Why Our Oceans Need Us: A Beginner’s Guide to Marine Protection
The ocean is more than a destination — it is our planet’s living heartbeat.
It covers over 70% of the Earth’s surface, produces more than half of the oxygen we breathe, and absorbs about 30% of the carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere. Even if we live far inland, the ocean influences our weather, our food systems, and the air around us.
In quiet ways, every day, the ocean supports our lives.
And now, it needs our care in return.
1. The Ocean Gives Us Breath and Balance
Tiny ocean plants called phytoplankton are responsible for producing between 50–70% of Earth’s oxygen — far more than the world’s forests combined. These microscopic drifters are the foundation of marine life and a major reason the air we breathe is clean and life-supporting.
The ocean also:
Regulates global temperatures by moving heat around the planet
Supports biodiversity, home to over 240,000 documented marine species (with millions likely undiscovered)
Feeds communities — seafood is the primary protein source for over 3 billion people worldwide
Creates a sense of calm, belonging, and emotional restoration
A healthy ocean supports both environmental and human well-being.
2. The Ocean Is Under Pressure
While resilient, the ocean is experiencing stress at a pace never seen before in human history.
Plastic Pollution
An estimated 8–12 million metric tons of plastic enter the ocean annually.
Once there, plastic breaks down into microplastics — tiny particles found in seawater, beaches, sea salt, fish, and even human bloodstreams.
Declines in Marine Life
Due to overfishing and habitat loss, some fish populations have dropped by 90% over the last century. Coral reefs — which support 25% of all marine species — are bleaching and dying as the water warms.
Climate Shift
The ocean absorbs most of the excess heat from global warming. This leads to:
Stronger storms and changing weather patterns
Rising sea levels
Loss of coastal ecosystems
These changes affect both marine life and human communities.
Awareness doesn’t mean despair.
Awareness is empowerment — the tide can still turn.
3. What We Do Matters
Our choices ripple outward — from kitchens to coastlines.
Small shifts in daily habits create real, measurable impact.
You do not have to do everything.
You only have to begin.
4. Ways You Can Support the Ocean (Wherever You Are)
Choose reusable bottles, bags, cups, and containers
Reduce single-use plastics when possible
Select sustainable seafood or plant-forward meals
Use reef-safe sunscreen and eco-friendly cleaning products
Support conservation organizations with time, awareness, or donations
Join local beach, river, or neighborhood cleanups
Share what you learn — ripple effects matter
Even gentle change is meaningful.
5. Flowers on the Beach Is Part of the Tide Turning
At Flowers on the Beach, we believe the ocean restores us — and we have a responsibility to restore it in return.
That’s why we donate quarterly to marine and beach-related conservation organizations, supporting efforts that protect coastlines, wildlife, and clean water.
With every purchase, you contribute to a healthier ocean.
This is a shared movement.
A shared home.
6. The Ocean and Us
The ocean reflects our own rhythms — tides rising and falling, calm returning after the storm. When we care for the ocean, we honor that connection: body, breath, and belonging.
The ocean is calling us back into balance.
Together, we are answering — one mindful choice at a time.