Oceanic Impact

Happy World Rivers Day!

Rivers are essential to life on Earth and here are some fun fact:

- Rivers act as nature's arteries, delivering essential nutrients, sediment, and freshwater to coastal ecosystems.
- The combined length of all rivers on Earth spans millions of kilometers, which would be the equivalent to wrapping around the equator over 150 times!
- Rivers are also essential to human civilization by providing fresh drinking water, supporting agriculture through irrigation, powering clean hydroelectricity, serving as crucial corridors for trade and transportation, and many other functions!

What is your favorite local river to visit or explore? Do you know any other fun river facts? Let us know in the comments below! 👇

Happy World Dolphin Day! 🐬

​Dolphins are exceptionally intelligent and fast marine mammals that can exchange 80% of the air in their lungs with a single breath, and sleep with only half of their brains at a time! These social animals form tight-knit pods and rely on unique, individual signature whistles to identify and call out to one another.

Fun facts: orcas are the largest dolphins and there are freshwater dolphins living in our rivers!

​Despite their intelligence, dolphins face serious threats across the globe. These include getting accidentally entangled in commercial or discarded fishing gear, chemical, plastic and underwater noise pollution.

​You can help protect dolphins by choosing sustainably sourced seafood, reducing single-use plastics usage, supporting marine protected areas, and raise awareness about their importance to healthy ocean ecosystems!

Have you seen dolphins 🐬 in nature? Let is know in the comments below! 👇
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Happy World Beach Day!

While World Beach Day was yesterday (Sept 1), it actually kicks off World Beach Month, which makes September the perfect time to celebrate, protect, and enjoy our shorelines!

Beaches are important for coastal protection, biodiversity, and recreation. To us at Oceanic Impact, beaches connect the land with the water.

If you are heading to the water this month, here are a few of our team's favourite activities on the beach:
- Scuba Diving & Snorkelling: Exploring underwater ecosystems and observing local marine species firsthand.
- Wildlife Observation & Tracking: Appreciating coastal biodiversity and wildlife tracks along the shoreline.
- Citizen Science & Litter Cleanups: Conducting wildlife, litter, or microplastics citizen science surveys while picking up litter to help keep our beaches clean.

Healthy beaches depend on community action. Whether you are helping with a shoreline cleanup or taking a quiet moment by the water, every action helps protect these vital ecosystems for the future.

What is your favorite beach activity? Share in the comments below! 👇

Happy World Lake Day! 🌊

​Lakes sustain biodiversity, nourish communities, and connect us to our local watersheds.

Today, we are putting a spotlight on Lake Ontario!
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​Here is a quick look at why Lake Ontario is so essential:
​💧 It provides clean drinking water for over 9 million people and features more than 100 beaches for community recreation and tourism.
​🐟 Lake Ontario supports over 100 fish species alongside countless plants and animals, including snapping turtles, walleye, and pumpkinseed fish.
​📖 The name originates from the Huron-Iroquois word kanadario, which translates to "sparkling water" or "beautiful water."
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​What is your favorite way to enjoy or protect your local lake? Share in the comments below! 👇

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Happy International Youth Day!

Today, we are celebrating two incredible young leaders who have been the dynamic duo behind our education programs this summer: Gabby and Kate (kate) !

Here is a quick look at the talent powering our team:
💧 Kate (MSc, University of Toronto): Brings expertise in aquatic invasive species and science communication.
💧Gabby (MA, University of Guelph): Brings a background in lemur ecology and a deep passion for community stewardship.

Together, they have worked hard all summer developing exciting new school and corporate programs to make marine education accessible to everyone while supporting our various in-person events!

As they wrap up their time with us, please join us in thanking Gabby and Kate for their dedication, energy, and leadership. :blue_heart:

Drop a comment below to wish them the best on their next adventure! 👇

Happy Marine Protected Areas Day (Aug 1)!

Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) are essential for keeping our oceans healthy, resilient, and thriving for generations to come.

​Swipe through to learn what MPAs are, why they matter, and how Canada is working toward protecting 30% of its lands and waters by 2030.

​Here is a quick breakdown of what you need to know:
☆ Why MPAs Matter: They safeguard key habitats, allow fish stocks to replenish, build climate resilience, and support sustainable coastal industries.

☆​ The Terminology: Capitalized "MPAs" refer to specific legally designated zones. Lowercase "marine protected areas" is a broader term covering MPAs, National Wildlife Areas, National Marine Conservation Areas, and Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures (OECMs).

☆ ​The Canadian Context: In Canada, the specific designation "MPA" applies to areas protected under the Oceans Act, with each area tailored around unique conservation goals.

​Have you ever visited a marine protected area? Let us know in the comments. 👇

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As Plastic-free July is wrapping up, let's look at microplastics!

Did you know that Microplastics: 

Are tiny plastic particles that may have negative impacts on both our environment and health. 

These particles have been found in our lungs, brain and even our blood. 

Animal studies link the accumulation of microplastics to DNA and organ function damage and can cause chronic issues. 

Microplastics come from plastics products in our homes: 

They have been found in cloud rain and actually make up a lot of the dust in your own home. 

Cosmetics contain plastic materials and all non-natural clothes shed microplastics with every wash. 

Trash and waste break down and become microplastic shards. 

Most alarmingly, they have been found in produce and seafood due to chemical and packaging processes.

Here some microplastic-free alternative actions you can take to help: 

Kitchenware: Seek wooden or metallic cutlery instead of plastic whenever relevant. Avoid plastic bottles, as microplastics can breakaway and have been found in saliva.

Household Items: Make sure dust doesn't build up, and vacuum often.

Clothing: Over 60% of clothing is synthetic. Try to seek out natural materials like cotton or wool, or contemporary alternatives.

What are other ways you are reducing your plastic footprint? Let us know in the comments below! 👇