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How To Keep Trash Out of the Ocean

A study shows that plastic debris in the ocean is a significant threat to sea turtles, sea birds, and other marine mammals. Over 267 marine species are in grave danger due to mismanaged trash in the water bodies. Plastic is the most hazardous trash in the ocean because it doesn’t break down quickly. These plastics remain on the surface, suspended, or at the bottom of the ocean, causing harmful effects to the ecosystem. And to think that the world produces over 300 million tons of plastic materials each year means that we need to take immediate action.

If you plan to help keep trash out of the ocean, you are in the right place. With little actions and environmental consciousness, you can help keep our oceans clean.

Where is the source of trash in the ocean?

When you see trash in the ocean, you might think that they are only litter from beachgoers. While it is true, debris in the ocean or sea can also originate from residential homes, streets, and landfills. Wind can blow out trash from dumpsters, trash bins, roads, and dumps into the sewer/storm drains that lead to a river and ultimately into the ocean. These trash accumulates in the ocean with plastics breaking down into microplastics due to the intense solar heat.

Recycle plastics as much as possible

One of the best and effective ways to help keep trash out of the ocean is proper garbage disposal, recycling, and reusing. Put recyclable plastics in your curbside recycling bin or return them to your local grocery store. You can also check with your area municipality about the recycling of plastics. Remember, not all plastics are recyclable, and it is crucial to know the type of plastics you are using. There are codes in each plastic product that show if it is recyclable. You can contact American Reclamation if you need help with recycling.

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Avoid the use of single-use plastics.

Taking action on the source to keep garbage out of the ocean is also another direct and best way. This means that you avoid using single-use plastics like straws, plastic water bottles, plastic utensils, take-out containers, and plastic bags. There are alternative reusable products to these single-use plastics you can opt for instead of using plastics. Ask for reusable grocery bags when you visit your grocery store, carry reusable utensils whenever you need to and avoid products used once at all costs.

Be part of a river cleanup.

Another way to keep our oceans trash-free is by keeping trash out before it reaches the ocean. And this can be through a river cleanup. Rivers connecting with the ocean are some of the trash channels where they accumulate over time and end up in the ocean. You can organize a river cleanup with your community or check if non-profit organizations plan river cleaning events in your area. Go to the river and pick up trash before it gets to the ocean.

At American Reclamation, we join efforts with local communities in removing trash from our rivers, and you can send us a quick message if you have an upcoming river cleanup event.

Pick up after yourself when you go to the beach.

Imagine the amount of trash in the ocean if everyone left garbage on the beach. Pick up trash you generate while at the beach and discard them properly. You can also visit your local beach and collect waste as an individual or organize a team to clean up the coast.

You can play a role as an individual in keeping our oceans clean by doing little things like proper trash disposal and recycling—volunteer to clean up and support plastic ban movements.

American Reclamation is here to support your efforts in keeping trash out of the ocean. Contact us for a dumpster rental and keep our Los Angeles community and environment clean.