8 easy lifestyle choices you can make to help save the ocean

Why do we need to save our oceans? 

Our Oceans cover 71% of the planet's surface and are not just home to an important diversity of species: they regulate our climate. Yet this ecosystem is in danger—and we all know it! We see the damage caused by human behaviour on the beaches, in documentaries, pictures, and it is overwhelming.But something can actually be done to prevent this. Small adaptations to the lifestyle of one person can make a difference. Here are some actions you can take to help:

1. CUT YOUR CARBON FOOTPRINT

The oceans absorb the majority of our carbon emissions, this makes it more acidic and causes ocean temperatures to rise. Loss of marine species and rising sea levels are just some of the consequences. By adopting a few habits you can reduce your carbon footprint: ride a bike or use public transportation, turn off the lights when leaving the room, don't overset the thermostat, choose renewable energy options and buy locally produced food. 

2. SAY YES TO PLASTIC ALTERNATIVES

Plastic is not degradable, and when ending up in the ocean it destroys and endangers the habitat of marine life. As the customer-demand for less plastics is increasing, many companies already provide plastic-free alternatives, like we do. You can make a change by removing unnecessary single-use plastics from your daily life and carry a reusable water bottle/coffee cup. When shopping, buy package free on the market and bring your reusable bag. Look for options that are ie compostable (not biodegradable) and 100% plastic free and recycle as much as possible.

3. EAT ONLY SUSTAINABLE SEAFOOD

The change of our ecosystem and the unsustainable fishing practices continuously reduce the global fish population. It seems difficult at first to know what to buy or where to eat. Learn about eco-certifications and search for logos, which ensure sustainable fishing like the MSC marking. When eating out, choose sustainable seafood restaurants and avoid ordering species that are marked endangered or critically endangered by IUCN, check the species here. 

4. CHECK LABELS AND SHOP CONSCIOUSLY

Start to read the labels to avoid buying ocean-harming products like products with shark liver oil, labelled as squalene. Choose microplastic-free cosmetics as well as eco-friendly hygiene and cleaning products. Reject clothes, which are produced in ocean-polluting factories. Many brands focus on sustainable production or even create new clothes from the plastic they recycled from the sea.

5. TAKE CARE OF THE BEACH

Who doesn't like a day at the beach? Whether you are just relaxing or exploring underwater activities, respect the wildlife, do not remove anything and most important: do not leave anything behind. More and more people visit the beaches and trash accumulates over time. Do not contribute to this! Collect your trash or even better: get involved and participate in a beach clean up. Check out organisations in your local area, that arranges beach clean-ups. 

6. INCREASE YOUR OCEAN KNOWLEDGE

We protect what we care for and love. So the more you learn about the ocean, the greater your impact will be. Explore the oceans around you and learn about responsible water activities. You don't live close to an ocean? There are endless information sources online, as well as documentaries, books and museums where you can inform yourself.

7. SUPPORT ORGANISATIONS

Consider joining an organisation which fights to protect the ocean. You can support financially or by volunteering. There are national and international organisations which inform about activities, latest news and progress achieved through the participation of thousands of members. Also, vote for local representatives who support marine conservation projects.

8. TELL OTHERS

Something you can do anywhere at any time? Be an advocate for the ocean! Spread the word about what can be done, tell others why the oceans matter and inform about what is going on with them. We at VANDAYA consider ourselves ocean advocates, join us in protecting the ocean. 

What do you do to help save the oceans? Do you have other ideas? Let us know in the comment section below.