Sea of Plastics

Last year, I did a group project for an assessment which required us to do a presentation on certain issues based on the Sustainable Development Goals. My group chose SDG 14 which is Life Below Water. In this project, we focused on the issue of plastic pollution that is widely occuring in the ocean. Frankly, before doing this project, I have zero knowledge about SDG and its targets and indicators that could be offered to the environment. In order to execute the best of this presentation, we need to do a lot of research on this matter such as the types of plastics, the causes and solutions as well as the effects of plastic pollution. I was afraid that I could not contribute much to the group because of the lack of knowledge I had on this matter but I knew that I had to do anything to bring out the best outcome for me to complete this project excellently.

During the process of this project, I have learnt that our oceans are very sick because of human deeds that harm the safety of marine life. All the plastics and other harmful materials are thrown carelessly into the ocean by humans. It is truly heartbreaking to see all the innocent creatures have to face the consequences of the irresponsibility of our actions. By doing this project, it helps to raise awareness on the sea pollution that is alarmingly occuring. Personally, I think that we have done this project efficiently to raise awareness about this matter by highlighting the causes and effects of plastic pollution and the possible solutions that need to be implemented to overcome this issue and most importantly, I got the opportunity to learn the importance of saving the ocean from being polluted perpetually.

My insights after finishing this project is that it is truly vital for us to educate ourselves on issues that are currently happening in the world. Moreover, it is undeniably important for us to establish Sustainable Development Goals in the learning process to lead ourselves to a deeper understanding and help develop a better and safer environment. This is because we get to gain a deeper appreciation of the ocean and its life, not just appreciating its use to humans but also appreciating the value it holds and performing our duty to preserve it for future generations.

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ECOM (1^st year, 2^nd semester)

alyanadiah8@gmail.com

As soon as we arrived, we were told to pick our safety jackets and helmets and wait for further instructions. After that, our guides met us and gave us an overview of the rafting course as well as a safety instruction. This is when I had second thoughts about joining the water rafting. Listening to the instructions on how we needed to remain alert all the time and give extra cautions made me feel somewhat anxious as I realised that this activity could be very dangerous if we were not careful enough.

I was astounded by the natural magnificence of the surrounding scenery and the water as we set off down the river. It was incredibly an exhilarating moment when navigating the rapids of the river, and we had to work together as a team to keep the balance of our raft. As we learned about the steps taken to guarantee the river stays safe and clean for both recreational usage and the local ecosystems, SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) became evident. 

I become more mindful of how our actions affected the environment throughout the entirety of the journey which I can relate with several Sustainable Development Goals. For example, SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) which underscores the need for eco-friendly initiatives in sustainable tourism practices. By promoting conservation and responsible tourism, we contribute to the protection and preservation of these essential resources. The guides pointed out the value of protecting the natural environment and leaving no trace. They talked about measures to safeguard water quality and showed off locations where careful management had stopped erosion.

Moreover, it also occurred to me that if we think thoroughly and relate my experience with sustainability elements, I believe that through water rafting operations, the importance of economic viability is emphasised. This aligns with SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) as the water rafting operations may help local communities by using local resources while establishing sustainable methods to provide steady job and income possibilities.

In conclusion, joining water rafting is surely one of the most thrilling moment I have experienced in my life. Plus, not only I got to create a wonderful bond with my family, but I am also able to learn about the significance of preserving our natural environment and appreciate the irreplaceable kind of beauty of the nature and realised how essential it is to implement sustainable practices in our daily lives.