Growing up in a beach town, I have always loved the ocean and all the adventures it has to offer. As I've gotten older, I've seen a need to stop the often stubborn response to anyone asking to protect the place we love so much. I have spoken to many people that would rather have the convenience that comes from single use plastic products than the challenge of protecting our beloved aquatic life. The way we react to the shocking news of having over 18 billions pounds of trash in the ocean will determine how long it will take to fix it or if we will have enough time to do so. But the truth of the matter is, there is currently not enough people aware of what they could do or simply not interested enough to change anything and it is very easy to just throw out an excuse that allows us to continue living life per usual. Some of the excuses I have used or have heard other say include:
Excuse #1
"Using a straw just makes the drink more attractive and fun!"
My question is, "would you rather have a cute instagram post or an entire ocean filled with diversity that we can enjoy?" I think you can have both a cute picture and save the ocean, just use metal. Also, cute beach pictures get more likes than a picture of a drink anyway.
Excuse #2
"I need a straw and a plastic lid to prevent me from spilling my drink everywhere."
There are so many stores that sell reusable bottles and other means to prevent the use of single-use plastic. Next time you're at a restaurant or a drive thru, ask them if you can use your own cup. Nine times out of ten they will say yes, and some places even encourage this practice! At Starbucks, it is cheaper to bring your own cup and there are many other coffee chains using this practice as well.
Excuse #3
"I can't keep up with a metal straw."
Companies have started to explore different ways to make this problem easier! Some have started to produce cute little foldable straws that you can attach to your keys. The addition of another key chain could save so much of our ocean's diversity.
Excuse #4
"How come all of sudden people are caring about my plastic, I've been using it for years, why should I have to change?"
Yes, this has been a way of life for multiple decades but we as humans have the ability to adapt. I think it is necessary for everyone to try to start declining straws and plastic bags and to pick up new habits that will help preserve our planet. I had a hard time commiting to metal straws myself because I didn't want to bother anyone and it seemed like my one straw wouldn't matter, but I now know turning down one can prevent a turtle from dying. Grocery stores have also made it easier to stop using plastic bags by selling cute, cheap reusable bags right next to the check-out so you do not forget. I found it easier to just keep mine in my car so I have them when I need them. Just little changes here and there can make a big difference!
Excuse #5
"Who even needs turtles anyway?"
I have heard so many people say this and it is a popular comment on instagram but seriously everyone needs turtles! All ecosystems have balance and if one aspect of that is changed, there is a likelihood that another aspect of that ecosystem could implode, overproduce, or become extinct. Turtles are one of the oldest species on earth and to take them out of the equation, not only will diversity be lost but other species may be at risk, thus harming the ocean as a whole. If you need more convincing, you can always click here to explore the endangered species.
As Sir Isaac Newton once said, "Every action has an equal opposite reaction." If nothing changes, each of our actions involving the use of disposable plastic, will have a negative reaction involving the death of aquatic life and the destruction of the ocean's beauty. The ocean is a vital aspect of my life and I do not know what my life would be if I knew I did nothing to save my home. Please be conscious of the changing waves and remember that the well being of our ocean matters and is in our hands. If you have any questions about how you can help save the turtles or to replenish the health of our ocean, please click here.
