Published on 16 February 2023, the article explores the global significance of ocean conservation by highlighting its impact on the planet and human health. It discusses the alarming state of the oceans, including coral bleaching and plastic pollution, with specific examples from locations like the UK and Lagos, Nigeria. The public’s growing concern for ocean health is emphasized, as evidenced by a survey of 8,000 Brits. The role of young activists from the Ocean Heroes Network is showcased, featuring inspiring individuals like Finlay Pringle from Ullapool, Scotland, and Oluwaseyi Moejoh from Lagos, Nigeria. Chanté Davis is a 17-year-old activist and aspiring marine biologist hailing from New Orleans and now living in Spring, Texas, USA. Her love of marine life inspired her to get involved in the Ocean Heroes Network.
The efforts of these activists in organizing beach clean-ups and advocating for sustainable practices demonstrate the need for urgent action by world leaders and individuals alike.
Here are some activities undertaken by young activists from the Ocean Heroes Network to protect the planet’s oceans:
- Organizing beach clean-ups to remove plastic and waste pollution.
- Advocating for the protection of peat bogs and other important habitats.
- Running workshops and campaigns in schools and universities to raise awareness about ocean conservation.
- Encouraging individuals to make sustainable choices, such as ditching plastic straws and adopting eco-friendly alternatives.
- Writing for publications focused on ocean protection and climate activism.
- Calling for systemic changes, such as a Global Plastics Treaty, to address the entire lifecycle of plastics.
- Setting up initiatives and platforms to support and empower Black and Indigenous people of colour (BIPOC) youth in the climate movement.
- Engaging in networking, grant applications, and skill-building to strengthen their campaigns.
- Participating in global events and summits to amplify their voices and demand action from world leaders.
- Emphasizing the need for youth involvement and inclusion in decision-making processes related to environmental policies and conservation efforts.