There are 1261 ‘world days’ each year, but of all these one of the most neglected is World Oceans Day, celebrated on June 8. On this day Mackellar MP, Jason Falinski has demanded community commitment to Australia’s marine environment particularly here on the Northern Beaches.
Seventy percent of the world’s oxygen comes from the ocean, and therefore while it may seem self-serving for a beaches community to demand action, an unhealthy marine environment will affect everyone.
“It is our responsibility here on the Northern Beaches to protect our beautiful beaches and waterways. From Palm Beach down to Manly the Pacific Ocean provides us with a big part of our lifestyle.” Mr Falinski said.
“I want to also use this day to reaffirm my commitment in opposing any drilling off the coast of the Northern Beaches.”
Of all metropolitan electorates, Mackellar has the highest number of beaches and has the most Surf Life Saving Clubs.
In the last two years we have increased marine parks and ecological protection zones by around 60%.
One hundred and sixty-seven million dollars is being spent to combat the amount of plastic waste entering our ocean through the Australian Recycling Investment Plan. This is in conjunction to the pre-existing ban of microbeads made by the liberal government.
“Thirteen million tonnes of plastic are estimated to enter our oceans across the world. This is why I support the Australian Recycling Investment Plan which will reduce the amount of plastics entering the ocean.”
Mr Falinski said: “We all need to think about what we can do to reduce our own use of plastics and non-recyclable materials. The less household rubbish we produce, the less likely it is to end up in our oceans.”
“World Oceans Day is one day that deserves more prominence and as a member of the Northern Beaches, I will continue to advocate for good government policy to protect our ocean environment.”
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