Ocean conservation is most often described in terms of environmental benefits. In this video famed cartoonist Jim Toomey (Sherman's Lagoon) provides an overview of the human social and economic benefits of maintaining healthy marine environments. Students will gain a new understanding of the tremendous natural capital of our ocean ecosystems, which extends far beyond traditional dollars and cents.
This film actively engages students in thoughtful reflection about the human costs of ocean degradation and supports sustainability lessons examining marine ecosystems. One of the most significant threats to ocean health is plastic pollution. Many countries, including Canada, are exploring a ban of one time use items like drinking straws. The video could reinforce a cross-curricular action project focused on this theme. A class could examine revenue losses associated with plastic pollution impacts on fisheries, aquaculture and tourism. This information could form the basis of a student driven municipal plan to reduce plastics in their community.
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