Did you know that the ocean provides half of the Earth's oxygen? The ocean produces oxygen from plants (phytoplankton, kelp, and algal plankton) living there. In addition to the fact that it hosts the majority of earth's biodiversity, it serves as the main food source for over a billion people. Our planet is 70% covered by oceans and is considered the heart of our planet.
That is why we annually celebrate World Ocean Day every June 8th to remind people how important oceans are to our planet, humans, and other living species.
“The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it”
- Robert Swan
Citizens of planet Earth can (and should) contribute to the solution. As part of our commitment to protecting our oceans and marine life, Vital Pet Life makes mindful choices with our products, community, and the planet. We’re so proud that our Salmon Oil is Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certified, meaning it is 100% sustainable! Even our bottling facility is also MSC certified. Our fur families don’t have to compromise or choose between what’s right for them, their pets, or our planet.
"VPL Salmon Oil" by Anthony RayburnWays You Can Help Save the Oceans
1. Switch to biodegradable packaging
It could take thousands of years for plastic to degrade. Plastics can be found on the sea surface, washing up on some of the world's remotest coastlines and hidden deep below the ocean surface. Plastic does not "leak" into the ocean, it is deliberately dumped into the sea by nations and people.
Companies must be encouraged to switch to plastic-free alternatives, such as straws, plastic cutlery, coffee mugs, water bottles, plastic bags, balloons, plastic-wrapped produce, and take-out containers.
2. Minimize carbon footprint
The carbon footprint is the total amount of greenhouse gases (including carbon dioxide and methane) that are emitted as a result of our actions. As a consequence, corals may die on a global scale as the acidity of the water erodes their calcium skeletons.
Here are some simple steps you can take to reduce your carbon footprint:
- Biking or taking public transportation because cars emits a carbon footprint
- Turning the lights off when not in use
- Wear a sweater during winter instead of turning up the thermostat
3. Conserve Water
Simply reducing the amount of water we flush down the drain every day means that we will also reduce the amount of wastewater that we need to treat, and we will support properly functioning waste treatment systems. The way we conserve water in our homes helps to protect the quality of the local water.
4. Choose sustainable seafood
As a result of overfishing, loss of habitat, and unsustainable fishing practices, fish populations are rapidly decreasing. Some marine species that are in danger of extinction are still being caught illegally. As a consumer, it is important that we research organizations and companies that offer marine products that are sustainable. Don't purchase items that endanger marine life.
At Vital Pet Life, we strive to make thoughtful decisions with our products, community, and planet. When we began sourcing our first product, Salmon Oil, we wanted to ensure we weren’t depleting the ocean’s salmon supplies. As a conscientious pet wellness company, our first responsibility is to design our products responsibly.
5. Protect the beach by taking care of it
You don’t have to be an environmentalist or a lawmaker to contribute to preserving our ocean, just being responsible when you go to the beach can leave a great impact on our oceans.
Simple ways to take care of the beach:
- Always clean up after yourself
- Observe and appreciate the ocean's beauty without interfering with wildlife or destroying rocks and coral
- Encourage your family and friends to help protect the environment by joining in local beach cleanups
Not only does marine life benefit when we protect the ocean but humans also benefit. We all depend on it so let us do our part to save it. Just being a responsible citizen daily, can be a great help to sustain our waters. Start by throwing out your trash properly as well as joining online groups and forums that help in spreading awareness for our ocean's safety. These little actions add up and help save our ocean to remember that conservation and awareness can happen 365 days a year, not just on World Ocean’s Day. Let us work together and prolong our ocean’s health!
