Sea Week 2018
Posted by Anthea (info@) Madill on
Illustraitions by Nic Hetherington
“Everything is connected – if we don’t understand how our actions & behaviours can affect the oceans then we risk hurting our very survival long-term”
(Regional Coordinator for Seaweek & Youth Engagement Officer for ECAN)
Jocelyn Papprill wants you to care about the sea. It isn’t just because it’s her job, it is for the simple reason that she is deeply passionate about preserving and protecting the amazing biodiversity that exist in the seas around New Zealand. Sadly though, there are now a host of factors that threaten the delicate marine balance that exists which include mining, chemical pollution, sediment input, habitat loss, invasive species, harmful algal blooms and climate change.
Between 3rd – 11th March the NZ Association for Environmental Education (NZAEE) celebrates Seaweek, an annual national event rejoicing all things marine. It exists to excite and inspire all New Zealanders to renew their connections with the sea. “The oceans pay a huge part in maintaining the health of our planet and yet so few of us take time to learn more about them and appreciate their significance for us” says Jocelyn.
The theme for Seaweek this year is Toiora te Moana – Toiora te Tangata / Healthy Seas - Healthy People. It’s a summertime opportunity to explore the wonders of our marine environments and shorelines with family and friends. Getting involved is easy, accessible and fun as there are a huge range of events on offer including bike rides, beach clean-ups, art workshops, competitions, movies, seminars and even boat cruises. For more details, click the link below and find something that tickles your tentacles!
In addition to getting out there and getting engaged with you community over Seaweek, Jocelyn urges us to all do two incredibly simple things to help keep our oceans clean, green and full of life. So, tell your nearest and dearest and point them in the direction of The Rubbish Whisperer website to find some ocean friendly replacements for damaging plastics.
- Ditch the use of single use plastics
- Never pour chemicals down stormwater drains
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