Focusing In (on the seas)

None of us need convincing that this beautiful, blue planet's majority surface element - which also happens to make up 65% of our bodies - is magic, right? We all know that water is key to life. We also know that, on the contrary, pollution in its many forms is a prevalent problem for humans and wildlife, devastating environments around the globe. So it seems like a no-brainer that the health of the world's waterways and seas are an urgent matter as they're essential to the health of all life on Earth. Unfortunately, we are collectively (from individuals to industries and everyone in the process) polluting our global waters to the extent that we're doing significant damage.

Effortlessly floating in the waters of the Mediterranean Sea off the coast of Gozo, Malta.

Luckily, there's plenty that all of us can do to immediately lessen our aqua impact and help combat current, water-related issues if we just take some time to focus in. Many of the choices we make on a daily basis, some obvious and some not, affect the H2O all around us. From the fertilizer we put on our garden, to our dinner decision, to the leaders we vote for - the actions we take matter, for better or worse.

One may think, "isn't there a governmental body or an organization that oversees the seas?'. The short answer is yes, but that means at least two things for all of us individuals. 1) We must get involved and vote in order to make a difference in how these bodies of power are run, whose running them, how transparent they are, and how well they're working to protect sea life and human's rights to access clean water. 2) There's always more to be done. On a personal level, many of us are provided the privilege of knowledge and choice, which is powerful and can be extremely useful. We can take action ourselves and we can educate others; leading by example to help spread an ECO-MAD movement of ocean-friendly, sustainable, considerate, conscious decision-making.

**Put It Into Practice**

Things we can (and should) all do to help preserve waterways and seas:

• Conserve water - conserve, conserve, conserve!
• Reduce your waste - stop trash at the source, consume less, be mindful of what you purchase and how it's packaged. Here's some food for thought on overconsumption.
• Don't purchase anything that directly imposes upon marine wildlife.
• Stop sucking - refuse plastic straws, use paper if needed, and/or get a reusable one! 
• Ditch other single-use plastics - replace with reusable options.
• Beach cleanups- collect trash before it gets to the water, or while in the water if need be.
• Be aware of chemicals - use as little as possible (fertilizers, detergents, cleaners, etc.).
• Use reef-safe sunscreen.
• Know about the seafood you eat - some can be better for the environment than others and limiting your intake may even be better for you! 
• Be extra conscientious when on a boat - of wild animals, littering, cleaning products, maintenance, etc.
• Don't go on cruises. Period.
• Research which corporations/companies are the worst water polluters and avoid them and/or write to them about your concerns.
• Vote - use this political tool to ensure those in power are aligned with your environmental beliefs, or run for office yourself! 
• Educate - Always take time to do your own research and then lead by example and share knowledge with others. Maybe even consider hosting/organizing a workshop in your community or a documentary screening.