Opinion

Beach clean at lovely Biggar Bank Beach, Walney, Barrow-in-Furness on August 31st.   More info and registration: beachclean.org. #oceanissues #beachclean #makeadifference #togetherwecan

Cigarette butts are the most commonly found items during beach cleanups worldwide, contributing significantly to environmental pollution. Cigarette butts are made of non-biodegradable materials, including plastic fibers, and take years to break down meanwhile releasing toxic chemicals like nicotine, lead, and arsenic into the environment. When cigarette butts enter the ocean, they pose a severe threat to marine life, which may mistake them for food which can cause poisoning or blockages. The chemicals also leach into the water, harming aquatic ecosystems. The prevalence of cigarette butts in beach cleanups underscores the need for greater public awareness and responsible disposal practices. Solutions such as more disposal bins, stricter littering laws, and educational campaigns are vital to reducing this form of pollution, protecting marine life, and preserving the natural beauty of our beaches. #oceanissues #marinepollution #marineconservationinternship #kohtao #beachcleans

Each humpback whale’s fluke (tail fin) is like a fingerprint—no two are the same. The intricate patterns and markings on their flukes help researchers identify individuals and track migration patterns.  Conservation efforts are crucial to protect habitats and ensure survival. By supporting initiatives that reduce ocean pollution, enforce whaling bans, and promote sustainable fishing practices, we can help keep these magnificent creatures thriving for generations to come. Currently, humpback whales are classified as "Least Concern" by the IUCN, thanks to decades of dedicated conservation efforts. #OceanIssues #HumpbackWhales #NaturePatterns #WhaleWatching #ConservationMatters #IUCN

The adorable Atlantic Puffin, with its colorful beak and endearing waddle, is a true marvel of the ocean. These marine birds spend most of their lives at sea, navigating vast distances and diving deep to catch fish. Every summer, they return to coastal cliffs to nest and raise their young pufflings. Climate change and overfishing are putting their survival at risk, threatening the delicate balance of our marine ecosystems. The Atlantic Puffin is now listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, highlighting the need for our conservation efforts. By advocating for sustainable fishing practices, supporting conservation efforts, and taking action on climate change, we can help protect these incredible birds. #OceanIssues #Overfishing #HabitatDestruction #OceanConservation #MarineBirds #WildlifeConservation #IUCN

Something to brighten you day! Common dolphins are known for their impressive speed (up to 60 km/h). They are active predators in marine ecosystems, primarily feeding on fish and squid, this helps regulate prey populations. Although not considered endangered they do face threats such as bycatch, pollution, and habitat degradation. #oceanissues #overfishing #bycatch #habitatdestruction #marineecosystems #cetaceans #commondolphins #marinepollution #IUCN

Beach clean of beautiful Uphill Beach Thursday July 11 at 10 o'clock. More info and registration on Beachclean.org.

Microplastic Survey on the small Dutch island of Schiermonnikoog. The surveys are being done as part of the master’s course Fieldwork Water Quality at the Faculty of Spatial Sciences, University of Groningen. Conducting regular microplastic surveys in the same location provides spatial and temporal data that can show changes in the presence of microplastics over time and help predict future trends. #oceanissues #microplastics #citizenscience #plasticpollution @microplasticsurvey

Tasty snack for the loggerhead turtle. Their strong and massive jaws enable them to crush hard-shelled prey like this conch. In case you were wondering ... it did not manage to get it out. It got bored and swam off, leaving the shell with content behind. Safe, for now. #oceanissues #seaturtles #loggerhead #Caribbean #gopro #mexicancaribbean

It's World Ocean Day. A good day to remind ourselves that "The foundation of all life is in the ocean" (Jean-Michel Cousteau).