Spotlight: What You Need to Know about the Unsung Heroes of Ocean Conservation
Over 70 percent of the Earth's surface is covered by oceans. This vast expanse of water is crucial in regulating the planet's climate, supporting diverse ecosystems, and sustaining life on our planet. Unfortunately, human activity is destroying this delicate balance.
From microplastic pollution to global warming, the problem is of such an enormous variety and scale it’s tempting to think that we’re unable to make a difference as individuals. That we should leave it to the large international organizations like Greenpeace and the World Wildlife Fund that capture much of the limelight. However, there are a myriad of lesser-known organizations and individuals who tirelessly champion the cause of protecting our oceans. Often, it's the quiet dedication of these unsung heroes that drives real change. Here’s more information about them:
The Ocean Cleanup
Founder Boyan Slat was just 16 when he started experimenting with ways to remove plastic from the ocean as part of a school project. His solution involved using the ocean's own currents to filter out plastic particles and objects accumulating in five large oceanic gyres. After his TEDtalk went viral, he could leave school and create The Ocean Cleanup. The organization now employs over 100 engineers, scientists, and others developing advanced technologies to rid the world's oceans of plastic.
The Indonesia Plastic Bag Diet Movement
Founder director Tiza Mafira is a lawyer who has campaigned to ban single-use plastic bags in her country, the second-largest contributor to marine plastic pollution after China. Her organization is responsible for a 55 percent reduction in plastic shopping bags after it advocated for retailers to stop providing them gratis. Mafira is also trying to establish zero-waste cities in Indonesia, where 100 percent of waste either biodegrades or is recycled back into production.
Project Seahorse
Director and co-founder Dr. Amanda Vincent pioneered seahorse research. She was the first to study them in the wild and initiate a dedicated seahorse conservation project. Project Seahorse is dedicated to the conservation of seahorses and their habitats. Through research, education, and community engagement, they strive to safeguard these charismatic creatures and the ecosystems they inhabit. They are active on six continents as Project Seahorse and host the IUCN SSC Seahorse, Pipefish, and Seadragon Specialist Group.
Blue Ventures
Operating in coastal communities around the world, Blue Ventures has a holistic approach to marine conservation that places small-scale fisher livelihoods and food security at the center. By integrating sustainable fisheries management with community development initiatives, they empower local stakeholders to become stewards of their marine resources, rebuild fisheries, and restore ocean life. Their initiatives include everything from replanting mangrove ecosystems in Madagascar to fighting destructive bottom trawling practices in Senegal.
The Marine Megafauna Foundation (MMF)
Founder Dr. Andrea Marshall was the first person to obtain a PhD on manta rays. She was featured in two BBC Natural World documentaries: Andrea: Queen of Mantas and the award-winning trilogy Sharks. She founded MMF in Mozambique in 2003, the country from which she works to promote global manta ray conservation. Currently, the foundation also has projects in Indonesia and Florida. It is at the forefront of research and conservation efforts to protect threatened species like manta rays, whale sharks, and sea turtles.
Local Beach Clean-up Groups
Beach clean-ups are a way for ordinary people to get involved in ocean conservation. From small coastal towns to bustling cities, countless grassroots organizations organize regular beach clean-ups to combat marine debris. These passionate individuals often work outside the limelight, removing tons of trash from beaches and shorelines and raising awareness about the importance of waste reduction.
A young lawyer in Mumbai, Afroz Shah is associated with the most extensive beach cleanup ever. He and an elderly neighbor started by picking up decomposing waste washed up on Versova beach themselves. Shah could have tried the legal route as a lawyer but knew it would take too long. His and his volunteers' efforts have resulted in turtles laying their eggs on the beach for the first time in decades.
Ocean Educators and Outreach Programs
Educators and outreach focused on ocean conservation are crucial in inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards. Interactive workshops, school programs, and community events foster an appreciation for the oceans. They also empower individuals to take action to protect our seas.
These heroes of ocean conservation may not make headlines, but their efforts are a beacon of hope for the future of our oceans. By recognizing and supporting their work, we can all play a part in safeguarding these precious ecosystems for future generations.