them in the water.
To help reduce such careless throwing of plastics in water bodies and other sites of great importance, the president of Kenya joined other countries and institutions such as the European Parliament and Mexico by announcing a ban on single-use plastic products in parks and beaches. I think this step came at a time when everyone needs to take charge of the wastes they generate.
The World Oceans Day 2019 was celebrated on Saturday 8th June with one core aim- to stop ocean pollutions. Pollutants in the oceans end up in our bodies through food, water, and air; thus, it is time to say NO to #PlasticDiet by taking charge of our wastes.
We have reached a point where we are scared of the outcome of a dead sea. Can you imagine how it will feel, smell, and look like when you live or work close to a dead sea? By this, I mean, where there is no life in the sea; when all aquatic plants and animals are dead and rotting.
We love snorkeling. What if the only thing you see when you snorkel are coral reefs covered with plastics and cans? If you are a deep sea-diver, what would be the worst thing that can happen to you in the event of a polluted ocean?
Several questions portray how not only the aquatic life is in danger but also human life and pleasure.
Clean-up the beaches and ocean initiatives have begun. However, will we be able to remove all the build-up solid wastes underneath? How much money and resources do we need to do such a clean-up? How risky is it? Will we be doing more harm in the event the gadgets and machinery used spills oil and other harmful chemicals?
Sustainable Development Goal No. 12 ‘Responsible Production and Consumption,’ No. 14 ‘Life Below Water’ are directly linked to ocean pollution.
If we want to attain the above, then we have to personalize environmental protection, watch our actions while at the beaches and utilizing the oceans for whatever activity
