According to Greenpeace, annual plastic pollution has skyrocketed since the early 1950, reaching 322 million tonnes in 2015. Not including synthetic fibres used in clothing, rope and other products. Plastic pollution will contine to increase, likely doubling by 2025.
This is a big threat to our oceans.
1. Reduce Your Use of Single-Use Plastics
The easiest and most direct way that you can get started is by reducing your own use of single-use plastics. Single-use plastics include plastic bags, water bottles, straws, cups and any other plastic items that are used once and then discarded.
2. Support Bans
Support the adoption of policies that ban single use plastic bags, takeout containers and bottles.
3. Spread the Word
Stay informed on issues related to plastic pollution and help make your friends and family aware of the problem.
4. Collect Plastic Rubbish
When you visit the beach make it a habit to take away a few peaces of plastic and other rubbish instead of rocks and shells.
5. Feed yourself, not the animals
If you do decide to bring food to the beach, make sure it’s for you, and only you! Don’t disrupt the diets of the animals, such as birds or fishes, that are sharing the shore and sea with you.
6. Support Organizations Addressing Plastic Pollution
"Keep New Zealand Beautiful"
mobilises over 100,000 volunteers every year - cleaning up beaches, picking up litter, removing graffiti, planting trees and much more.
7. Join a clean-up!
If you live near the beach, tag along to a local clean-up. Team up with an organization or plan it yourself!