Take matters into your own hands
Our oceans cover 71% of the planet and supports countless ecosystems that are vital to life. Though vast, they’re incredibly delicate and deeply impacted by our daily actions. While one person alone can’t save them, every choice you make matters. Read on to see how you can make a difference.
REDUCE PLASTIC USE
Plastics are one of the oceans’ biggest threats. Consider these facts: Around 8 million pieces of plastic enter the oceans every day. By 2040, plastic entering the oceans could triple to 29 million tonnes annually.
One in 3 fish caught for humans contains plastic. All mussels tested contain microplastics. Over 1 million seabirds and 100,000 marine mammals die from plastic pollution each year.
What can you do? Cut down on single-use plastics like take-out containers, water bottles and straws. More importantly, demand plastic-free options from companies—your voice counts!
AVOID HARMFUL INGREDIENTS
Everything you use to clean yourself, your home, or your boat can end up in the ocean. Choosing eco-friendly products helps reduce harm to marine life. If fully biodegradable options aren’t available, avoid these harmful ingredients:
OXYBENZONE & OCTINOXATE – Found in sunscreens, soaps and fragrances. Harmful to coral reefs. Some regions have banned them. Opt for mineral or reef-safe alternatives (check labels).
SILICONE/SILOXANE – Common in cosmetics. Ingested by marine animals, reducing their lifespan. Harder to avoid, but research can help you find alternatives.
PHOSPHATES – Found in cleaning products and fertilisers. Cause algal blooms that deplete oxygen in water. Non-biodegradable and build up over time.
PHTHALATES – Present in cleaners and air fresheners. Disrupt reproduction and brain function in sea life. Detected in 71% of dolphins tested in a Florida study.
TRICLOSAN – Found in soaps, toothpaste and deodorants. Kills algae and plankton, disrupts ecosystems, and affects marine animal hormones.
NONYLPHENOL ETHOXYLATE (NPE) – Found in cleaners and degreasers. Non-biodegradable and harmful to fish fertility and overall marine life.
Also avoid: Wet wipes, bleach, ammonia, and aerosol cans when possible—especially when cleaning boats.
EAT SUSTAINABLE SEAFOOD
Our seafood choices impact ocean health. Over 75% of seafood stocks are fully or over-fished, threatening entire species and the food chains they support. Coastal communities also rely on fisheries for food and income.
Choose sustainable options to help the oceans and those who depend on them. Use tools like goodfish. org.au which rates seafood in Australia based on:
WILD FISHERIES: species stock, bycatch levels, habitat impacts and management.
FARMED SEAFOOD: resource use, environmental risk and impact on wild populations.
POLITICAL IMPACT
Individual actions matter, but real change also depends on political will. Support and vote for representatives who prioritise ocean conservation and environmental protection. Don’t hesitate to contact political leaders, government offices or local councils to express your concerns—your voice can help shape policies that protect our oceans and the ecosystems they sustain.
Finally, enjoy the ocean.
Swim, snorkel, sail – and bring your friends! The more we fall in love with the sea, the more we’ll fight to protect it.
PANTAENIUS INSURANCE CARES ABOUT YOU
Tailored insurance cover for your boat. Take the safe course – with the right yacht insurance. You’re not only protecting your vessel but also yourself from third-party liability.
PANTAENIUS offers bespoke insurance solutions designed around your unique needs, ensuring you always have the best protection on board.
For further details, contact Pantaenius Sail and Motor Yacht Insurance at +61 2 9936 1670 or visit www.pantaenius.com.au
Published in print August-December 2025
