Pacific Ocean my Home

By Thomas A.B, Honiara

With great dismay, I learned that the place I called home was known to others as a dumping site. How sad it is because, as ocean people, the Ocean is our home. Generations passed, and the sea has been a source of life to us because what it is for us goes beyond just a body of water. It is a part of our culture, identity, and way of life. Learning that it is being treated as another dumping ground is disrespectful and a threat to our existence. It is time to recognize that the sea is not just a resource but a vital part of our lives that deserve our utmost respect and care. We must take action to protect our ocean and educate others on the importance of preserving them for future generations.

This article highlights the likelihood of the environmental impact of the proposed Japanese nuclear-waste disposal in the Pacific Ocean. It is a contentious issue that is currently generating debate and concern around the world. While the Japanese Government argues that it is a safe and effective solution to their country’s nuclear waste problem, that strategic action is threat to marine life and the environment we depend on which unquestionably warrant our fight to save it. Hence, it is a critical global concern. The Pacific Ocean is home to diverse marine life; any harm caused to this delicate ecosystem could have severe consequences.

Additionally, there is the risk of the waste washing up on shorelines and affecting coastal communities like where I came from, many more across Solomon Islands and the wider Pacific. Remember, the Ocean has no walls to contain the trash at bay; instead, it is very volatile due to the ocean currents, and spilled-over effects are possible to other seas. Therefore, to have it dumped as now the schedule will be a double blow to us – towards the ocean ecosystem and environmentally hazards on humans. Hence, it is essential for appropriate action sooner than later.

The decision to dispose of nuclear waste in the Pacific Ocean is a grave environmental risk. For example, in the 2011 Fukushima disaster, radioactive water was released into the Pacific Ocean, causing damage to marine life and affecting fishing communities in Japan and beyond. The potential harm from nuclear waste dumping in the Pacific Ocean could similarly devastate our environment and economy. Hence, that commitment must be challenged in every way to avoid destroying the marine life, the ecosystem and the entire supply chain we heavily depend on. This is crucial, and a collaborative effort is required from all stakeholders, whether from the Government, or other institutions, including churches through SICA and SIFGA, given their prophetic voice responsibilities. SICA and SIFGA collective voices together with the Government are vital.

Collaborative efforts must be taken now to save our Ocean, the place we call home. It is a call to save humanity in this region, as the consequences will be long-term. Hence, the Pacific Ocean must be protected to keep its inhabitants and the livelihood the many people across the country and region depend on. Tuna is one of the critical sources of our revenue; hence the Ocean must be protected to ensure it does not stop unexpectedly. Let us work together to protect the Pacific Ocean and all its inhabitants for future generations.

 The Pacific Ocean covers over one-third of the Earth’s surface and is home to diverse marine life. Therefore, protecting the Pacific Ocean is crucial for the sake of the environment and the economic and social well-being of communities across the region. Collaboration among governments, businesses, and individuals is necessary to safeguard the future of this vital ecosystem. It is time for us to take action and work towards sustainable practices to protect the Pacific Ocean. By doing so, we can ensure that the Ocean and its inhabitants continue to thrive for generations. Let us unite and make a difference by protecting our home, the Pacific Ocean.

However, if our voices are too small to be heard, our partners must act on our behalf and ensure that our call to stop polluting the Pacific Sea with this nuclear waste is heard loud and clear. We must work together to protect our precious resources. The issue must be dealt with politically, socially and technically at all available platforms. Let us take action now before it is too late. We must raise awareness about this issue and encourage others to join us in our efforts to protect the Pacific Sea. We cannot afford to wait any longer. For future generations to enjoy the splendor and bounty of our oceans, we must take action right away. We can all benefit from a sustainable future only if we work together.