We can all probably agree that heading to the beach is among the most beloved warm weather pursuits for people of all ages. That helps to explain why the quintessential dream vacation typically includes sand, sun and surf.
We humans have always been drawn to the sea. It has long been believed that being largely composed of water ourselves, we are subtly influenced by the tides. The sea may also offer us a feeling of perpetuity. While our best science shows we go the way of all primates in the end, the ancient sea provides a sense of the eternal. Those waves have beaten against the beach long before us and will continue to do so well after we are gone.
Blue space refers to the sea and coastline, as well as rivers, lakes, canals and waterfalls. The positive impact of spending time near natural bodies of water is called blue health. As an example of blue health, a study published in the International Journal of Hygiene and Environmental Health refers to a strong correlation between coastal life and exercise. It seems that those who live near the sea, or other bodies of water are more likely to get phsyical outdoors, taking to the water and breathing in the clean salt air.
Beach contamination hazards to know
Humans continue to graviate towards the ocean and other blue spaces, often for the sake of our health, among other reasons. However, through our own activties, we have compromised the natural integrity of those blue spaces over time, adversely effecting their healing properties. Many of the problems we have created have negative health implications for marine life and ourselves, such as:
Poor water quality
According to the National Ocean Service, beach closures or advisories caused by poor water quality often prevent the public from enjoying blue spaces. As water flows from land to coastal waters, it is often contaminated by untreated sewage from boats, pets, failing septic systems, fertilizers, and spills from hazardous substances. High levels of bacteria and other chemicals in the water can cause gastrointestinal illnesses in those who swim directly in the water.
Many of the germs that have accumulated in sand and ocean waters come from human or animal feces. If swallowed, water contaminated with these germs can make you sick and/or cause an infection if you get into the water with an open cut or wound, perhaps from a surgery or piercing.
Plastic pollution
We have also made blue spaces like the ocean less safe for living things with excessive plastic pollution. Plastic use has more than tripled since the 1970s, and only a tiny fraction is ever recycled. Plastic never fully degrades, rather it breaks down into microplastics which pose dangers to both marine life and humans who swim in the ocean, along with other means of exposure. The presence of microplastics in human blood and placentas can cause oxidative stress, cytotoxicity and negative effects on other tissues, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
Beach lovers should also be aware that plastics can leach harmful chemicals like BPA and phthalates into the water which can be absorbed by marine life and humans, increasing the risk of developmental, reproductive, neurological, and immune disorders. To add insult to injury, toxic chemicals like heavy metals and pesticides can also adhere to plastic debris for additional contamination.
Harmful algae blooms (HABs)
Also worrisome are the dense populations or “blooms” of algae that form in coastal waters. Sometimes referred to as red tides, these harmful algal blooms (HABs) are overgrowths of algae-like bacteria in the water, producing a scummy or slick “spilled paint” apperance and may include a musty or foul smell.
As noted by the National Resources Defense Council (NRDC), HABs are caused by many factors, including agricultural runoff from animal manure and chemical fertilizers, leaked waste from animal feedlots, stormwater runoff from urban and suburban areas and discharges from wastewater treatment facilities. Exposure to HABs can be toxic, and even fatal, to marine animals and humans. People can get sick by swimming directly in the water and by eating contaminated shellfish.
Marine debris
Marine debris one of the most widespread pollution problems facing the world’s oceans and waterways. Huge amounts of consumer plastics, metals, rubber, paper, textiles, derelict fishing gear, vessels, and other lost or discarded items enter the marine environment every day, damaging habitats, harming wildlife and making it unsafe for beachgoers to walk along the shoreline and swim in the water.
So, how can you enjoy a sunny day at the shore safely given these potential beach and ocean hazards? These tips can help:
- Before you head out, check online to find out if the swim area is currently monitored, is under advisory, or has been closed for health or safety reasons. This is especially important after a heavy rain.
- Scout the vicinity well before you decide to set up camp. Look for signs of litter, debris or discarded plastic, especially if you see it washing into shore. Indications of garbage in the area can be a red flag when it comes to water safely for swimming and playing.
- Steer clear of swimming areas with pipes draining in or near the water, as they collect human and animal feces which get deposited in the area after heavy rains.
- Avoid swimming or playing near water that appears cloudy, discolored, or has an odor. Cloudy water can be an indicator of germs, and discolored or bad smelling water could mean there is a harmful algal bloom (HAB) in the water.
- If your body’s ability to fight germs is already affected by other health problems or medicines, check with your healthcare provider before swimming in oceans, lakes, rivers, and other natural bodies of water.
Again, our oceans and beaches should be healthy habitats for marine life and healing spaces for humans. To help ensure that, we need to minimize industrial systems and consumer patterns that pollute our blue spaces. As it relates to your life and planned summer activities, you can see the importance of seeking out safe and healthy beach scenarios. Once you know what to watch for, you can feel better about beach fun for yourself and those you love.
Featured Products
