IT’S a long weekend once again because Monday, Labor Day, is a holiday. This means many will be heading to the beach to cool off and enjoy the best of what summer has to offer. LaBoracay, anyone? 

But while we get lost in the beauty of the sea, the sand and everything in between, we must remember that our enjoyment should not be a reason to disrespect nature. 

It takes no herculean efforts to help protect the environment and preserve its beauty. We just need some awareness and discipline. 

This is the reason why millennial environmental advocate Kristine Melvie Bunda relentlessly campaigns for environmental preservation. One of her primary goals is to educate people about the basic things they could do to mitigate the country’s worsening environmental concerns. 

If you’re planning to head off to the beach this Labor Day weekend, Bunda has some tips on how you could enjoy your getaway without harming mother nature. 

1. Bring your own water tumbler instead of using disposable cups. It helps to cut down on plastic waste. 

Because summer time is party time, drinks aren’t the only thing that gets spilled all over. Plastic cups also litter the beach after parties. Everybody should be reminded that one less plastic container thrown away will already be a big help to the environment. 

2. Use reef-safe sunblock to protect your skin without hurting our marine friends. Look for products that are oxybenzone and octinoxate-free. 

Yes, there are sun-screen products that could cause harm to marine life. It’s better to bask in the sun while using items that are safe for everyone, including our colorful marine friends. 

3. Make sure you properly dispose of your trash, including straws, coffee cups, cigarette butts, and food packaging. Don’t leave them lying around! 

Be disciplined and make it a habit to throw your trash in the proper places. Don’t wait for somebody else to pick up after you. 

4. Keep our coral reefs safe by being careful not to step on them. They’re fragile ecosystems that need our protection.

Corals aren’t just found in dive-worthy depths, they’re in the shallows as well. When you see groups of corals peeping from the clear waters, appreciate their beauty and leave them as they are. 

5. Sea stars or starfishes are adorable, but please don’t touch them! They’re sensitive creatures, and taking them out of water can harm or even kill them.

Gone are the days when people could take a starfish out of the sea, dry it in the sand and take it home as a souvenir. We know better now. Let’s leave them in the water where they belong. 

6. If you see a stranded marine animal on the beach, don’t panic! Keep your distance and call the proper authorities. They’ll know how to help. 

A number of commercial beaches from time to time see marine animals like turtles, dolphins or whales stranded on their shorelines. Be responsible enough not to play with these animals and call up authorities who know what to do with them.