Awakening New Depths on World Ocean’s Day

Celebrated on June 8th globally, World Oceans Day was recently marked with a unique and impactful celebration that went beyond raising awareness to actively restoring marine ecosystems. A coral outplanting activity, alongside a beach clean-up was organised, and brought together SPGA staff from the Main Office, to contribute towards the preservation of our oceans and marine protected area.

Participants gathered on the shores of Long Island within the Ste. Anne Marine Park, to begin the clean-up activity. At sea, the Marine Operations and Research team prepared themselves for the outplanting of 200 Acropora and Pocillopora coral fragments. This hands-on approach to conservation underscores the urgent need to protect our oceans and combat the effects of climate change. On the same note the SPGA Head of Marine Research, Mr. Rodney Bonne stated that “While there are certain areas within the parks where we have noticed coral bleaching, it is not as alarming or extensive, as we have also observed that there are corals which are recovering”. The team made use of fish-traps which were previously confiscated within the Marine Park, to act as a firm substrate to which the corals would be attached and eventually grow.

On his side, CEO Cedras stated that “SPGA as an Authority continues to do its utmost to ensure continued and sustainable conservation, especially in view of threats which our oceans face such as the ongoing El Nino phenomenon which is causing coral bleaching globally. We are continuing to place great effort and emphasis on marine and terrestrial conservation”.

Looking ahead, the success of this activity and other coral outplanting activities serves as a beacon of hope for the future of our oceans. By continuing to nurture and protect coral reefs through innovative conservation practices, we can ensure that these vital ecosystems thrive for generations to come, safeguarding the health of our planet and all who depend on its blue heart.