World Oceans Day, celebrated annually on June 8th, is a global reminder of the vital role our oceans play in sustaining life on Earth. While 2020 presented unique challenges with social distancing and lockdowns, it didn’t diminish the urgency of ocean conservation. Here are five impactful ways you could have taken action, and how those actions remain relevant today:
1. Educate Yourself (and Others) Virtually:
- Then: With physical gatherings limited, online resources became paramount. Dive into documentaries, webinars, and virtual museum tours focused on marine life and ocean health. Organizations like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) offered a wealth of digital content.
- Now: The digital resources created in 2020 remain valuable. Share educational articles, videos, and infographics on social media. Start a virtual book club focused on ocean conservation. Knowledge is power, and spreading awareness is crucial for fostering lasting change.
2. Reduce Your Plastic Footprint at Home:
- Then: With increased reliance on takeout and online shopping, plastic waste surged. World Oceans Day 2020 was a timely reminder to reassess our consumption habits. Simple swaps like using reusable water bottles, shopping bags, and food containers made a difference.
- Now: Continue these habits and expand upon them. Opt for products with minimal packaging, choose sustainable alternatives, and properly recycle what you can. Even small changes in your daily routine contribute to a significant reduction in plastic pollution.
3. Support Ocean-Friendly Organizations Online:
- Then: Many organizations shifted their fundraising efforts online, hosting virtual events and campaigns. World Oceans Day was an opportunity to donate to groups dedicated to ocean research, conservation, and cleanup efforts.
- Now: Research and support organizations that align with your values. Consider recurring donations or volunteering your time virtually. Share their campaigns and initiatives with your network to amplify their impact. Many organizations still rely heavily on online donations.
4. Participate in Virtual Cleanups and Citizen Science Projects:
- Then: While physical beach cleanups were limited, virtual initiatives emerged. Apps like Litterati allowed individuals to document and track litter in their neighborhoods, contributing to a global database. Citizen science projects also provided opportunities to contribute to research from home.
- Now: Continue participating in citizen science projects. Apps like those that identify marine life, or track trash, are still active. Consider participating in local cleanups when and where it is safe to do so. Even cleaning up your local park helps to keep trash from eventually reaching the ocean.
5. Advocate for Change from Your Couch:
- Then: Social media became a powerful tool for raising awareness and advocating for policy changes. World Oceans Day 2020 saw a surge in online petitions, campaigns, and discussions focused on pressing issues like overfishing, climate change, and plastic pollution.
- Now: Continue to use your voice to advocate for change. Contact your elected officials, sign petitions, and support campaigns that promote sustainable ocean policies. Share information about important issues and encourage others to take action. Social media can be used to hold corporations and governments accountable.
While World Oceans Day 2020 presented unique circumstances, the core message remains the same: we all have a role to play in protecting our oceans. By taking action, whether big or small, we can contribute to a healthier and more sustainable future for our planet.
