Mission Blue: Save the Ocean
“The next five years may be the most important in the next ten thousand for our planet. There are plenty of reasons for hope, yet every day, doors of opportunity close. We know what to do. Now is the time to act.” ~Dr. Sylvia Earle
My family and I watched the 2014 documentary, Mission Blue, on Netflix last week.
Wow.
I'm so inspired by the work of Dr. Sylvia Earle. I want you to know who she is and support her vision of saving the blue heart of our planet—the ocean!
Hope Spots
Our greenhouse gas emissions are causing climate change and ocean acidification. By driving less and carpooling, flying less, using less electricity, choosing renewable energy (solar power, hybrid vehicles, etc) whenever possible and voting for policymakers who believe in solving climate change, we can all make a big difference for the ocean and all of life on Earth.
While about 12% of the land on Earth is protected (for example: national parks), less than 6% of the ocean is protected.
Hope Spots are special places that are scientifically identified as critical to the health of the ocean. They are championed by local conservationists whom Mission Blue supports with communications, expeditions, and scientific advisory.
Boycott Seafood: Say No to Overfishing
Overfishing is another major issue impacting the ocean. Some of the saddest, most difficult-to-watch scenes in the documentary depicted men cutting the fins off live sharks and throwing them back into the ocean.
Many types of fish are treated brutally by industrial fishing practices. By choosing not to eat seafood, we can show fisheries that there’s less demand for their fish supply.
Minimize Plastic Use
Plastic pollution is clogging our waterways and poisoning marine creatures.
Simply carrying a reusable water bottle and avoiding using plastic drinking straws, utensils, etc., helps to reduce the amount of plastic litter that often ends up in the ocean.
“Everyone has power to make a difference as an individual or by joining the company of others who share a common goal. The key is in knowing that what you do matters, including doing nothing!” – Dr. Sylvia Earle
To learn more, visit the Mission Blue website.
