It is that time of year again, where the much awaited event known as Shark Week, returns to TV as an effort to provide viewers with information on the magnificent ocean beasts. This occasion is put on by Discovery Channel every year, promoting species awareness while proving the importance of sharks within our ecosystem, and how to prevent their extinction. Shark Week 2016 begins on Discovery Channel Sunday, June 26.

Many people spend time worrying about coming in contact with sharks instead of enjoying their time on the beach, while they should be concerned about the crucial role they play in our oceans, allowing us humans to enjoy time on the beach.

Sharks may be natural predators, but so are humans. Humans, like sharks, are at the top of their food chain and play a massive role in the regulation of population and the overall flow of nature. The Discovery Channel states that there are a total of 465 shark species that are considered endangered, some species are far more affected than others. Our oceans are facing the potential loss of 11 species that are currently labeled as critically endangered.

People across the world were devastated over the death of the gorilla and alligator who killed those innocent young boys, deeming the animals as innocent themselves; however, many people are not so quick to refute the killing of sharks that have attacked humans. In addition to the hunting of sharks after a human attack, hundreds and thousands of sharks are hunted each year for their fins, which are brutally chopped off while the shark is released, barely alive and left for dead.

Sharks need help from humans in order to survive, and there are plenty of ways that you can be a part of the effort. Discovery.com provides an abundance of resources for Shark Week viewers to follow along with the TV showing schedule, learn fun facts about different species, how to help, and much more. Listed below are a few ways Discovery suggests that you help save sharks, and keep our oceans intact.

1. Do not eat shark

This is a pretty obvious tip.

2. eat sustainable fish

This is a way to reduce the chance of sharks being trapped in fishing gear.

3. Don’t fly with particular airlines

Some of the most popular airlines are used to transport shark fins and other products.

4. Adopt a shark

You can pay to help an organization working to save our oceans by sponsoring a shark of your own.

5. Become a ‘citizen scientist’

This is a way to help scientists retrieve information with the help of input from you. You can help by reporting a shark sighting or encounter and the location in which it occurred.

6. Swim with sharks

This is a way to become familiar with the animals and encourage others to see them as a valuable part of our ecosystem.

7. Tweet about Sharks

Watch Shark Week and use to hashtag #SharkWeek to discuss the importance of sharks with friends while building awareness.

I encourage everyone to visit the Discovery Channel’s site and inform yourself on these exceptional animals, as well as other ways you can help sharks and our planet.