There are few natural wonders more beautiful or diverse than the ocean. But the fast rise in human pollution is harming the ocean ecosystem and the myriad of life it contains, which ultimately hurts people as well, particularly those who rely on the sea like in Hawaii. To help reduce ocean pollution, the marine education experts of Dolphin Excursions Hawaii in Waianae share some changes you can make in daily life.

5 Ways Marine Education Experts Say You Can Help Prevent Ocean Pollution

1. Lower Your Energy Consumption

No matter how far away you live from the ocean, your lifestyle can still affect it. Most of the energy that your home uses comes from burning fossil fuels, the production of which pours massive amounts of pollution into both the atmosphere and the ocean. Reducing the amount of energy your home consumes will help keep the ocean cleaner, the animals healthier, and the environment sustainable for future generations. Even something as small as switching to energy-efficient light bulbs can make a difference.

2. Recycle

Marine education experts have been warning people that one of the biggest current dangers to ocean wildlife is plastic refuse. Plastic bags, food wrappers, and drinking straws pile up in the waters, where fish and other sea creatures mistake them for food and ingest these inedible substances. Recycling plastic materials will cut down the amount that goes into the ocean.

3. Cut Out Disposable Items

Another way to prevent plastics from clogging up the sea is to use alternative products in everyday life. In Hawaii, stores now charge for plastic and paper bags to encourage people to lessen their usage. Bringing reusable bags for shopping trips will cut the unnecessary waste  and save you money. And instead of buying plastic water bottles, invest in an insulated metal water bottle.

4. Pick Up Litter

While some ocean pollution comes from ships and oil rigs, the vast majority originates on land. Even if you live miles from the ocean, you never know if a piece of trash you drop today will get washed into the ocean tomorrow. When you go to the beach, take care to clean up after yourself and others. Whether you volunteer for a community cleanup or do your part individually, you’ll set an example for others to follow.

5. Enjoy the Ocean Responsibly

If you want to enjoy the ocean by boat, do some research beforehand on eco-friendly options. Some boating and cruise companies are more concerned about responsible ocean travel than others and will conserve water, reduce fuel usage, and recycle. While out on the water, hold onto garbage until you can dispose of it on land or throw it away in available receptacles.

Taking steps toward ocean conservation also helps the creatures who reside there. When you’re ready to see local marine life up close, take a tour with the locally owned Dolphin Excursions Hawaii. For more than 28 years, their lifeguard-certified crew has taken residents and tourists alike to enjoy snorkeling, dolphin discovery, and whale watching along the West Coast of Oahu. For more information about their marine education program and tours, call them today at (808) 239-5579 or visit their website.