Dive. Clean. Sleep. Repeat.
How beach cleanups help in the fight against climate change.
Did you know that each piece of plastic ever produced still exists on this earth today? Sadly, a lot of it ends up in our oceans, killing precious ecosystems and accelerating climate change in the process. The plastic pollution problem is the main motivation behind the passionate leaders of beach cleanup initiative #SeaTheBiggerPicture.
Chris and Natasha Krauss, Shamier Magmoet, and Juneid Petersen are avid divers, freedivers, and all round ocean lovers. Regularly surrounded by environmentalists on their diving adventures, they began to learn more about the impact of plastic in the oceans and rivers — namely that millions of turtles, dolphins, and seabirds die each year from getting entangled or ingesting human-produced trash. According to National Geographic, nearly 700 species of marine animals and organisms have been negatively affected by plastic waste.
The four friends knew that in order to lower the causes and consequences of plastic in our oceans, they had to engage with their community. Together with a devoted team of nature lovers, they now spread awareness about how to avoid ocean pollution and host ocean cleanup events under the name #SeaTheBiggerPicture in Cape Town, South Africa. The organization's efforts are focused on education through collaborative action.
Plastic may have been a convenient material for us in the last few decades, however, the consequences of human addiction to plastic are starting to outweigh the benefits. Putting the earth at risk and threatening the survival of many animal species and our own well-being.
Some alarming ocean plastic facts:
- The equivalent of one garbage truck of litter is being dumped into the sea every minute.
- Over 90% of all seabirds have some form of plastic in their stomachs.
- The amount of plastic in our oceans could increase tenfold in the next decade if we fail to act now.
How does #SeaTheBiggerPicture help?
- The organization unites local NGOs, individuals, businesses, and communities by hosting beach cleanup events and dispose of plastic and litter found, at proper recycling stations. Beach cleanups are an important way to gather fresh data about the state of our oceans and the types of garbage that pollutes them. By identifying the most harmful debris, environmental researchers can find ways to stop this waste from ending up in the seas or on beaches.
- Brainchild of vice chairperson Shamier Magmoet, the ‘Defenders of the Blue’ community program is geared to building relationships with children and youth and educating them about how to mitigate the effects of pollution on the environment. Through a rock pool based snorkeling course, kids learn about the diverse and fascinating marine life inhabiting the local shores.
- They host educational talks at schools, events, and markets to advocate for changes in consumption, production, and disposal of plastic for individuals and corporate businesses in South Africa.
Local organizations such as #SeaTheBiggerPicture are essential to motivate the communities around them to act. Hosting collaborative events leads to a change in perception, which in turn results in lasting cultural change. They seek to change people’s behavior toward a sense of collective responsibility for our planet.
Take action today
To find and join a beach cleanup event, find and follow local organizations in your region on Instagram or Facebook, and stay tuned for announcements. Most initiatives will eagerly promote their events on social media. The Ocean Conservancy also organizes an international beach cleanup day each year, empowering thousands of people all over the world to unite and clean beaches near them.
If you do not live close to a beach but are concerned about the ocean’s plastic pollution problem, consider donating to an organization to help them educate and spread awareness. Organizations such as #SeaTheBiggerPicture are run by volunteers and rely on funding to organize events and produce educational materials and talks.
And last but not least, the most immediate action you can take is to organize your very own beach cleanup! On a sunny day, gather your friends, family, neighbors, and kids and head to the beach with bags in tow. Make sure to properly dispose of your gathered litter by taking it to designated recycling stations. Often municipalities have extensive recycling options at the local garbage disposal. And don’t forget to take a #usefulselfie to inspire those around you!
