Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This page may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that I have recommended. There is no additional cost to you whatsoever.
Earth911 talks with George Leonard, chief scientist for the nonprofit Ocean Conservancy, in regards to the state of the oceans and plastic air pollution — notably the impression of COVID-19 private protecting tools (PPE) air pollution. The group just lately accomplished its annual survey of beaches and waterways, throughout which it discovered 107,219 PPE gadgets — masks, shields, and gloves amongst different gadgets. We appear to deal with the ocean as our dumping floor, however the oceans are a supply of meals and far of the world’s oxygen, and in keeping with the United Nations international fisheries might collapse by 2048.
Leonard describes the putting improve in PPE and its potential impression on aquatic life and human well being, as microplastics unfold all through the meals chain. We additionally talk about the current documentary Seaspiracy and the Ocean Conservancy’s work to develop sustainable fisheries world wide. The U.S. stays a frontrunner because of robust regulation of its fishing business however there are challenges world wide. We additionally talk about the fundamental steps every of us can take to reduce ocean plastic pollution — from eliminating single-use plastic in our lives to studying about, supporting, and advocating for legal guidelines to strengthen environmental safety and implement prolonged producer duty laws.
Visit the Ocean Conservancy to be taught extra and assist their work.