Aloha Ocean Lovers
The most important aspect that has come from this experience in the South Atlantic Gyre is “Family”. We are a part of a family that lives here on the blue water planet, a planet like no other in the universe, just as there is no one else exactly like you. This unique hydrological system is our bio dome traveling thru the dark space. The Oceans are the womb of our planet, where all living creatures have evolved from or are nourished by. The rivers are the arteries that carry nutrients and fresh water back to the ocean. Water connects all living beings on the planet. We all have one thing in common; we need water to live, CLEAN WATER.
“Many Rivers, One Ocean
Many People, One Planet
Water, Connects Us All”
Richard Sundance Owen
The bad news is that the South Atlantic Gyre has Plastic Pollution accumulating in it. The Good News is it’s 100 percent preventable. Gyre Cleanup begins on the Islands, on the beaches and in your neighborhood. Each of us can take responsibility; simply put, if you see plastic pick it up. It’s everywhere !!! Make it a family outing or a game; make it fun, make it a priority. If we prevent more from going in, we have solved over 1/2 the problem. After all, Plastic Pollution is every-one’s concern; it is a vehicle to transport chemicals into our food chain. Even if you don’t eat from the ocean, most likely you know someone who does. The world’s population depends on the oceans for food, jobs, recreation and most importantly oxygen. Oceans produce over 70% of Earth’s Oxygen, and everyone NEEDS TO BREATHE!
Dr. Marcus Eriksen, Anna Cummins and Stiv Wilson, all of the 5 Gyres Institute, welcomed the team aboard the Sea Dragon for our 31 day expedition. It was an honor to be included on such a historical research voyage, an experience that changed my life, for the better. We where expecting to find Plastic Pollution and we did, although not in the amounts that the North Pacific has. There are reasons for the lesser density, the population of the Pacific Rim topping the list. This is the forth of five major Gyres that has gone under recent study. The 5 Gyres Institute will be researching the South Pacific Gyre in early 2011. This is the last remaining Gyre to be studied. Bottom Line, our water planet, our home is filling with our own plastic and chemical waste. We are seeing and soon will start feeling the effects of our (as a species) neglectful ways.
Post voyage reception and sharing. Dr. Wallace J. Nicolas and I spoke just a few days ago in Santa Cruz about Plastic Pollution on how it affects Sea Turtles, marine life and human health. At times we could feel the audience in shock as the facts presented where not always pleasant to hear and accept. The questions always seem to be the same where ever we speak: “How did it get this bad? Where does it all come from? Who is doing something about it?” Speak up for change, our kids deserve it.
It’s simple, but not easy. If we are the problem, then we can become the solution: knowing the facts, sharing the information with others and taking action in our daily lives, at school, business and home. Each person needs to decide for him or her self, “How green can I be?”, “Where can I reduce my carbon footprint ? “, ” What Can I Do?” It’s about progress, not perfection. The stark facts are that at this time and place, we find ourselves in consumption and pollution overdrive, damaging the remaining resources. It took many years to get here, it will take many years to repair the damage. There is no more time to wait and see! Let’s take care of our mother, Earth. When would you like to get started ?
The vision and direction for our collective future will be decided by those who show up. Environmental Cleanup Coalition invites all those who feel drawn to creating a healthy planet to explore the possibilities with us today. Our oceans need us ! We need you, sign up on our site. Your next two opportunities to become directly involved will be to join our weekly tele-conference January 4th 10 am PST or in Santa Cruz, January 5th, call or email for details.
My deepest gratitude for all those who have supported us this past year. We launch into 2011 with 2020 vision, for seven generations to come.
Rich Sundance Owen
PS. Be sure to check our monthly calender for events and updates, new items are being added often.