Local event hopes to prevent plastic-takeover in the ocean

Experts predict that there will be more plastic than fish in the ocean by the year 2050 if humans continue to live the way we live now.

This issue inspired Zero Waste Forest City to host an event to educate the public about how much waste society is actually producing, and to point out the consequences of ignoring the issue.

Zero Waste community member Shannon Hawke says when trash is dumped into the ocean, it ultimately comes back to us.

“[The plastic that ends up in the ocean] affects not just marine life, it also affects our health. When we are consuming seafood for instance, a lot of the plastics that end up in the ocean breaks down smaller and smaller, eventually getting into the fish because they consume it thinking it is food. And then eventually it goes up into bigger and bigger fish, and then we consume it as well. This [issue has a] really big impact on our personal health.”

Hawke shares some easy lifestyle changes that will impact the world greatly.

“One of the things that people can do is to start reusing reusable items. So instead of using that disposable coffee cup, bring your own coffee mug. Or start reusing plastic straws, [and] bringing your own grocery bags. All these things that are normally a disposable item, replace it with something that’s reusable.”

Those interested in participating can head over to Innovation works on Saturday June 2nd at 10:00am to attend “The 2050 Ocean.”