So in keeping with the sustainability theme, let’s look as how we can lessen our impact on the environment as coastal dwellers through simple everyday lifestyle choices.
Do you know that millions of tons of waste generated on earth end up in the ocean every year, plastic being a major culprit and threat for marine life? Apart from recycling existing waste, creating less of the dreaded stuff should be at the top of our eco-championing lifestyle list. Baby steps we can all take to lessen waste is to ditch the plastic bottles, bags, disposable cups and packaging and instead use your own reusable containers for water and coffee, take-aways and groceries.
Sustainable seafood should be on everyone’s mind, with mass over-fishing dwindling populations of many commercial species. Make sure you source your seafood from eco-responsible fishmongers or supermarkets. The same goes for your choice of restaurant – make sure that you are informed about which species are endangered or sustainably sourced in your local waters. On the topic of food, give growing your our veg, herbs and fruit a go. Not only is it good for the environment, you’ll also have a steady supply of fresh, seasonal produce at your doorstep. Also consider composting your organic waste which will help to nourish nutrient-poor sandy soil and give you gorgeous plants.
Another way for seaside residents to make a tangible contribution to conservation is to help clean up the local beach. An inevitable consequence of dumping so much garbage into the ocean is that is washes up on our shores, posing a health risk for all beach dwellers. Get involved with existing clean-up actions in your community, or if there are none, rally volunteers to start your own initiative.
World Oceans Day was just celebrated on June 8th with the theme “Healthy oceans, healthy planet”. It’s not difficult to realise that cutting back on consumption makes sense for both (wo)man and nature – make it a habit to tread lightly and waste less, and hopefully we can sustain our seas for generations to come.