We have produced nearly 9 billion metric tons of plastic since 1950, most of which is still in existence today, and single-use plastic has become the scourge of the ocean. The World Economic Forum reports almost 8 million tons enter our waters every year.
The above facts lead to one shocking revelation: by 2050, the sea may contain more plastic than fish.
We already see the effects first-hand as Europe’s beaches contend with deceased sperm whales poisoned by ingesting 64-pounds of plastic washed up on the shoreline. It’s not only the marine life that’s suffering. Many famous coastal destinations can no longer withstand the strain of excessive tourism.
Maya Bay – the picturesque Thai-escape brought to fame by Hollywood blockbuster ‘The Beach’ – recently announced its temporary closure due to overuse destroying the local ecology.
Bali’s infamous Kuta coastline has since fallen prey to seas of waste washing up on the shoreline. Whether for their crystal-clear waters, bleached-white sand, or mesmerizing marine life – each spot deserves protection.
Remarkably, there are still a few untouched destinations. Here are five of the top pollution free beaches in the world.
Five Pollution Free Beaches
1. AITUTAKI, THE COOK ISLANDS
If it’s a Robinson Crusoe-like getaway you seek, then head to The Cook Islands! Reams of hidden island retreats and secretive archipelagos dance among crystalline waters; while deserted shores shroud the famously-turquoise lagoon of Aitutaki.
Only here can you swim alone amongst all manner of tropical fish in what is a private, yet vast, lake. It is like stepping into an Instagram post given the vividness of the surrounds. So, it is little wonder the island features on many must-visit lists – and yet, it remains peacefully undisturbed.
2. BAZARUTO ARCHIPELAGO, MOZAMBIQUE
Africa is spoiled when it comes to removed tropical hideaways; so, if you ever dreamed of dining on a private island, look no further than Bazaruto.
Expect no trace of life aside from what you spot in the ocean, as the archipelago abounds with sand inviting you in over shallow, azure seas. Accessible only by boat, there is zero chance of anything but pristine beauty, as the population takes great care to preserve the majesty of what the earth has bestowed upon them – these are the heights of conservation to which all other communities must aim.
3. CHAMPAGNE BEACH, DOMINICA
Untamed splendor is more than just a white-sanded sanctuary. While the Caribbean is renowned for its paradisiacal islets, few have yet ventured onto the hidden jewel that is Dominica.
Referred to as ‘The Nature Island,’ it must feature among the most biodiverse regions on the planet. Slip from the verdant jungle into crystal-clear waters with little to interrupt the peace but the buzz of the vibrant backdrop.
For an otherworldly experience, discover the rocky enclave of Champagne Beach. Notorious for its effervescent waters, snorkelers drift amidst volcanic springs as jets of boiling water bubble and burst to create the largest hot spring one could possibly imagine.
4. LUCKY BAY, WESTERN AUSTRALIA
There are few places in the world you can wake up opposite the sparkling Indian Ocean neighbored only by a kangaroo. When camping on the hypnotic Lucky Bay in Cape Le Grand National Park, Western Australia, this dream becomes a reality.
The far reaches of this enormous country are not so easily accessed, making for endless stretches of untrodden sands to enjoy in solitude; or with the local wildlife on luckier days. Such a paradise takes determination to discover but is more than worth the journey when finally reached.
5. CUMBERLAND ISLAND, GEORGIA, USA
A little-explored offering in the Depths of Georgia state, the 17.5 miles of Cumberland Island’s coastline offers ample scope for exploration.
Cross marsh, mud flats, and tidal creeks, only to arrive on stretches of white sand inhabited only by wild horses, ancient sea turtles, armadillos and all manner of historical artifacts. There is a real sense of wilderness when trekking unexplored backwaters and, while there are amenities in the local area, venture just a few kilometers to camp at the end of mostly unmapped trails.
Protecting Unspoiled Lands
If you take nothing else from this article, remember one thing: our natural habitats can only withstand so much – we must each act to rid the world of plastic pollution. The EU has proposed significant steps to remove the most damaging single-use items – cotton buds, straws, and disposable cutlery – from circulation; while, several multi-nationals are coming under pressure to implement plastic controls of their own.
However, such is our day-to-day reliance on plastic, it will take more than legislation to rid the world of this toxic waste. We must each modify our behavior and ask others to do the same if we are to see a genuine shift towards more sustainable lifestyles and preserve the idyll of our wondrous planet.
Why not switch to environmentally friendly practices and help ease the strain on holiday destinations across the globe?
TOP TIPS FOR ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY TRAVEL
- Avoid renting a car and explore the local sights via buses, trains, bikes and even on foot!
- Recycle newspapers and magazines that you take or pick up there.
- Reduce the number of single-use items such as napkins and cutlery (save and reuse the ones you have!).
- Remember to act in your accommodation as you would at home – avoid requesting new towels when unnecessary, keep showers short and limit energy usage.
- Always take your litter with you and dispose of it correctly – nobody likes a litter bug!
Together, we can help ensure that places like these five beautiful destinations stay pollution free!
Learn more about Edward and Water Logic here.
