The oceans are the cradle of life itself. These boundless waters regulate the climate, provide food, and support a rich diversity of species. Yet beneath the waves lies a plague of our own making: single-use plastics. As we celebrate World Oceans Day 2024, it is time to confront this threat head-on to ensure that the lifeblood of our planet remains vibrant and safe for generations to come.
Why Should We Ban Single-Use Plastics?
Each year, around 8 million tons of plastic waste, much of it single-use plastics, enter the oceans. Many marine animals ingest plastic debris, leading to physical blockages or malnutrition. They also get entangled in abandoned fishing nets, lines, and other plastic waste, leading to injury, infection, and often—death. These harmful interactions also occur because plastics aren’t biodegradable; they break down ever so slowly, persisting for centuries.
When they do disintegrate, they release toxic chemicals, which leach into water and bioaccumulate in the food chain. These endanger marine life and potentially affect human health when seafood is consumed.
Floating plastics also disrupt ecosystems by transporting invasive species such as sea snails, sea anemones, and isopods to new environments, wreaking havoc on local biodiversity.
Without a doubt, the impact of plastic pollution underscores the urgent need for global awareness and action. World Oceans Day exemplifies this necessity.
What is World Oceans Day?
World Oceans Day is an international celebration that aims to boost awareness about the ocean’s pivotal role in our lives and the need to protect it. Officially recognized by the United Nations in 2008, this event serves as an excellent opportunity to educate the public about the impact of our actions on the ocean. The event also seeks to mobilize the world’s population to support sustainable ocean management. Every year, World Oceans Day features a specific theme to address various ocean-related issues and promote global action.
Collective Actions for a Healthier Ocean
For World Oceans Day 2024, the United Nations’ theme is “Awaken New Depths.” This choice emphasizes the need for a deeper understanding and commitment to ocean conservation, highlighting that our current efforts have only skimmed the surface. The clarion call is for a renewed focus on comprehensive and long-term ocean protection strategies.
This year’s occasion will take place on June 7, 2024, at the UN Headquarters in New York, both virtually and in person. Organized by the UN Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea (DOALOS) in partnership with Oceanic Global, the day will feature discussions on ocean health, climate change, and sustainable practices.
A significant focus of World Oceans Day 2024 is combating single-use plastic pollution. Thus, the event will spotlight innovative solutions and promote policies to reduce plastic waste. For instance, as part of the celebration, the Biden administration announced phasing out single-use plastics in national parks and public lands by 2032.
All these align with ongoing efforts by the United Nations and other international bodies to establish a legally binding global plastic pollution treaty by the end of 2024.
Complementing these global initiatives are individual and community actions critical to achieving plastic-free oceans. Simple actions, such as finding alternatives to single-use plastics, participating in beach clean-ups, and supporting sustainable seafood, can make a significant impact. Educational programs and local events are likewise vital in spreading awareness and engaging communities in protecting marine ecosystems.
Turning the Tide on Ocean Plastic with Cruz Foam
As World Oceans Day 2024 approaches, Cruz Foam stands resolute in the fight against ocean plastic pollution. Our sustainable packaging solutions decompose in 100 days or less, offering an excellent biodegradable alternative to traditional petroleum-based foams.
Take, for instance, Eco Vino™, a one-of-a-kind sustainable wine shipping product. This certified biodegradable and compostable foam is bioengineered using 70% upcycled food waste. Then there’s Cruz Cool™, the ultimate sustainable cold chain packaging solution that keeps content cold for 48+ hours. At the same time, it’s made without synthetic liners and is industrially compostable.
By leveraging Cruz Foam’s groundbreaking innovations, you can help clear the way to cleaner, plastic-free seas. Partner with Cruz Foam today and discover how we can help you achieve your sustainability goals.
