Here are some concrete steps you can take to support ocean conservation, particularly coral reef protection:
Educate and Spread Awareness
- Share knowledge about coral reef conservation with friends, family, and your community (which is what this project is all about!); and
- Encourage local businesses, schools, and organizations to adopt reef-friendly practices.
Be a Responsible Traveler
- Avoid damaging the reef or harassing the sea life when you scuba dive or snorkel;
- Choose Eco-friendly tour operators that follow responsible marine tourism practices; and
- Never purchase souvenirs made from coral, shells, or marine life.
Reduce Your Carbon Footprint
- Use energy-efficient appliances and switch to renewable energy sources when possible;
- Reduce single-use plastics, which contribute to ocean pollution;
- Opt for sustainable transportation methods like biking, public transit, or carpooling;
- “Buy local” when possible, to reduce greenhouse emissions resulting from shipping; and
- Reduce agricultural emissions by substituting plant-based proteins for some red meat and dairy products.
Support Reef-Safe Products
- Use reef-safe sunscreen that does not contain oxybenzone or octinoate, chemicals that harm corals; and
- Choose environmentally friendly household cleaners and personal care products to prevent harmful chemicals from entering waterways.
Make Sustainable Seafood Choices
- Follow sustainable seafood guides (e.g. Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch);
- support fish markets and restaurants that and sell bycatch; and
- Avoid species that are overfished or caught using destructive methods like bottom trawling.
Support Marine Conservation Organizations
- Donate to or volunteer with organizations such as Coral Restoration Foundation, The Coral Reef Alliance, and Reef Check;
- Participate in reef clean-up, fish counts, or coral restoration programs; and
- Be a virtual volunteer for “Citizen Science” projects such as Spyfish Aotearoa or Click a Coral.
Reduce Water Pollution
- Avoid fertilizers and pesticides in gardening, as runoff can contribute to ocean pollution; and
- Properly dispose of chemicals, medications, and trash to prevent contamination of waterways.
Get Involved in Policy and Advocacy
- Support legislation that protects coral reefs and marine ecosystems; and
- Advocate for Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) which help reefs recover from damage.