08 June 2010

Thoughts on World Oceans Day

Today, June 8, is World Oceans Day. This day is set aside each year to celebrate, appreciate, and respect our oceans.

This year, the timing of this day couldn't be more ironic, as thick, dark oil continues to gush into the waters of the Gulf of Mexico from that BP oil well gone wild.

The oil executives don't respect our oceans. They respect only profits. "Drill, baby, drill!" Even now.

I wonder what those oil executives think when they see the pictures of the oil-covered birds and fish. Do they feel any remorse? That question, of course, is merely rhetorical.

But it's not just the oil companies that are to blame. We all have a hand in the devastation of the earth's waters.

If you drive a gas-guzzling SUV, you're consuming much more gasoline than you need to, and you are supporting the oil companies more than you need to. And you're polluting the air much more than you need to, which also affects our oceans.

If you drink bottled water, you are supporting the commoditization of something that is supposed to be a natural resource. And, in doing so, you are contributing to the gross water shortages in some third world countries.

And if you carry your groceries home in plastic bags rather than paper or reusable canvas totes, you are contributing to the great trashing of the ocean, where plastic residue endangers marine life and destroys the beauty of our waterways.

Reversing the damage to our oceans isn't impossible, but it is improbable unless and until we all change our ways. Especially the corporations which cause the most damage.

Therefore, I shall not hold my breath.

I can only hope that our government suddenly gets a conscience and a backbone and imposes regulations that can truly make a difference.

Again, sadly, I shall not hold my breath.

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