Protect The Ocean

15 Powerful Ways You Can Help Protect the Ocean and Marine Wildlife in 2025

The ocean is Earth’s largest and most vital ecosystem, producing over 50% of the oxygen we breathe and supporting an estimated 80% of all life on the planet. Yet today, our oceans and the marine animals that depend on them are under urgent threat from plastic pollution, climate change, overfishing, and other human-driven impacts.

With over 90% of ocean species still unclassified, our understanding of marine biodiversity is just scratching the surface. But one thing is clear: ocean health is essential to life on Earth, and it’s our responsibility to protect it.

Whether you’re near the coast or miles inland, there are simple, impactful actions you can take to support marine conservation. Here are 15 practical ways you can help save the ocean and protect marine animals in 2025.

🌊 1. Conserve Water to Prevent Ocean Runoff

Water conservation helps reduce urban runoff — the flow of contaminated water from land into our oceans, which contributes to 80% of marine pollution.

How to reduce runoff and water waste:

• Take shorter showers – Save up to 10 liters per minute.

• Use rain barrels – Reuse rainwater for gardening.

• Limit laundry days – Only wash full loads.

• Turn off sprinklers in wet seasons or during daylight hours.

• Shut off the tap while brushing teeth – Save up to 30 liters daily.

♻️ 2. Reduce Your Plastic Usage

Each year, over 1.7 million tonnes of plastic waste enter the ocean, threatening marine life and ecosystems.

Easy ways to cut plastic waste:

• Refuse plastic straws and cutlery – Use reusable alternatives.

• Carry a refillable water bottle – Reduces marine animal deaths caused by bottle waste.

• Recycle at home and work – Less than 10% of plastic is currently recycled.

• Join local or beach cleanups – Help remove plastic before it enters waterways.

Microplastics and nurdles (small plastic pellets) are especially deadly to marine animals and accumulate in the food chain — even ending up in our own bodies.

🌍 3. Travel Sustainably and Respect Marine Ecosystems

Tourism contributes 8% of global carbon emissions and can harm both land and marine environments, especially during peak seasons.

Responsible travel tips:

• Respect marine life – Observe from a distance and avoid touching wildlife.

• Avoid single-use items during travel.

• Choose eco-certified restaurants and avoid eating endangered species.

• Participate in eco-tourism that supports local conservation and communities.

• Clean up after yourself at beaches and parks.

Even a single piece of litter can injure marine life or introduce invasive species into fragile habitats.

🐬 4. Support Ocean-Friendly Organizations and Projects

Organizations like IFAW (International Fund for Animal Welfare) are leading the charge to protect the ocean through science-backed, community-led conservation.

IFAW’s key marine projects:

• Blue Speeds Initiative – Reducing ship speed to cut underwater noise pollution.

• Protecting the North Atlantic right whale – Combating entanglement and vessel strikes.

• Ending commercial whaling in Japan, Norway, and Iceland.

• Supporting marine protected areas in Kenya and beyond.

Explore IFAW’s global efforts and learn how to donate, sign petitions, or get involved in meaningful campaigns to safeguard our oceans.

🐢 5. Make Ocean-Conscious Food Choices

Sustainable seafood consumption is key to preventing overfishing and protecting endangered marine species.

Be a conscious consumer:

• Check for sustainable seafood labels (like MSC or ASC).

• Avoid whale meat and products from endangered species.

• Support restaurants and fishmongers that use ethical fishing practices.

🌡️ 6. Reduce Your Carbon Footprint

The ocean absorbs 29% of the world’s carbon emissions, making it the planet’s largest carbon sink. But rising CO₂ levels are causing ocean acidification, which threatens coral reefs and marine biodiversity.

Cut your carbon impact:

• Use public transport or carpool when possible.

• Switch to renewable energy sources at home.

• Eat more plant-based meals to reduce emissions from agriculture.

🧽 7. Choose Non-Toxic Household Products

Household cleaners, fertilizers, and chemicals often end up in drains and flow into the ocean, harming aquatic life.

Eco-friendly alternatives:

• Use biodegradable, phosphate-free cleaners.

• Avoid pesticides and synthetic lawn treatments.

• Properly dispose of hazardous waste at designated facilities.

🧳 8. Avoid Purchasing Ocean-Harming Products

Certain souvenirs and products contribute to marine life exploitation and habitat destruction.

Say no to:

• Coral jewelry

• Shell trinkets

• Shark products (oil, teeth, cartilage)

• Turtle shell crafts

Always research the origin and environmental impact of marine-related products.

🔬 9. Educate Yourself and Others About Ocean Conservation

Knowledge is power. Staying informed empowers you to make sustainable decisions and advocate for marine protection.

Learn and share:

• Follow reputable organizations like IFAW, Oceana, and SeaLegacy.

• Share articles and tips on social media.

• Host or attend ocean awareness events in your community.

🌐 10. Sign Petitions and Advocate for Policy Change

Real change happens through collective action and legislation. Get involved in policy advocacy to demand ocean-friendly laws.

How to take action:

• Sign online petitions for plastic bans, marine protected areas, or whaling bans.

• Contact your local representatives to support ocean conservation policies.

🛍️ 11. Shop Smart and Support Sustainable Brands

Choose brands that are committed to plastic-free, ocean-safe, or climate-conscious practices.

Look for:

• Packaging made from recycled materials

• Certifications like B Corp, Fair Trade, or 1% for the Planet

• Brands that give back to ocean cleanup or wildlife efforts

⚓ 12. Support Marine Protected Areas (MPAs)

Marine Protected Areas safeguard vulnerable ecosystems from overfishing, mining, and pollution.

• Learn about MPAs near you and support expansion efforts.

• Visit MPAs responsibly and encourage others to do the same.

🐟 13. Report Marine Life in Distress

If you spot a stranded animal or injured marine creature, report it to local wildlife authorities or stranding networks immediately. Early intervention can save lives.

📷 14. Practice Ethical Wildlife Photography

Always keep a safe distance from marine animals. Avoid flash photography and never touch or feed wildlife.

🗣️ 15. Use Your Voice to Spread the Word

The more people join the movement, the greater the impact. Use your platforms to speak out for the ocean.

• Share articles and infographics

• Host fundraisers or cleanups

• Collaborate with local environmental groups

🌊 Every Action Counts: Join the Ocean Protection Movement

The health of our oceans depends on collective action — and that includes you. From small daily choices to larger lifestyle changes, your actions can make a real difference.

Support IFAW’s ocean conservation programs, follow these 15 steps, and help build a future where marine animals and habitats can thrive. Together, we can turn the tide on ocean pollution and protect the blue heart of our planet.