The marine environment is made up of many, diverse habitats, including cliffs, estuaries, mangroves, lagoons, the intertidal seashore, sand dunes, coral reefs, the open ocean and the deep sea. The main threats facing the marine environment include: marine litter, climate change, overfishing, invasive species, commercial shipping and offshore mining. 

In this theme, we encourage schools to both learn about the wonders of the ocean and marine biodiversity and to take action to protect it – in particular, by reducing marine litter. 

Marine litter is any man-made material that has ended up in the marine environment after being discarded (intentionally or accidentally) either on land or at sea. It is estimated that the litter found on beaches only represents about 15% of the total marine litter, with another 15% floating in the ocean and at least 70% to be found on the sea-bed.  

Marine litter poses a serious threat to sea life. Animals like seabirds, fish, turtles and marine mammals, can become entangled in litter, and become injured, suffocate or drown. These animals may also confuse litter with food leading to starvation, illness and death. Once plastic enters the food chain in the ocean, it can have toxic effects impacting the health of larger animals, including dolphins, whales and humans. 

There are lots of ways your school can help to reduce plastic waste, and raise awareness about the importance of the ocean! We look forward to working with you on this exciting and topical theme. The Global Citizenship Marine Environment theme is proudly supported by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.