Book 6, Question 149
Why Do Kids' Small Habits Still Matter for the Ocean?
Most ocean trash and chemicals start on land, on streets, in yards, and at picnic tables. Rain and wind carry leftovers into drains and rivers, and rivers flow to the sea. So small habits add up when many people repeat them.
From the book
Page from A Million Whys Book 6
More fun facts
- Loose trash can blow or wash into lakes and rivers, and end up in the ocean.
- Plastic does not rot back into nature like an apple core or a piece of paper.
- Scientists think about 8.8 million tons of plastic end up in the ocean every year.
- When you put litter in the right bin, you help keep the ocean and its animals safe.
- No matter where you live, small changes in your daily habits can help the ocean.
Sources: NOAA, National Geographic Kids, NOAA Ocean Service
Questions kids ask
Can I help the ocean if I live far from the coast?
Yes. Trash and runoff travel through rivers to the sea, so habits anywhere matter.