SAVE OUR SEAS If we all join in and help, we can make a BIG difference
Did you know that every year 8 million tonnes of plastic end up in our planet’s deep blue seas and oceans? That’s seriously bad news for the beautiful creatures and plant life that live beneath the waves.
Hundreds of species of marine animals die from eating plastic or becoming entangled in plastic netting. Scientists estimate that the amount of plastic in the ocean could triple by 2020!
Here’s the good news. By understanding the situation and taking part, you can help to change the future and make our oceans a cleaner, safe place for our wonderful wildlife!
Plastic is a very useful man-made material. We use it to make all sorts of things such as medical equipment, toys, food containers. The possibilities are endless. The problem is that we use more plastic that we need to, and half of the plastic we use is designed to be used once then thrown in the bin. This ‘single use’ plastic is used to make all kinds of stuff. We all do our best to recycle single use plastics, but really it’s best to try to not use them at all.
TRY TO SAY NO TO THE BIG 4 Bags Straws
Cups Bottles
How does plastic waste end up in the sea?
It can be blown into rivers, streams and sewers from overflowing rubbish bins and landfill sites, or from litter in streets and parks where it can drop down drains and make its way to the sea. Some types of fabric contain tiny plastic fibres called micro-fibres. They can also enter into our water ways from washing machines when we do our laundry.
Why is plastic waste so dangerous?
Animals & birds mistake small pieces of plastic for food. The plastic fills their tummies leaving no room for real food. Animals and birds can get trapped, tangled and even strangled by all kinds of plastic waste, such as discarded fishing nets and six-pack rings from drinks cans.
Plastic doesn’t break down completely it just gets smaller and ends up being swallowed by fish and other ,marine animals The tiny particles of plastic are made from poisonous industrial chemicals. Fish eat the particles and the poison is absorbed into their cells. The fish may eventually be eaten by humans.