David Michel

Did you know that our ocean produces nearly half of the world's oxygen and absorbs about 30 percent of carbon emissions produced by humans? Our ocean helps sustain life, houses most of earth's biodiversity, and serves as a buffer against the impacts of climate change. But for too long, pollution, overfishing, and other exploitation of this key resource are disrupting the balance of this delicate ecosystem on which all life depends. 

We must confront industrial fisheries, which have contributed to the depletion of 90 percent of big fish populations. We must remove our need for plastic, including ghost fishing gear. These nets, lines, and ropes trap fish and marine animals indiscriminately and account for 10 percent of the more than 12 million tons of plastic that end up in the ocean each year.

As we transition from fossil fuel to renewable sources, like offshore wind, we must ensure we do not threaten populations of aquatic species or damage our seafloor while this infrastructure is developed.

In Connecticut, we can implement policy that works to protect our environment and ocean. We must act to end trawling, ban the sale of shark fins, and reduce emissions produced from the food supply chain. We can incentivize plant agriculture over animal agriculture and more to realize a greener future for everyone.  

You can learn more about World Ocean Day and how you can defend, conserve, and protect this important resource here.

I only posted this on social media, but wanted to make sure you received it by email:

Monday was the 78^th anniversary of D-Day. Like many here, my family was directly affected by WWII. From the maquis to the resistance, from escaping concentration camps to taking back plants and infrastructure, let’s honor the Allied Forces and those in the "underground circles" for fighting against tyranny and for the liberty of all, emphasizing that freedom stops where it impedes on another's freedom.

Sincerely,

David Michel
State Representative