No Excuse for Plastic Oceans

The oceans will contain more plastic than fish in just 34 years unless people change their ways, scientists reported in early 2016. The news left me feeling heartsick and helpless.

“What can I do? I’m only one person,” I wondered, as if I had ever met anyone who was more than one person.

I pondered, but only for a moment. I can use less plastic, I noted, and I can eat fewer fish. The answers required little thought.

That was eight weeks ago. I’ve since bought fewer plastic items and I’ve skimped on seafood. And I’ve toured the Monterey Bay Aquarium in central California, during a scheduled visit to the area.

The mission of the aquarium “is to inspire conservation of the ocean.” Right on! The $49.95 admission fee, along with the $120 I paid for two overpriced MBA sweat-shirts, contributed to the aquarium and its conservation programs (see the aquarium’s website for program details).

Wandering among the otters, penguins, octopi, sharks and other sea critters at the aquarium was a thrill. Helping to sustain them with my visit and purchases, and eating fewer fish and avoiding plastic purchases, aren't just acts of kindness. They are instances of acting responsibly.

By Scott Doggett, Reno, Nevada, U.S.A.