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Kids Organize to Save Our Oceans by April Thompson
NEW WAVE E
arth’s oceans shelter more than a million species, employ millions of people and feed billions more.
Their complex ecosystems increasingly face critical challenges, including acidifi cation, overfi shing and pollution. Inspiring us all, youths nationwide are stepping up with bold, creative actions benefi ting present and future generations to show us how we too, can do our part. Sean Russell, 24, of Englewood, Florida, was exposed to ocean wonders in junior marine conservation summer camps and 4-H programs. Volunteering with Mote Marine Laboratory’s dolphin research program, in Sarasota, Russell was struck by how improperly discarded fi shing line entangled and killed dolphins and other wildlife. At 16, he launched the Stow It—Don’t Throw It Project to promote portable receptacles made from repurposed tennis ball containers for anglers to stash used fi shing line for later safe disposal on shore. More than 21,000 containers have been distributed nationwide to date. While earning a bachelor’s degree in biology, Russell launched the Youth Ocean Conservation Summit to harness youth enthusiasm for related issues. Six summits have convened hundreds of concerned young change-makers and adult professionals. “Young people learn about current threats to marine life and become inspired by peers sharing ideas
and successes,” says Russell. Planning and skill-building sessions fuel action, often assisted by microgrants to help kick-start community projects. Russell is also involved with the nonprofi t EarthEcho International, which activates young leaders through peer-to-peer networks. One recent campaign, 3T4E, encouraged youth worldwide to pick up three pieces of trash on November 1 and document their efforts. Nearly 2 million social media impressions later, they’ve reached youth in 24 states, in 19 countries and on six continents, according to Executive Director Mia DeMezza. Founded by siblings Philippe and Alexandra Cousteau, the Washington, D.C., EarthEcho shares service learning stories that record steps young people are taking to mitigate local waterway issues. In a virtual classroom fi eld trip series, they can explore issues such as oceanic dead zones and acidifi cation through dynamic multimedia presentations. “These young people are going to inherit the problems we’ve created, and deserve a seat at the table,” says DeMezza. Given the opportunity, youth can play a key role in conservation, research and policy making for Earth’s oceans. “I look at youth not as leaders of the future, but leaders of today,” says Russell. Connect with freelance writer April Thompson, in Washington, D.C., at
AprilWrites.com.
26 Central Florida natural awakenings
Can Do Now What We
Everyone has a part to play in keeping oceans clean and healthy. Here are some ways concerned individuals of all ages can help.
Do away with disposable plastics. Use reusable alternatives to single-use plastics such as plastic bags, water bottles, to-go containers, takeaway cups and straws, all of which clog the oceans and endanger 600 aquatic species due to ingestion or entanglement.
Green what drains. Anything that washes down the drain can end up in waterways. Avoid dumping chemicals like paint, oil and solvents and opt for non- toxic cleaning products like DIY cleaners made from vinegar and baking soda, which are safe for people and the seas.
Eat smart. Per a 2016 United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization report, nearly a third of commercial fi sh stocks are now fi shed at dangerously unsustainable levels. Find best choices on the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s downloadable sustainable seafood
guide and app at
SeafoodWatch.org
when dining or shopping, and ask seafood eateries and fi sh counters to carry ocean-friendly selections.
Reduce fertilizers. Fertilizer runoff from gardens and commercial agriculture eventually end up in oceans, leading to “dead zones” with low levels of oxygen that kill aquatic life.
Cut energy use. Carbon dioxide from fossil fuel consumption is turning oceans acidic, which is particularly harmful to coral reefs. Use energy-effi cient appliances and vehicles, opt for renewable energy plans from local utilities and bike, walk and take public transit.
Primary sources:
Ocean.si.edu;
Ocean.org;
Ocean.NationalGeographic.com
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