World Ocean Day: How the Grand Strand supports the initiative
- June 23, 2022
- 3:07 am
The voice for ocean conservation resonated on June 8, 2022 — especially on the Grand Strand.
This year’s theme was “Revitalization: Collective Action for the Ocean.” Several area entities recognized the occasion, and it’s great to shed light on their efforts. The ocean is a vital piece to tourism here, but also in a broader sense, to the quality of life.
Here are some interesting facts to share about ocean conservation.
Vital Facts About Ocean Conservation
Some are cool, and some are critical. All are important.
- 8 million metric tons of plastic flow yearly into oceans
That’s about 17.6 billion pounds, equal to 57,000 blue whales. At that rate, some experts predict ocean plastic will outweigh fish by 2050. Waste has formed several masses worldwide already.
- Oceans make up 70% of the earth’s surface
It should come as no surprise that marine animals outnumber those on land. Some 94% of Earth’s species live in oceans. And humans have explored less than 5% of the world’s oceans.
- Noise pollution is also a problem
Noise from military and shipping activity can inflict cellular damage on invertebrates. These include anemones and jellyfish. Turtles, sharks, tuna, and other sea life depend on these animals for food. Also, 36% of oil in the sea comes from runoff from drainpipes, rivers, and roads. That’s three times more than from oil spills.
Conservation Efforts on the Grand Strand
There are good things happening right here on the shore!
Surfrider Foundation Grand Strand
This powerful activist network protects global oceans by acting locally, with a staff of 50 in this chapter. Surfrider Foundation advocates in the courtroom. It also increases awareness, raises funds, and lots more. A shared passion for adventure and the ocean allows for incredible advocacy.
How can you make a difference throughout the year?
Organize an ocean cleanup effort. Volunteer where the foundation needs your help most. And remember, donations are always welcome.
Ripley Aquarium’s Penguin Conservation
The aquarium sponsors the Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds. It’s a nonprofit dedicated to halting seabird population decline. They do this work through rehabilitation and rescue. Ripley’s hosts a colony of endangered African penguins and welcomed a new baby recently.
How can you make a difference throughout the year?
Visit the penguins at Ripley’s Aquarium. Sign up for a penguin experience or donate directly to SAFCCOB.
Myrtle Beach Safari
Since 1982, the Myrtle Beach Safari private preserve has gained prestige for conservation. The Safari has played a role in saving species from extinction. This includes varieties of cheetahs, chimpanzees, gibbons, gorillas, lions, orangutans, and tigers. Tours through this preserve benefit its nonprofit division, the Rare Species Fund.
How can you make a difference throughout the year?
Schedule a safari, or donate to the Rare Species Fund.
Other Myrtle Beach Conservation Efforts
Did you know there are 30 organizations in Conway, Myrtle Beach, and North Myrtle Beach? These include Grand Strand Shell Club, Murrells Inlet 2020, and Winyah Rivers Foundation.
Stay at a Brittain Resort When You Visit Myrtle Beach
You’re in for a pleasant stay close to the fun. Brittain Resorts are in Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, and Litchfield. And they’ve brought distinctive resort experiences to vacationers for generations. Check out the Brittain Resort video gallery, choose a property, and book your escape today.