The Staggering Rise of Ocean Plastic: A Call to Action

Plastic pollution in our oceans has reached alarming levels. Since 2005, the amount of plastic debris in our seas has skyrocketed, creating a crisis that threatens marine life, ecosystems, and human health.

Let’s take a closer look at this pressing issue and how we can collectively tackle it.

The Current State of Ocean Plastic

According to recent studies, the volume of plastic in the ocean has increased significantly over the past two decades. In 2005, approximately 15 million metric tons of plastic were estimated to be in the ocean.

By 2020, that figure had risen to an astounding 40 million metric tons, with projections suggesting it could reach 100 million metric tons by 2030 if current trends continue.

Key Statistics:

Microplastics: Over 80% of the plastic pollution in the ocean comes from land-based sources. This includes everything from single-use plastics to larger debris that breaks down into microplastics, which are less than 5mm in size.

Marine Life Impact: An estimated 1 million marine creatures, including fish, seabirds, and marine mammals, die each year due to plastic pollution. Animals ingest or become entangled in plastic waste, often leading to injury or death.

Human Health Concerns: Microplastics have been found in the air we breathe, the food we eat, and even in drinking water. The long-term health effects are still being studied, but concerns about the potential impact on human health are rising.

The Sources of Ocean Plastic

The primary sources of ocean plastic include:

Single-use plastics: Items like straws, bags, and bottles contribute significantly to marine litter.
Improper waste management: Inadequate recycling systems and littering lead to plastic waste finding its way into rivers and oceans.
Fishing gear: Abandoned, lost, or discarded fishing nets (often referred to as “ghost gear”) account for a significant portion of ocean plastic, harming marine life and ecosystems.

The Path Forward

Addressing the ocean plastic crisis requires collective action. Here are some ways individuals and communities can help:

Reduce Plastic Use: Opt for reusable items instead of single-use plastics, such as bags, bottles, and utensils.
Participate in Cleanups: Engage in local beach cleanups to remove plastic waste from shorelines and prevent it from entering the ocean.
Support Sustainable Brands: Choose to buy from companies that prioritise sustainability and environmentally friendly practices.

How Blem Helps to Combat Ocean Plastic

At Blem, we recognize the urgency of the ocean plastic crisis and are dedicated to making a difference. Our products are designed with sustainability in mind:

Recycled Materials: Our swim shorts are made from recycled plastic bottles, helping to reduce waste and keep plastic out of our oceans.

Durable and Long-lasting: We focus on creating high-quality, durable products that minimise the need for frequent replacements, thus reducing overall consumption.

Eco-Friendly Practices: We prioritise environmentally responsible manufacturing processes, ensuring our impact on the planet is as minimal as possible.

By choosing Blem, you’re not just investing in high-quality beach essentials; you’re also supporting a brand committed to making a positive impact on our oceans.

Together, we can help turn the tide on ocean plastic pollution and create a healthier planet for future generations. Join us in this essential mission.