Biology students give their opinions on the Ocean Cleanup
Students debate whether the project started by Ocean Cleanup will end up more harmful than beneficial for the ocean’s environment
December 14, 2021
Our beloved oceans have been suffering through a great garbage crisis for decades now, but thankfully, there are people out there forming new ways to help. Recently, a new organization known as “The Ocean Cleanup” has been working to solve the issue of the garbage crisis and polish the seas.
Although the Ocean Cleanup seems to have good intentions, many students that are currently studying biology have some things to say about the Ocean Cleanup’s process, and how it may be doing more harm than good.
“There are definitely better methods that can be used,” says marine biology college applicant Melanie Garcia (senior), “This current one is known for ruining coral reefs in the process, making the situation worse.” she says.
The Ocean Cleanup’s design includes large nets that are dragged across the ocean’s surface in order to pick up trash. These nets do gather large amounts of garbage, which is very good for the garbage crisis, but the method does not seem to consider the reefs. In that case, it is possible that the Ocean Cleanup could be making matters worse.
“I think this method needs some work, but over time it will become more beneficial,” biology college applicant Emily Tapay (senior) says. “As of now, people can limit the amount of plastic and waste they throw out. They can use reusable bags, water bottles, containers, and more instead of the typical plastic that is eventually thrown out.”
Despite errors in the Ocean Cleanup’s process, Tapay agrees that there are some benefits as well. However, like all things in the works, the organization needs to consider all aspects of the ocean’s health, not just the garbage crisis. However, the ocean’s health does not just affect its inhabitants, it affects the lives of people all over the world.
“I’m glad the overall garbage crisis is getting more attention recently but wish that there was more action that would be taken,” AP Biology student Magdelena Solorio says. “I wish more people would take the garbage crisis more seriously and try to clean the planet they live on.”
The Ocean Cleanup may need some work, but regardless, the fight against the garbage crisis has begun. If people act fast, it is possible that these methods could grow and become more beneficial to the environment in time. So, while larger organizations like the Ocean Cleanup improve their methods, society as a whole can reduce their waste and help in the fight against the garbage crisis.
“I think this issue has gotten so far and a lot of damage has been done, but by improving our own plastic waste output, we can focus on cleaning up the oceans and making a positive impact.” Tapay says.
