We Are All Part Of The Ocean’s Health: Part I

The ocean is a vast “organism” on the face of our living planet. It is directly involved in our weather, absorbing toxins from the air and what is given to it, and it provides a home for countless species. It also has an intimate and symbiotic relationship with all humans. When we go into the ocean, we are connected to over 95% of all the water that exists on the face of the planet! We are all part of this enormous organism, which is very much alive.

      This organism relies on a biodiverse array of living beings to keep it healthy and balanced. Conserving and healing the biodiverse population is the essence of the health of our planet, wildlife and coastal communities especially. Valuing its Presence in our lives and the need to care for it in whatever ways we can consider is a vital component of a truly sustainable lifestyle.

      Biodiversity damage or loss negatively impacts the ecosystems within the ocean and reduces the resiliency of this great organism. The corals in the ocean, which comprise over 6500 species, form the reef structures that are critical to the health of the oceans. Loss of this structure due to plastics, dynamite fishing, and ships, and acidification all negatively impact the ocean ecosystems. These impacts are cumulatively impactful on the larger species dwelling within the oceans. For examples, green sea turtles, blue whales, shellfish of all varieties are being challenged by the plastics, human/industrial abuse/ toxic chemicals, and resultant toxicity and consequential rising temperatures all negatively impact health and wellbeing of the oceans. The ocean’s health and well-being lies in the health of the biodiversity and preservation of the vital habitats and ecosystems. This health is crucial to our shared survival and the survival of our own species. Thank you for considering this vital component in your lives and your lifestyle.