How to protect our marine areas

This past year has seen average sea surface temperature (SST) in latitudes over 60°S–60°N, break new records for every month respectively. This means that for twelfth months in a row the warmest ever data has been recorded for the respective month of the year. (EU's Copernicus Climate Service).

Of course, this super-heating of the oceans have hit marine life hard. Across the globe a new wave of coral bleaching has been, impacting thousands of species with coral reefs supporting more than a quarter of all marine life. Species as far as the Antarctic have been struggling with temperature rise and there have been examples of the sea-ice collapsing before emperor chicks have properly fledged causing mass drowning events.

In the UK, rising sea temperatures have been impacting some marine wildlife also with some species having vanished completely from coastal locations. Around the Kent coast the loss of our kelp forests and the increase in invasive non-native seaweeds such as wireweed may be linked to climate change.  

However, it is not just marine life that will be impacted by rising sea temperatures. Healthy oceans are essential for life on Earth. Oceans generate more than half the oxygen we breathe, they regulate climate change, they provide at least 20% of the animal protein we eat and provide millions of people with a livelihood.  

Ocean conservation is also key to overcoming the current climate crisis thanks to our oceans ability to sequester huge amounts of carbon dioxide. They also store solar radiation, distribute heat to slow global warming, and drive global weather systems.  

However, without significant advances in marine conservation, these ecosystem services are at risk of disappearing.  

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. 

References

• IUCN – Marine Plastic Pollution
• WISE training
• Marine Conservation Society – Good Fish Guide
• Record-shattering heat signals a global climate change tipping point
• June Extremes Suggest Parts of the Climate System Are Reaching Tipping Points
• Faster than forecast, climate impacts trigger tipping points in the Earth system