If you’ve spent any time reading about environmental issues, you probably already know that plastic pollution is a major problem in our oceans. But what you might not know is just how severe the situation has become. Every year, millions of tons of plastic enter our oceans, damaging marine ecosystems, harming wildlife, and even making its way into the food chain. It’s a problem that can feel overwhelming, but there are organizations out there making a real difference—and one of those is Oceanworks.
At Paragon Ponds, we’re passionate about sustainability and doing our part to make the world a better place. That’s why we’re excited to partner with Oceanworks, an organization dedicated to cleaning up plastic waste from our oceans. By purchasing from us, you’re not just improving your pond—you’re also helping to support ocean cleanup efforts. A portion of each sale over a specified amount goes directly to Oceanworks, allowing them to continue their mission of removing plastic from our oceans and giving it a second life.
But before we get into what Oceanworks does and how we’re helping, let’s talk about why this issue is so urgent.
Plastic pollution in the ocean has reached staggering levels. Scientists estimate that approximately 8 million tons of plastic enter our oceans each year. That’s the equivalent of dumping a garbage truck full of plastic into the ocean every minute! This plastic doesn’t just disappear—it breaks down into smaller and smaller pieces, eventually forming what are known as microplastics. These tiny bits of plastic are nearly impossible to clean up and pose a major threat to marine life.
Plastic affects over 700 marine species, from fish to seabirds to whales. Many animals mistake plastic for food, and ingesting it can lead to fatal consequences. Even when plastic isn’t ingested, it can cause problems. Marine life gets tangled in plastic debris, which can lead to injuries or death.
It’s not just marine animals that are at risk. Humans are affected by ocean plastic pollution, too. Microplastics have been found in seafood, meaning they’re making their way into our food supply. This not only raises concerns about our health but also highlights the interconnectedness of our planet’s ecosystems.
The more we learn about plastic pollution, the clearer it becomes that this is not just a problem for the ocean—it’s a problem for all of us. That’s why it’s so important to take action now, and that’s where organizations like Oceanworks come in.
Oceanworks is dedicated to reducing ocean plastic pollution by creating a sustainable market for recycled ocean plastics. The organization partners with suppliers who collect plastic waste from coastlines, rivers, and oceans, and then turns that waste into high-quality materials that businesses can use in their products. By transforming discarded plastic into valuable raw materials, Oceanworks helps to reduce the demand for new plastic production and prevent more plastic from entering our oceans in the first place.
Oceanworks' impact goes beyond simply cleaning up plastic waste. The organization works closely with companies that want to incorporate recycled ocean plastic into their products, fostering a circular economy. In this way, Oceanworks is helping to create a closed-loop system where plastic is continually recycled and reused, rather than discarded after a single use.
This process not only helps clean up the environment but also provides economic opportunities in regions where ocean plastic collection is taking place. Many coastal communities, especially those in developing countries, are disproportionately affected by plastic pollution. By creating a demand for recycled ocean plastics, Oceanworks is helping to create jobs and support these communities in their efforts to clean up their coastlines.
Now, you might be wondering, "How can I help?" Well, it’s simple. When you make a purchase from Paragon Ponds, you're not just getting high-quality pond supplies; you’re also contributing to a cleaner planet. For every purchase over a specified amount, we donate a portion of the sale to Oceanworks. That money goes directly toward funding ocean plastic cleanup efforts, allowing Oceanworks to remove more plastic from our waters and repurpose it into sustainable materials.
By shopping with Paragon Ponds, you’re supporting more than just your pond—you’re supporting a healthier planet. It’s a win-win situation: your pond gets the care it needs, and together, we help combat plastic pollution in the oceans. It’s a small step, but every bit helps when it comes to preserving our planet for future generations.
Plastic doesn’t break down easily. In fact, most of the plastic that’s ever been produced is still in existence today, either in landfills or in our oceans. That means that if we don’t do something about the plastic already in the environment, it will continue to harm ecosystems and wildlife for generations to come. The work Oceanworks is doing is critical in not only cleaning up existing plastic waste but also creating a system that encourages recycling and reuse of materials.
As more companies and consumers join in this effort, the demand for recycled ocean plastics will grow, leading to less reliance on virgin plastics and, ultimately, a reduction in the amount of plastic waste that ends up in our oceans.
As we look to the future, it’s clear that reducing plastic pollution will require continued innovation and dedication. Organizations like Oceanworks are leading the way, but they can’t do it alone. It’s up to all of us—businesses and consumers alike—to support these efforts and make more sustainable choices.
At Paragon Ponds, we’re committed to doing our part by donating a portion of each sale to Oceanworks. By choosing to shop with us, you’re making a difference for your pond and for the planet. Together, we can help reduce the impact of plastic pollution on our oceans and create a healthier, more sustainable future.
Do you think about ways you can help reduce the amount of plastic you use? Do you always need a bag for those one or two items or can you simply tell the clerk, "Thanks, but I don't need a bag."? Are there ways to avoid purchasing plastic water bottles or beverages in plastic altogether? Let us know how you do your part in the comments below!
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