April 8, 2014 – 14 Days until Earth Day…
Every year, 14 billion pounds of trash is dumped into the oceans
Despite the fact that Americans generate 10.5 million tons of plastic waste a year, only 1 or 2 % of it is actually recycled. Around 10% of the plastic products made every year will end up in the ocean. Plastic bags and other forms of plastic garbage are thrown into the ocean, killing as many as 1 million sea creatures every year. It is estimated that for every square mile of ocean there are 46,000 pieces of floating plastic. Plastic garbage and especially bags are often mistaken for food by marine creatures with one study finding that Fulmars, ocean going birds that visit our waters, have over 30 pieces of plastic in their stomachs. A sea turtle found dead off of Hawaii had over 1,000 pieces of plastics in its intestines.
But How Does Trash End Up in the Ocean Anyway?
The three most common ways are from storm drains, beach litter and boats. Heavy rain causes any garbage left on the streets to sweep into storm drains where it is deposited into the ocean. Litter that is left on the beach is dragged by waves and a rising current into the sea. Finally, boats are often guilty of dumping their trash straight into the ocean despite laws regulating pollution from ships.
How You Can Make a Difference
- Participate in beach cleanups
- Pick up any trash you see on the street
- Use reusable products whenever possible
- Push elected officials to increase anti-pollution efforts and water quality standards
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