The ocean is the most diverse and expansive place on earth. Unfortunately, it is being polluted from people on land and from natural causes such as hurricanes and earthquakes. Marine life is dying because of pollution, and as a result, the whole oceanic ecosystem is being threatened. If we are to preserve our oceans and all its life, drastic measures must be taken to combat pollution.

It used to be assumed that the ocean was so vast and big that humans dumping trash into the sea would have minor effects. This has proven to not be the case. Pollution has accelerated over the past decade because of oil spills, toxic waste, floating plastic and other factors.

Plastic pollution is one of the greatest threats to our ocean’s health. Between 4 and 12 million metric tons of plastic enter the sea each year. That’s enough plastic to cover every foot of coastline on the planet. One reason plastic pollution is so bad is because it doesn’t go away.

What can we do about plastic pollution? The best thing we could do is replace plastic with alternatives that are safer for the environment. Items like plastic straws, plastic cups and plastic bags make their way to the ocean and cause damage. 

Pollution is also caused by oil spills. Oil spills are often caused by accidents involving oil rigs, tankers and barges. Oil spills are a major threat to ocean life. When exposed, marine animals could experience growth, enlarged livers, changes in heart and respiration rates, fin erosion, and reproduction impairment.

“I think we should try to stop polluting the ocean because if we keep it up ocean life is going to go extinct,” remarked junior Chloe Gabriel. 

There is more and more pollution every year. If we want to save our oceans, we need to start treating our environment right.