Several hundred thousand pieces of microplastic and plastic waste are already floating in every square kilometer of sea. Experts predict that by 2050 there will be more plastic than fish by weight in the oceans.
Small plastic particles (eg polyethylene) can hide in cosmetics, soaps and even toothpaste. Their rough surface should support the cleaning process. Plastics find their way into our rivers and seas via wastewater. There, the animals mistake the plastic for food – often with devastating consequences. There are already simple alternatives to microplastics, for example in natural cosmetics.

Sign a marine conservation agreement or join a marine conservation organization. The pillage and destruction of our oceans must end. Much has already been achieved through petitions and every vote counts for the sea to rebel against the powerful industries. Important goals of a petition are, for example: A marine protection agreement that ensures that marine protected areas are set up and enforced on the high seas - not just on paper. Mission Blue and Greenpeace, for example, are campaigning for a worldwide network of protected areas that will protect at least 30 percent of the seas from human intervention by 2030 - and thus make the world's oceans more resistant to the effects of climate change. Becoming a member is an active contribution.

Most edible fish species are already overfished today. Unfortunately, this also includes tuna, herring, cod, plaice and Alaska pollock. Our tip: Try to see fish as a delicacy, which you rarely and consciously choose. Rely on local freshwater fish, such as char or brown trout. Ideally from organic farming. Let's give the other fish species their much-needed breather. Please note that most seals do not guarantee truly sustainable fishing, although they claim to be so.

"The next time you dine on sushi - or sashimi, or swordfish steak, or shrimp cocktail, whatever wildlife you happen to enjoy from the ocean - think of the real cost. For every pound that goes to market, more than 10 pounds, even 100 pounds, may be thrown away as bycatch. This is the consequence of not knowing that there are limits to what we can take out of the sea.” SYLVIA EARLE

Many cruise ships contribute to ocean acidification with cheap, harmful fuel. The Mediterranean Sea in particular suffers from this. The noise from large ships also disturbs the orientation of marine animals. There are many ways to travel more eco-friendly! With a clear conscience, we can also relax better on vacation.

Please dispose of the rubbish lying around on your favorite beach, even if it's not your rubbish. The next wave will definitely come and take the manure into the sea. Even with these small steps we can save the seas from further pollution. And imagine the effect it has when others follow our example. It's our planet - let's clean it up together.

Without our help, whales, turtles and penguins are defenseless against human exploitation. They cannot uncover environmental crimes, sue unscrupulous companies, or engage in protests. We humans have to do that for them. But it is not always easy to combine this with everyday life. That's why it's important that there are organizations like Mission Blue, Sea Sheppard, Greenpeace and other activists that we can support with a membership or donation.