Tips to reduce your impact on the planet and our oceans
- Reduce your carbon footprint and energy consumption. Climate change threatens our coral reefs and ocean through extended coral bleaching events and ocean acidification.
- Make safe, sustainable seafood choices
- Don’t litter! Trash can entangle, maim, drown wildlife, and smother coral. Grocery bags, pieces of plastic, and packaging look like food to many animals. When ingested they can cause starvation and even death. Pick up trash when you see it every bit helps.
- Don't purchase products that exploit marine life. Some products contribute to the harming of fragile coral reefs and marine populations. Avoid purchasing items such as coral jewelry, tortoiseshell hair accessories (from hawksbill turtles), and shark products.
- Always pick up pet waste. Pet waste left on the ground will end up in nearshore waters where it adds harmful bacteria and nutrients causing risks to the health of swimmers and threatens wildlife and the marine environment.
- Support coral reef and ocean conservation and policy. Educate your friends and family about these issues. Support Reef Relief coral reef conservation program today
Resources:
Ecological Footprint http://www.myfootprint.org/
EPA 's Household Carbon Footprint Calculator http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/ghgemissions/ind-calculator.html
Zero Footprint Youth Caluclator http://calc.zerofootprint.net/
EarthLab: This calculator breaks down vehicle information by car type.
Carbon Domestic Household Calculator
Carbon Footprint Business Calculator: For businesses in North America and many other areas of the world. The sign-up process requires you to give your workplace information, so be prepared.
Target Finder: This quick Energy Star calculator allows architects or folks in the construction industry to plan an energy-efficient target for building projects, which, of course, lowers that building's emissions.