Thanks for tuning in for part two of the video series featuring Conservation International! This week, Harrison Ford narrates the ocean's significance to humans. The oceans cover 71% of the Earth's surface and contains 99% of the living space on the plant (Oceanic Institute). Yet, more than 95% of its depths have not been explored. The oceans play a key part in the Earth's climate and weather systems (NOAA). Its waters act as a conveyer belt transporting warm water around the globe. Like Ford states, everything starts from the ocean and eventually cycles back. We rely on it for stable weather and resources.
However, we are not the only species that uses the ocean. It is home to more than a million different species, and scientist believe there could be millions more we haven't even discovered yet (Discovery).
Living near water has always been seen as an advantage economically, but we have overstepped our power. Polluting, oil spills, over fishing , and destruction of coral reefs is destroying the ecosystem of the ocean. If the ocean cannot function properly due to our human activity, many species will suffer, including ourselves.
However, we are not the only species that uses the ocean. It is home to more than a million different species, and scientist believe there could be millions more we haven't even discovered yet (Discovery).
Living near water has always been seen as an advantage economically, but we have overstepped our power. Polluting, oil spills, over fishing , and destruction of coral reefs is destroying the ecosystem of the ocean. If the ocean cannot function properly due to our human activity, many species will suffer, including ourselves.
"It's not their planet anyway, never was, never will be. But humans, they take more than their share. They poison me and then expect me to feed them."
The Earth's resources are limited. If we don't start taking care of our planet soon, we will only speed up the process. Humans are not excluded from Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection. A species will either learn to adapt its way of living or they won't survive. Are you ready to contribute to the change?
Take Action
If you are ready to take action, here is one simple way to begin your conservation journey: buy sustainable seafood! Monterey Bay Aquarium has begun the Seafood Watch program to help make those choices. Download their app to guide you while out shopping. Sustainable seafood means purchasing seafood that has stable populations and hasn't been overfished. Making these small changes in your daily life can make a strong impact!