and Ecosystems

are Concerning Scientists

and what can we do to help

stop these irreversible consequences?

What does endangered mean?

Not only are the reefs a great concern, but our oceans are also facing the endangerment list along with all types of animals, insects, primates and other species around the world.

Problems with the Great Barrier Reef are a huge concern for the ecosystem as about 30% of the coral has died since November 2016 due to chemical run offs, pollution, and trash in the ocean.

About Two Thirds of the Caribbean coral reefs are being threatened because of over fishing as well as the problems above.

In Central America the Belize Barrier Reef has the biggest coral reef in the Northern Hemisphere, but is in danger due to oil and gas exploration.

Along the beautiful southeastern shores in of Florida is an area about 175 miles and over 100,000 acres that are infected with a rapidly moving pathogen causing the reefs to turn white and die. There are 25 species of coral in Florida’s reef and 21 of these have been affected. Some of theses include the staghorn, brain, cavernous, acorn and mountain star just to name a few.

Alaska has huge kelp forests that almost appear to be like an underwater forest according to some, but they are also being polluted.

While the reefs and kelp forest are a concern, there are other wildlife living in the waters that need immediate attention also.

There are so many different species on the endangered list, that it just doesn’t seem right. What are we doing that can be changed so that we, and our children and hopefully our grandchildren will be able to enjoy the earth in all it’s beauty?

With spills inevitable and chemicals seeping into the ground and our drinking water, there’s simply NO MORE TIME left to think about doing something. We MUST act diligently and effectively if there’s any hope at all of saving some of our incredible planet.

The manatee, chimp, giant panda, elephant, giraffe, is also on the endangered list

A few things we can do to help save the planet:

Travel

When you’re traveling, make sure to keep in mind that you and your family are adding to the tourism trash, chemical, septic system use and more. Take the approach that you’ll be forward thinking about this and take out what you bring in. In other words, don’t litter, throw things in the sewage that might harm the new environment, or do anything that would cause harmful overuse in the tourist area. Use water sparingly as well, the planet itself is thirsty and we need to help conserve as much water as possible. By keeping these items in mind, you’ll be helping others around the world do our part in keeping the planet a little healthier.

Microplastics

Cut back on, or Do NOT use products that contain Microplastic Globules which are found in many synthetic products such as skin exfoliation, and scrub remedy products. These fine particles of microplastic are carried via sewage system into the lakes and oceans which is causing problems with the food chain.

Antibiotics

Problems with many types of pharmaceuticals are causing ecosystem havoc. One particular problem is with antibiotics. Due to the mixing of these drugs, scientists are finding that new strains of diseases are becoming tolerant and resisting antibiotics, not only to people but wildlife as well.

Plastic soda and beer ties

These round plastic devices are being found all around the world doing damage to wildlife. Turtles swim into them as they’re growing and get caught, then grow too big and has been known to deform the turtle shell almost as if you’re looking at a figure 8 or infinity sign. Dolphins have been known to get them stuck on their snout and unable to get them off causing starvation and death. This is a small part of the story where wildlife has become part of the plastic story, and this isn’t the way it’s suppose to be. There is now a company that makes these and they’re safe for the environment as they are biodegradable.