Marine Habitat Destruction
By: Carolyn Potral, Megan Nouri, Laura Lee, & Anthony Kaso
Introduction
Habitat destruction is something that we should take action of. Hundreds and thousands of marine animals and habitats are killed each day because of one main reason: humans. We are the main source of harm to the ocean and it's up to us to prevent more destruction from happening.
Causes and Effects
Climate Change
Sometimes, climate change can be harmful to ocean habitats because marine animals can’t adapt easily to abrupt temperature change.
Over-fishing
Heavy equipment and fishing materials can be damaging to ocean creatures and it can also ruin the marine food chain. Species are going extinct faster because humans are consuming many different marine animals.
Pollution
Pollution like oil, litter, and plastic is very destructive on land and is negative under water as well. Creatures may consume litter thinking it is a kind of food, and that can be fatal to their health.
Industrial Development
Humans continue to destroy habitats for consumption, cleared for agriculture, housing, roads, pipelines, and more. This leads to marine animals that live in those habitats to die away as well.
Facts and Statistics
Disappearing Coral Reefs
-Over 80% of coral reefs in southeast Asia are at risk of completely being destroyed, with no chance of reconstruction.
-10% of the worlds reefs have been completely destroyed in the Philippines, where coral reef destruction is the worst. Over 70% have been destroyed and only 5% can be saved.
Oil spills and dumpings
-Everyday, in Europe roughly 275 illegal oil dumps are made and 55,000 tons of of oily fuel is spilled into the ocean.
Fishing
-20,000 tons of fish are taken out of the ocean, while an additional 3,000 tons are thrown back injured or dead each day.
-Back in 2006 scientist, Boris Worm predicted by 2048, the ocean will be completely out of fish if the marine habitat destruction continues.
Taking Action
Fewer Plastic Products
Use reusable water bottles, reusable grocery bags, and reusable containers. This can help less plastic debris from traveling its way into the ocean. Recycle when possible to help a healthy trash system.
Support
You can help save the ocean by volunteering to clean up our beaches. Taking time out of your day to help pick up trash can make a big impact. Support organizations that are trying to help prevent habitat destruction and get people around you to join in as well.
Educate Yourself
A problem that many people face is that they don't know much about what's going on. Educate yourself with research and get into the movement. Educate others and inspire them to learn more and take action too.