GVI
Posted: February 22, 2023
Recent years have seen an alarming increase in the amount of plastic pollution in our oceans and waterways. The consequences of this plastic pollution, particularly on marine life, have been well-documented, but none more so than when it comes to its effects on sea turtles. In this article, we’ll take a look at the dangers posed by plastic pollution, why it’s becoming such a widespread problem, how it can be addressed, and how we can help protect sea turtles.
From ingesting pieces of discarded plastic in the sea, to entanglement in discarded fishing gear or plastic packaging, sea turtles face a number of dangers due to plastic pollution. The most common type of plastic debris that sea turtles ingest is plastic bags, which can be mistaken for jellyfish. This cause blockages in the turtle’s digestive system, leading to malnutrition and even death. It is estimated that over half of all sea turtles have ingested plastic, and the number is only increasing.
Unfortunately, the effects of plastic pollution on sea turtles are often fatal. Research has revealed that over 270 species of sea creatures – including turtles – die from ingesting or being entangled in plastic debris every year. It has been estimated that over one million sea turtles are killed each year by ingesting plastic and other forms of debris. This accounts for around 10% of the entire population of sea turtles.
It is important that we focus on the root cause of the issue – the over-consumption of single-use plastics. According to figures from the United Nations Environment Programme, up to 12.7 million tonnes of plastic enter our oceans each year – equivalent to one truckload every minute. This level of uncontrolled consumption has seen our oceans becoming increasingly choked with plastic debris – endangering populations of marine life and birds, leaching toxic chemicals into the water, and even entering our food chain.
The longer this crisis goes unchecked, the more damage will be done – not only to our seas but also to the species that inhabit them. It is clear that we cannot wait any longer to tackle this issue – doing so will require concerted global action and a shift in attitudes towards plastic consumption. We must act now if we are to have any chance at protecting sea turtles – and all other vulnerable species – from further destruction.
Fortunately, there are things we can do right now. Governments around the world should also take decisive action to reduce plastic pollution in our oceans by introducing laws and legislation banning production or heavily taxing single-use products. As well as introducing incentives for businesses to switch to more sustainable packaging options.
On a personal level, we can reduce our consumption of single-use plastic goods like bottles and cutlery, and switch to more sustainable products, like bamboo straws and reusable containers.. We can also support businesses that are ethically moving towards more sustainable practices in their packaging – beware of green washing.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also join volunteer programs where you can take part in beach cleans, dives to protect marine life like lemon sharks and coral reefs, sea turtle conservation programs or help host workshops to educate people about this global crisis and what can be done.
It is essential that we look at ways to educate people about this global crisis. Raising awareness about the devastating effects of plastic pollution on marine life can help encourage individuals and businesses alike to scrutinise their own plastic usage. Even small steps like disposing of waste responsibly and reducing our reliance on single-use plastics can have a huge impact over time.
The crisis of plastic pollution is a complex but urgent threat facing sea turtles and our entire marine ecosystem. If we fail to act now, it could spell disaster for these creatures and their habitats, not to mention the entire planet. By making simple but significant changes to our consumption habits and pushing for decisive action from our governments, we can help protect the future of sea turtles – and protect the planet’s fragile marine ecosystem.
Discover the inspiring stories of endangered species that have recovered from the brink of extinction. Learn how you can get involved in conservation efforts.
Petrina Darrah
Posted: May 20, 2023
