Happy World Ocean Day!
Ella Garrud
Coastal Communities Officer
World Ocean Day is on June 8th every year and is the day we celebrate how vital the Ocean is to the health of our planet. The Ocean plays a pivotal role in regulating our climate – around 98% of the heat from the sun is absorbed by the Ocean. 50% of the oxygen we breathe comes from the Ocean, released by phytoplankton (tiny plants) as they photosynthesise – this means every second breath we breathe is thanks to the Ocean. It creates food for us, and it is a key part of the Earth’s water cycle. The Ocean provides us with huge health and wellbeing benefits – studies show that spending time in and by the Ocean improves our physical and mental health. The Ocean is also full of fascinating life, and you don’t have to travel far to find it. Right here in Sussex you can find Dolphins, Sharks, Cuttlefish, Seahorses, Seals, Anemones, Kelp and much more.
It is therefore critically important that we all do our part to protect this incredible environment.
The marine team here at Sussex Wildlife Trust are working hard to do just that
We run multiple citizen science projects, working with volunteers to collect data which contributes to the conservation of our local marine and coastal ecosystems. Learn how to get involved with Shoresearch, Seasearch and the Sussex Kelp Recording Scheme – dedicated volunteers are vital to carrying out this important work.
We are part of innovative partnership projects like the Sussex Kelp Recovery Project, a pioneering rewilding project which aims to recover the once dense kelp forests of Sussex.
We work with the marine industry and decision-makers to ensure marine developments avoid environmental damage and make a positive contribution a healthy marine environment. We advocate for Marine Protected Areas, like the recently designated Highly Protected Marine Area (HMPA) Dolphin Head.
We also work with local communities to raise awareness of the amazing Sussex marine environment and encourage people to take direct action to protect nature.
What can you do?
- Join us on Shoresearch, Seasearch and the Sussex Kelp Recording Scheme
- Carry out a beach clean every time you go to the beach
- Make sustainable swaps in your day-to-day life
- Cycle, walk and take public transport instead of driving
- Record Mermaid’s Purses (Shark, Skate and Ray eggcases) with the Shark Trust
- Spread the word about the amazing marine life of Sussex
Learn more about Sussex marine life with our interactive map!
