With a fresh drink in hand and an unobstructed view of the gentle waves stretching to the shore, it’s easy to see why Malta holds such acclaim to its remarkable seaside spots. What’s lurking beneath the blissful azure water, however, is a merciless reality which is spreading like black death.
Approximately 1 billion kilos of garbage reaches the world’s oceans every year. Contamination materialises from the little things we use and dispose of in our daily life. Now that beach season is soon upon us, be aware of the best practices you can adopt. Unknowingly, you’ll be contributing to saving marine life and the Earth you call home.
TAKE YOUR OWN GARBAGE DISPENSER
In the burning heat of a summer afternoon, you might get discouraged to make your way to the garbage disposal at the far-end of the beach and leave rubbish lying around on the sand. Take a garbage bag to the beach, stuff all the litter in it, and correctly dispose of the items in the right bins before heading home. This way you also avoid walking through the fiery sand.
JOIN A CLEAN-UP
Turn a good cause into a fun activity. Go on random trips to the beach or team up with other good-hearted individuals, and unite to help save the beaches. Want to make a start? Be part of the wave of change and sign up for The Big Għajn Tuffieħa clean-up. Take a reusable water bottle, put on sturdy shoes, smear a good amount of sun protection cream and head over to the Golden Bay on 14th April. Transform yourself into an environmental hero. Find all event details here.
OPT FOR ORGANIC SUNSCREEN
Look out for lotions which are low in unwanted nutrients that, when released in the sea, may negatively affect the ecosystem. Don’t protect yourself whilst harming sea life in return.
DON’T FEED THE FISH
The sea contains enough aliments for its marine creatures. Human food can make fish ill, possibly change the course of their migration and contaminate the waters.
THROW CIGARETTE BUTTS IN PORTABLE CONTAINERS
Cigarette butts are made of plastic materials and take up to 15 years to break down. Multiply that by the nearly 5 trillion butts thrown away each year… can you see how such small waste seems so insignificant yet wreaks major havoc to the marine life? Stop stubbing cigarettes in the sand and prevent cigarette litter with a portable ashtray to throw ashes and butts in. Carefully dispose of smoking remains when you return home.
SAY NO TO PLASTIC BOTTLES
Empty plastic bottles can easily catch a draft of wind and end up in the water. Banish plastic altogether and always make use of reusable containers – whether you’re heading to the beach or going about your daily endeavours.
TAKE ALL BEACH EQUIPMENT HOME
From chairs to umbrellas, coolers and inflatables, these beach accessories crowd our beaches. There’s no harm in using them, but make sure to take them all back with you when you’re packing for home. Dispose of any broken equipment correctly. Don’t forget about the barbecue remains. Never bury charcoal in the sand, it will eventually end up in the sea.
BECOME A SEA-FRIENDLY PET OWNER
Embrace the courtesy of picking up after your pet at the beach. This will not only keep beaches clean and safe, but also saves the oceans. Waste can release harmful bacteria in the water and become unsafe for swimming. Carry biodegradable bags everywhere you go.
Stop taking things for granted – many of your actions pose a risk to the Earth and its oceans. Encourage others to adopt a mantra of responsibility.