With global warming become more and more apparent and the warmest ever day in February recorded last Sunday I’ve noticed more and more people heading for our coast earlier and earlier in the season. This is great of course but it can also take its toll on our coastline and our ocean. We need to be aware of the impact we are having and so this week’s Top Five is very much eco focused.

1: Leave No Trace: Whether you are walking the beach, swimming or playing always clean up after yourself. Why not even go a step further and “take three for the sea” which means taking three plastic debris that may have been washed up away with you when you leave. If you want to go even another step further

2: Reduce your use of plastic products at home and by the sea: Plastic eventually ends up in the ocean destroying habitat and killing thousands of marine animals each year. There are so many ways you can limit that use for example: Commit to using a reusable water bottle, store food in non-disposable containers, bring your own cloth tote or other reusable bag when shopping and recycle whenever possible. Wwhy not organise a beach clean up with family and friends in your local area.

3: Be an Eco Friendly Pet Owner: Always clean up after your dog on the beach but do so with eco friendly poo bags. They are now widely available. Also familiarise yourself with your pet food labels ensuring seafood sustainability when purchasing your pets meals.

4: Consider your carbon footprint and energy rating: Why not leave the car at home when you can (it’s not just better for the environment, it’s great for you too!) and become more aware of your energy use at home by switching to energy saving light bulbs, taking the stairs and layer up to avoid always reaching for the heating system

5: Make safe, sustainable seafood choices: With global fish populations rapidly depleting due to demand, loss of habitat and unsustainable fishing practices we should all consider choosing seafood that is sustainable to reduce the demand on over exploited species. We should all be trying to educate ourselves as much as possible on the impact we are having on our environment. The more we learn about the issues facing our oceans, the more we will want to help ensure its health.