Ways to Save Aquatic Animals

In many areas of the world, aquatic animals are suffering from poisoning, trapping, sonar and other dangers. The world's oceans are becoming increasingly acidic and filled with pollution, while environmental groups and some governments struggle to stem the tide. Often people wish they could help, but don't know how. However, concerned citizens can help in many ways. According to the World Wildlife Fund, more than 80 percent of ocean pollution stems from land activities, so working for change on dry land can benefit aquatic environments.

  1. Write Letters

    • Writing letters to your congressman, senator, or another official can encourage them to implement policies that benefit aquatic life. Also, write letters to the editor about issues that concern you. Responding to a timely issue, like a public comment period regarding ocean policy, can get the word out to hundreds or thousands of people about what they can do. And submit public comments yourself when the opportunity presents itself.

    Volunteer

    • Ask yourself how you could help a nonprofit organization that works to save aquatic life. Would you prefer doing hands-on work in the field or working at a computer? Also, consider which of your skills would most benefit the organization's efforts. Then, apply to an organization that might need someone to fulfill the type of role you'd prefer.

    Talk

    • Talk with friends, family, and acquaintances about issues that concern you. Inspire them to care about aquatic animals and to get involved with helping them. In doing this, you'll be building a team of people who can help.

    Vote

    • Vote for politicians, at every level of government, who support policies that you agree with. Pay attention to campaign speeches and interviews, and research the politician's record to see how she voted on environmental issues. Talk with others about why you're voting for this candidate. You don't have to force your views on them, but give them the information they need to make a conscientious decision.

    Choose Products Wisely

    • When shopping for food or other products, choose those with less packaging, and look for locally made products. Avoid plastic, and recycle it if you use it, cutting six-pack holders and other circular plastic loops apart.

    Contribute Money

    • Contributing money to an environmental group can also make a difference, though it's no substitute for sharing your views. It will complement your other efforts to save aquatic animals. Research an organization thoroughly before donating, making sure it has a strong track record of successfully helping animals and their habitats.

    Attend Meetings

    • When possible, attend meetings related to water policy. Storm drains are an important issue you could address if you live near an ocean or river. These drains often carry garbage and other pollution to the ocean. Make your concerns about aquatic life heard because these concerns often take a backseat to human health and economic issues. Stress that all of these issues should be solved together, with concerned parties working together to find a solution.

    Learn

    • Keep learning about environmental issues so you'll be better equipped to help. Staying abreast of nonaquatic issues as well as those involving water will help you to seem more knowledgeable. Plus, it will give you a more well-rounded perspective of environmental issues.