From its majestic soaring flight, the albatross, carried by its gigantic wings, has roamed the skies over the vast oceans for millions of years. Unfortunately, this majestic species might vanish from the surface of our Earth. Indeed, according to statistics, over 1 million seabirds are killed by ocean plastic every year. And, albatrosses are some the world’s most endangered seabirds, with 73% of species threatened with extinction.
Scientific Evidence
When the origin of death of 107 albatrosses was examined, Australian researchers found out that ocean plastic is the principal cause. Indeed, plastic waste and especially plastic bottles, disposable utensils, and balloons were among the deadliest items.
The study revealed that plastic ingestion causes up to 17.5% of albatross deaths who mostly live in the Southern hemisphere.
The danger of plastic
Unfortunately, (single-use) plastic is a real threat to this species. Indeed, just like turtles mistake plastic bags for food because to them it looks like a jellyfish; albatrosses mistake balloons and other plastics for food too. And, this is harmful to albatrosses who ingest it and die because of gut blockages.
How do we save this magnificent species?
The first thing to do is obviously ban single-use plastic from our lives. Even when organizing a birthday for instance, always try to find eco-friendly options including for decorations. Also, step by step, you can make positive changes and start carrying your reusable bottle or mug everywhere.
So, let’s join our hands to reduce and replace our plastic waste step by step and do what we can to protect this magnificent creature. Indeed, what matters is our contribution and our efforts because as soon as we start to think differently, it means we are moving towards change.
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