Why nothing should go into the ocean
Think of the ocean as a big home for animals and plants. Trash of any kind can hurt them. Plastic stays in the water for a long time and can break into tiny pieces called microplastics, which animals mistake for food.
What cannot go in the ocean
- Plastic bags, bottle caps, straws, and other plastic litter
- Food wrappers and foam cups
- Glass bottles and metal cans
- Fishing nets, lines, and ropes
- Batteries, electronics, and other hazardous waste
- Pesticides, oil, paint, and chemicals
- Yard waste like leaves or branches
What you should do instead
- Put trash in the appropriate bin (recycle, compost, or garbage) on land.
- Recycling means you turn items into new things later.
- Compost fruit and vegetable scraps if your town allows it; otherwise put them in the compost bin at home.
- Take your trash with you when you go to the beach or park and use the nearby bins.
- If you see litter on the beach, pick it up with an adult and put it in a bin.
- For dangerous items (batteries, electronics, chemicals), take them to a special collection site.
Quick tips for a 10-year-old
- Carry a small bag for trash when you walk or go to the shore.
- Ask an adult to help you recycle or throw away items properly.
- Join a local beach cleanup to practice helping the ocean.
Remember: Nothing should be tossed into the ocean on purpose. Keep beaches and seas clean for plants and animals to live healthy lives.