June 8, 2022
What is World Ocean Day?
World Ocean Day reminds everyone of the major role the oceans have in everyday life. They are the lungs of our planet, a major source of food and medicine, and a critical part of the biosphere. The purpose of World Oceans Day is to inform the world of the impact of human actions on the ocean, develop a worldwide movement of citizens for the ocean, and mobilize and unite the world’s population on a project for the sustainable management of the world’s oceans.
World Oceans Day happens every year on the 8th of June. More than 140 countries take part and pledge to consider the importance of the ocean. And how we can protect it.
Scientists are working hard to reverse the effects of pollution and climate change. Though we don’t all have the knowledge or resources to develop technology, we can all help in small ways. Recycling and using sustainable energy resources have a significant impact on our environment!
Why is it important that we take care of our oceans?
70% of Earth’s surface is water. Thousands of species of plants and animals live in the sea. It’s essential that we look after the sea, or these plants and animals will die.
In 2015, scientists estimate that between 4.8 and 12.7 tonnes of plastic entered the oceans. A considerable amount of it comes from the fishing industry’s ruthless practices. This plastic has a significant impact on sea life. Plus, plastic lasts for hundreds of years because it doesn’t biodegrade.
We must find alternative methods of getting rid of plastic waste. As well as reduce our own fish consumption. In some countries, scientists have managed to find ways of using waste plastic to build new roads.
Removing plastic from the world’s oceans is a big operation, and it’ll take a long time. Anything we can do to prevent further damage is vital.
book a place for plastic
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This thought-provoking picture book follows the journey of a single-use plastic bag. Starting from the supermarket until it reaches the ocean. Along the way, you’ll see the bag pass through a kitchen bin, the back of a truck and a river. In the ocean, it finds itself among jellyfish, birds and even a whale. That’s before it settles on an island of floating plastic waste.
Plastic does not belong in the ocean, so the story shifts as the bag make its way back to land. The book ends with a child picking up litter on the beach. Thus,’ presenting the reader with a ‘choice’ to make about the bag’s future.
Poignant, moving and beautifully crafted. With incisive prose and stunning illustrations. ‘A Place for Plastic’ is ideal for teaching about plastic and ocean pollution. The story can inspire discussions about recycling or how we can live more sustainably. About our responsibility to protect the environment. Or how pollution impacts animals and their habitats.
https://www.nationalgeographic.com/environment/article/plastic-pollution
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