Plastic pollution has reached record levels and is choking our oceans and
killing wildlife. Every year
19-23 million tonnes of plastic waste leaks into aquatic
ecosystems, polluting lakes, rivers and seas.
There are approximately 51 trillion microscopic pieces of plastic,
weighing 269,000 tons. That is about the same as 1,345 adult blue whales!
🐋🐳
Plastic litter that is left on beaches or in the street could end up in
the ocean, so please take your rubbish home with you or put it in a public
litter bin. If the bins are full do not leave it next to the bin as this
can blow into the sea, and attract gulls and foxes who may ingest your
rubbish.
Want to make a difference?
If you live near a waterway you can volunteer at a local beach or river
clean near you. These are regularly organised, and make a positive change.
Every September thousands of people across the UK head to the coast to
take part in the Great British Beach Clean. This year's event is taking
place between
Friday 20th - Sunday 29th September 2024.
There are several charities in the UK who work hard to raise awareness of
plastic pollution and are regularly liaising with Government to put new
initiatives and protection for our oceans in place. Two good UK
marine conservation charities that you will hear mentioned alot and are
doing great work, due to their activity is
Surfers Against Sewage, and the
Marine Conservation Society. Both of which actively
campaign for positive change.
If you want to get more involved you can find out about the various
volunteering opportunities available with the different UK marine
charities below:
