I think we can all agree that all of us here are sea lovers. Whether it be just appreciating it from afar, or enjoying activities involving it, we love anything sea! However, it is always important to keep in mind how we can be respectful of the sea while enjoying it. Certain measures should be considered so that by practicing our favorite sport we are not harming the ecosystem that surrounds us. In this blogpost, we discuss how we can all be more conscious of our actions around the open water!
It is important to always have an attitude of respect and consideration for the environment, as without it we can cause a lot of harm without even realising that we are. The main aim should be to always make sure that we don’t leave any trace of our presence in the natural environment that surrounds the sea. When it comes to swimming, there are some things we can all implement as basic practices. First, when using sunscreen, make sure to get one that is environmentally friendly. There are many sunscreens that have chemical elements in them and when these elements dissolve, they can have a very harmful effect in the marine species and habitats. Second, make sure not to leave anything behind, on the beach or in the water. Whether it be leftover food, or any sort of packaging, always take it with you. Furthermore, if you see litter laying around make sure to pick it up and make sure that it is properly discarded. Third, don’t take anything away from the natural environment. Things such as shells, stones, algae, corals, or aquatic plants should remain where they belong, as taking any of these might disrupt the habitat of the beach.
It is a good idea to do some research before you visit a new beach. Asking locals is always a good idea, usually they would know the area best or might direct you in the right direction to find accurate information. Make sure to use the indicated access points when entering the water, as this usually means that it is safe for you, and the marine life. Where possible, avoid walking on top of dry-stone walls and climbing on rocks. These might be living spaces for many different kinds of species, and you might end up disrupting them by doing so.
We should be mindful of the presence of birds and turtles when swimming in water, especially when it is their breeding season. It is a good idea to keep a certain amount of distance from nesting sites. Usually, if turtles have laid eggs on the beach, it will be marked and closed off from visitors. Avoid disrupting these areas. Any bit of movement or noise could lead to the adult birds abandoning their nests and creating a negative impact.
Besides watching out for wildlife, it is equally as important to be careful of the vegetation found around beaches. To make sure that their growth is not impaired, it is generally advised to stay away from the vegetation as much as possible. After all, there are usually many tiny species living in abundant vegetables, and movement that is excessive could bring harm to them.
