Why ocean pollution is a risk to your health

Think that ocean pollution doesn't affect you? Think again.

This extraordinary infographic from DiveIn shows the ways that putting rubbish into our oceans isn't just creating problems for marine life, but also humans.

Our oceans are teeming with plastic waste left behind by humans, and it kills millions of aquatic animals annually. Not only this, it also spreads harmful algae and invasive species and man-made pollutants are introduced into the food chain. This means that a coffee cup dumped in the ocean can end up back on your plate in the form of microplastic or chemical toxins.

WHAT YOU CAN DO

Mind your carbon footprint and reduce energy consumption

Reduce the effects of climate change on the ocean by leaving the car at home when you can and being conscious of your energy use at home and work.

A few things you can do to get started today: Switch to compact fluorescent light bulbs, take the stairs, and rug up in winter to avoid oversetting your thermostat.

Make safe, sustainable seafood choices (or choose to not eat fish at all)

Global fish populations are rapidly being depleted due to demand, loss of habitat, and unsustainable fishing practices. When shopping or dining out, help reduce the demand for overexploited species by choosing seafood that is both healthful and sustainable.

Reduce what you buy, watch over-packaging and stop ANY of these items ending up in our oceans

Coffee cups, cigarette buts, plastic bottles, plastic bags, wet wipes and more are all ending up in our oceans and polluting our beaches. Not to mention causing harm to sea life, and even human health. Small actions like ditching takeaway coffee cups and getting an awesome reusable Keep Cup, or using a reusable water bottle instead of buying plastic ones can hugely help reduce waste in our oceans.

READ THIS NEXT: From the Land to the Sea – How what we throw away ends up in the ocean

Banner image: Shutterstock

READ THIS NEXT: Does your rubbish really need to be put in a plastic bag?

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