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How to protect our marines

Common seals, photo by Russel Miles

Nina Jones, Protected Area Warden takes a moment during National Marine Week to explain what we can individually and collectively do to help restore and protect nature on our coasts.

This summer has already seen many record breaking moments. Sea ice in Antarctica is at a record low, whilst at the same time the Pacific Ocean is shifting into an El Niño phase - a two to seven year cycle - that will see global ocean temperatures warming yet another 0.2 degrees. In the last three weeks alone, the average global temperatures have remained above the previous hottest global temperature on record seen in mid-Aug 2016.

Just recently, there have been wildfires erupting in Greece forcing people to flee their homes, Canada is still billowing plumes of smoke choking North America with its record breaking wildfires that have devasted over 11.9 million hectares of land and Florida's southern coast hit 38.38℃, a new record which will have huge impacts on the marine life, increasing the likelihood of coral bleaching and algal blooms. It's clear that even at the global temperature we are now, we are already feeling the affects of global warming and our marine life will be feeling the full force of this.

While we continue to work hard to influence policy makers and work with councils and businesses to make the changes needed, every single one of us can do something today that will make a difference. 

Here are top 10 tips all help to reduce pollution and increase the abundance of life in our seas. 

1. Reduce plastic waste

At least 14 million tons of plastic end up in the ocean every year, and plastic makes up 80% of all marine debris found from surface waters to deep-sea sediments. If we can minimise the use of single-use plastics such as plastic bags, bottles, and food packaging and choose reusable alternatives whenever possible, we would go a long way in helping to protect our marine life. These products can easily get into the ocean and end up strangling or choking sea life whilst other animals ingest plastics which can build up and cause fatal injuries.

2. Dispose of waste properly

We shouldn’t litter anyway but it’s easy to get distracted at the beach or leave something unattended and allow the wind to sweep it up. Be extra careful when on the beach or near the sea. Make sure to use designated waste bins and don't litter, especially near coastlines or water bodies.

3.  Participate in beach cleanups

Following on from point 3, you can help clean up existing litter by picking up waste when you see it on the beach. Every little helps! Or you can join or organise beach cleanups to remove litter and debris from coastal areas. Check out our events page to join a beach clean.

4. Choose eco-friendly products

When we wash our bodies or dishes each day, toxic chemicals can get into our waste-water treatment facilities which do not break down. These chemicals make their way into our marine environments, damaging wildlife and ecosystems. You can help by using environmentally friendly and non-toxic products, like biodegradable soaps, detergents, and sunscreen, to prevent harmful chemicals from entering the water.

5. Respect marine wildlife

When engaging in water activities, keep a safe distance from marine animals and avoid touching or harassing them. Follow responsible wild watching guidelines and coastal codes. Check out our watching seals safely webpage for how to behave responsibly if you encounter a seal on the coast or in the sea.

6. Conserve water

By reducing the amount of water we use each day, we can reduce pressure on the waste-water treatment and reduce the amount of run-off into our oceans. You can start by simply changing bad habitats that you may have at home such as leaving the taps running while you brushing your teeth. You can also reduce the amount of tap water you use in the garden by collecting rainwater for example. Small changes like this will help maintain a healthy balance for both marine and terrestrial ecosystems but can also save you money.

7. Choose sustainably sourced seafood

The Good Fish Guide from the Marine Conservation Society is a great website which lists the many ways you can still eat fish while remaining sustainable. The labels are often available at supermarkets on the packet and you can even help by eating some less popular fish like Megrim, Dab and Coley which are not overfished. Choosing these options help to reduce pressure on overfished populations like Salmon which are an important food source for large sea creatures such as orca.

8. Campaign for the sea

Being a lover and defender of the sea is contagious. By helping to spread awareness about the importance of protecting marine ecosystems, you can inspire others to take action. Join groups and tell people about what you’re doing. Sign petitions and campaign for the protection of the sea with your local MP.

9. Support sustainable tourism

Choose eco-friendly and responsible tour operators and accommodations that prioritise marine conservation. If you decide to take a guided boat tour, choose operators with WISE training, the UK's national training scheme for minimising disturbance to marine wildlife.

10. Support us

Supporting us and organisations like us help to continue protecting marine ecosystems around Kent by becoming a member, donating to or volunteering with us on our marine protection projects.

With the help of our supporters and the strength of Kent residents to back us with the actions above, we can make sure that our coast thrives. Thank you for doing what you can to protect and restore nature.

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