Change is coming
We are bringing you an extra special bonus newsletter today because we felt that the news about our oceans was just too important not to share.
You may have seen the new film, Ocean with David Attenborough, which has been playing in cinemas across the country over the last few weeks and it has made a big splash, pun intended. Sir David’s exposé on the practice of bottom trawling across our seas has shocked the public and spurred the UK Government to act, but more on that later.
The film was released only weeks before the United Nations Ocean Conference in Nice, France where world leaders and conservationists have come together to set ambitious targets for protecting our marine environment. The Wildlife Trusts were there to fight for the UK’s marine habitats and wildlife.
The marine momentum is excitingly building! We are very much riding this wave and if you would like to stay up to date with what Cheshire Wildlife Trust and The Wildlife Trusts are doing to protect our oceans, then you can sign up here to receive Cheshire Wildlife Trust’s Wild Cheshire newsletter.
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Ocean with David Attenborough
Ocean by David Attenborough is a hard hitting but ultimately positive exploration of the world’s oceans and what is currently being done to both destroy and restore them. Often Sir David’s films and television shows end with a call to action on what we can do in our day-to-day lives to help restore nature. However, this film is different, it was aimed squarely at world leaders and their governments to do more to protect our marine environment. The film showcased what can happen when governments and their communities come together to save our seas.
The Ocean film has been shown in cinemas over the last few weeks and is now available on Disney+, Hulu and National Geographic. Since 8th June (World Ocean Day), non-profits and community organisations have been able to host screenings for non-commercial and non-fundraising purposes, so keep an eye out for screenings in your local area.
Good news from the UK Government
On Monday 9th June, the UK Government announced that they are launching a consultation to ban bottom trawling in 41 of our offshore Marine Protected Areas. These areas have been designated to protect the seabed. Banning this destructive activity is a great step forward BUT we must make sure the measures are implemented as soon as possible and across the whole site.
The Wildlife Trusts have created an online form where you can email Minister Emma Hardy. As Minister for Water and Flooding, she is responsible for domestic and international marine matters. Show you support this consultation and urge her to put a ban in place as soon as possible.
Cheshire Wildlife Trust Campaigner Academy
If you feel passionately about protecting our marine habitats, particularly from the proposed Mersey Tidal Barrage, then we have just the thing to help you on your journey to becoming a campaigner for nature.
Our summer campaigner academy will train you in building a movement around an issue that matters to your community. Whether you want to champion rewilding, protect Local Wildlife Sites or help struggling species, our short course will show you how to create a grassroots campaign.
Our five online workshops will cover:
- Planning a grassroots campaign
- Using petitions to rally support
- Creating an inspiring movement
- Communicating your cause
- Influencing political leaders
Sessions run on Wednesdays at 6:30pm and started on 18th June. The first session is available as a catch-up recording, so you can still sign up for the rest of the course. No prior experience or knowledge is required, just a willingness to learn and a love of nature.
Photo Credits: Drone Factor Ltd, Royal Society of Wildlife Trusts, The Wildlife Trusts, Mark Thomas, Cheshire Wildlife Trust, Carys McMillan, Rachel Bradshaw, Our Dee Estuary.
