Here is why you should care about the ocean

Healthy oceans are vital for life.
The following are tips for marine conservation in everyday life, which show that a lot can be done to improve the state of the North and Baltic Seas even far from the coasts.

Marine protection starts on land

Many pollutants in marine waters originate on land. Even activities that take place far from the coast can contribute to marine pollution, as the oceans are connected to the inland via rivers.

How do agriculture, road traffic and plastic waste contribute to marine pollution? To highlight the problem, UBA has produced a short film (in German only) about the Elbe, one of the largest tributaries of the North Sea. It provides advice on how to protect the ocean through changes to our lifestyles and habits.

06.06.2024

UBA-Erklärfilm: Meeresschutz

Together for our oceans

The North Sea and the Baltic Sea are not in a good environmental status due to excessive pressures from human activities which also impairs marine biodiversity. But a lot can be done to change that: Environmental protection on land also protects marine ecosystems. Continue reading to find out how.

Climate & environmentally conscious behaviour/reducing emissions

The oceans absorb around a third of global emissions. This leads to ocean acidification, which destroys coral reefs, weakens shellfish and destabilises marine ecosystems. Acidification affects calcifying organisms such as mussels and snails, which are at the base of the food chain. Changes in water chemistry can affect the entire ecosystem of the North Sea and Baltic Sea in the long term.What can... read more

Responsible use of chemicals and household products

Chemicals from cleaning agents, pesticides and household waste end up in rivers and ultimately in the sea.What can be done?By washing and cleaning in an environmentally friendly way, you can prevent chemicals from being released into the environment. You can find environmental tips for the household here (in German only). read more

Here is why you should care about the ocean | Umweltbundesamt