Importance of Our Oceans and Issues That Affect Them
The importance of the oceans cannot be denied, with many people not realising that between 50 and 80% of all life on Earth is in the oceans with at least 226,408 marine species. Roughly 70% of the world’s oxygen comes from marine plants which shows the vast importance of marine life for our everyday lives.
A huge problem that is currently impacting the oceans is ocean acidification. This occurs when the pH of the sea water decreases (making it more acidic) due to the higher carbon dioxide intake by the sea. This especially has a negative impact on pteropods, shellfish and coral species which means it affects all of their consumers (which happens to be most marine species). For example, it was discovered that pteropods’ shells dissolve after 45 days of being exposed to seawater with lower pH and higher carbonate levels. Many species feed on pteropods ranging from small krill to whales and therefore, they are a vital source for marine animals. For this reason, there is also a corresponding knock-on effect for most other marine species.
Pollution is a grave concern at the moment and it occurs in a number of different ways. These may include agricultural and residential waste due to poor waste management, noise, thermal pollution etc. They can have a negative effect on both marine species as well as humans. Recently, a larger number of cetacean entanglements in fishing gear has been recorded ultimately leading to increased deaths of cetaceans.
To learn more about pollution, visit the ORC Ireland website and click on the conservation tab, or click on the following link:
Pollution is an alarming issue that needs to be addressed and tackled right away due to the harmful consequences it has on all species in the world, including humans. Ways in which we can reduce pollution in the oceans on an everyday basis is by reducing our carbon footprint. This can be achieved in a number of different ways including using reusable bottles and straws, using reusable shopping bags, supporting local businesses, to name but a few. You can play a part in tackling pollution by signing up to our plastic free pledge here:
https://www.orcireland.ie/conservation#PlasticFreePledge2020
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