For millions of years, mankind has depended on the oceans of the blue planet, earth.
Only just recently have we discovered that the ocean is in danger. Concerned scientists and a portion of the general public are suggesting that we are over-harvesting many species and contaminating the oceans, placing our planet and future generations at great risk.
I have spent my entire life on the water patrolling up and down the coast, working alongside the commercial and recreational fleets with my dad. It is my opinion that it is possible to balance what we harvest from the ocean with what is required to make oceans sustainable.
At this time, there are oil rigs and ships spilling oil and polluting our oceans, killing our whales, porpoises, other fish and waterfowl that swim through it. The ocean may seem enormous but it is a vulnerable habitat. If we can’t keep this habitat alive, then how will mankind survive in the long run?
I am 18 years old and a student at Parkland Secondary School and in my opinion, we require strong regulatory controls for all other groups (transportation, oil, gas, etc.) and science-based harvest plans that ensure the survival of all marine species that rely upon this delicate habitat.
We can work together to make a difference.
Nikki Bunn
