As we near the end of January 2025, it’s the perfect opportunity to reflect on our resolutions. An opportunity to evaluate if you have set meaningful, ocean-friendly resolutions that benefit not only you but also our beautiful blue planet. Whether you're a seasoned eco-advocate or just starting on your sustainability journey, these resolutions can inspire positive change for the oceans we all depend on. Here are some actionable, international, and impactful ideas for you to adopt this year.
1. Commit to a Regular Cleanup
Make a pledge to clean up your local environment at least once a month. If you live near the coast, beach cleanups are a wonderful way to connect with nature and involve friends and family. Inland? No problem! Cleaning parks, riversides, or urban spaces helps reduce plastic pollution that often ends up in our oceans. To get started, consider partnering with organisations like the I Am Water Foundation, which educates and empowers communities to protect water sources and oceans. Their efforts demonstrate how interconnected inland and ocean health truly are.
2. Reduce Single-Use Plastics
Take small but impactful steps to cut down on single-use plastics in your daily life. Carry a reusable water bottle, bring cloth bags to the grocery store, and switch to silicone or beeswax wraps instead of plastic cling film. Need inspiration? AGULHAS’ modular and sustainable snorkels and fins are great examples of how innovation can reduce waste while enhancing your adventures.
3. Support Local and Seasonal Eating
Eating with the seasons isn’t just a delicious way to try new recipes—it also helps reduce the carbon footprint of transporting food from far-off places. This year, explore your local farmer’s market or research seasonal produce charts in your area. Supporting sustainable fisheries and avoiding overfished species are additional ways to protect marine ecosystems.
4. Choose Reef-Safe Sunscreen
If you’re an ocean lover, one of the easiest ways to help protect marine life is by switching to reef-safe sunscreen. Traditional sunscreens often contain chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which harm coral reefs. Before your next dive or beach day, check out AGULHAS’ Guide to Buying Reef-Safe Sunscreen for eco-friendly recommendations.
5. Make Sustainable Fashion Choices
Fast fashion is a major contributor to ocean pollution, with microfibres from synthetic fabrics making their way into waterways. This year, commit to buying fewer, higher-quality items or supporting brands that prioritise sustainable and ethical practices. Better yet, shop second-hand or swap clothes with friends to keep your wardrobe fresh without harming the environment.
6. Educate Yourself and Others
Take time to learn more about ocean conservation and share what you’ve learned with others. Watch documentaries, read books, or follow organisations like the I Am Water Foundation and AGULHAS for inspiring stories and tips. Education creates ripple effects, empowering others to take action.
7. Offset Your Carbon Footprint
Travel is a wonderful way to connect with the ocean, but it can also contribute to carbon emissions. This year, consider offsetting your carbon footprint by supporting reforestation projects or renewable energy initiatives. Look for travel companies committed to sustainability and choose destinations that prioritise eco-tourism.
8. Join the Conversation
Be an active voice in the ocean conservation community. Follow AGULHAS on social media and subscribe to our newsletter for monthly updates, tips, and inspiring stories. Engage with like-minded individuals and share your own journey to inspire others to adopt ocean-friendly habits.
Let’s Make 2025 the Year of the Ocean Every small action adds up to a big impact. By setting these ocean-friendly resolutions, you’re contributing to a healthier planet for generations to come. Have a resolution idea we didn’t mention? We’d love to hear from you! Email us or comment on our social media channels for a chance to be featured.
Here’s to a fulfilling and ocean-friendly 2025!