Our proposals and demands to combat marine pollution
In this case, a great deal of power lies with the consumer. We decide how we want to live and how we shape our future. We bear the responsibility through our purchasing decisions and our lifestyle choices.
There are no more excuses. Everyone can take action.
Noise Pollution in the Oceans
Why do whales and dolphins beach? Why do sharks and other marine organisms lose their orientation? One potential cause is noise pollution in our oceans. This must be reduced. Based on scientific research, migratory routes, and population data of threatened species, marine noise-protection zones must be developed. Military exercises involving low-frequency and mid-frequency sonar must be restricted to a minimum and conducted outside of migratory corridors. Local production systems, which eliminate the need to ship globally manufactured products, could represent an alternative ecological approach. Modern, alternative shipping technologies that mitigate noise from propellers and engines are equally essential. The deployment of seismic airguns for oil exploration must be restricted to a minimum.
A comprehensive overview of publications on this subject is available here:
https://www.oceancare.org/de/unsere-arbeit/publikationen/#Unterwasserlärm
https://www.oceancare.org/de/unsere-arbeit/meeresschutz/unterwasserlarm/silent-oceans-ursachen-des-unterwasserlaerms/
Plastic Waste
Our oceans must no longer be misused as waste dumps. A paradigm shift is urgently required. Legislation banning, for example, microplastics as well as liquid polymers in cosmetics and household products must be rigorously enforced. This demands action from policymakers, but primarily from industry, which has so far demonstrated little initiative to alter its manufacturing processes.
Single-use plastic tableware and cutlery have been banned in the EU since January 2021. Germany has implemented this regulation as of 3 July 2021. Nevertheless, consumers should also actively avoid plastic in their daily lives. If packaging is unavoidable, it should be reused to serve a practical purpose.
Zero-waste packaging concepts can also be partially integrated into supermarkets. The thin plastic bags at vegetable counters must finally be permanently phased out. Banning and penalising represent one approach, but individual action is far more critical. Every single person can and must act, because every plastic bag or packaging item that is not produced—specifically because consumers reject plastic—is far superior to recycling already manufactured plastic packaging, particularly regarding the crude oil production required for its manufacture.
Further information on how to avoid plastic can be found in our section "Nachhaltig leben".
What do we offer?
ElasmOcean provides scientific facts regarding plastic, its environmental impact, its proper handling, and avoidance. ElasmOcean members are trained volunteer speakers who provide educational information on plastic management at schools, institutions, companies, associations, museums, as well as during festivals, events, and family gatherings.
Inquiries can be sent to kontakt@elasmocean.org
Who supports us?
Our patron for "marine pollution" is Hannes Jaenicke.
For many years, the actor Hannes Jaenicke has been actively committed to environmental and marine conservation, advocating for a better relationship with nature. His ZDF documentaries "Im Einsatz für..." demonstrate with urgency the critical importance of protecting our fauna and oceans. For years, he has also consistently campaigned against marine pollution and for a more rational approach to plastic. Hannes Jaenicke lives his message consistently and sustainably.
We are highly privileged that he has agreed to act as the patron for this division. We could not wish for a more authentic patron than someone who views utilizing their public profile for a better world as their life's work.
_work.