Wildlife conservation and community volunteer projects and internships worldwide

Volunteer for Marine Conservation: Safeguarding Our Oceans' Future

"The ocean's power of regeneration is remarkable - if we just offer it the chance .... We are in reach of a whole new relationship with the ocean, a wiser, more sustainable relationship. The choice lies with us."

Sir David Attenborough

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Understanding the Importance of Marine Conservation

Our oceans cover over 70% of the Earth’s surface, serving as home to an estimated 2 million species, or about 50% of all species on Earth. These marine ecosystems play a vital role in regulating the planet’s climate and supporting countless human livelihoods. Yet, they are under increasing threat. Each year, 8 million tonnes of plastic enter our oceans, an estimated 100 million sharks are killed, and climate change-induced warming leads to widespread coral bleaching. These dire statistics highlight the urgent need for marine conservation.

The Role of Marine Conservation Volunteers

Volunteering in marine conservation offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the protection and restoration of our oceans. Projects range from data collection for scientific research to direct conservation actions, such as protecting endangered marine species and restoring degraded coral reefs. As a volunteer, you can make a significant impact, helping to counteract negative trends and restore marine biodiversity.

Volunteering as a Stepping Stone Towards a Career in Marine Conservation

Marine conservation volunteering can serve as a launchpad for a rewarding career in this field. Volunteers gain hands-on experience, learning about marine ecosystems, species identification, data collection techniques, and conservation strategies. This practical knowledge is invaluable in academic and professional settings, providing a competitive edge for further studies or job applications in marine biology, oceanography, or environmental science.

Be Part of the Solution with Marine Conservation Volunteering

By joining a marine conservation volunteer project, you become part of a global network of individuals committed to safeguarding our oceans. Collaborating with experts in the field, you’ll contribute to vital conservation efforts and learn how science, policy, and local community engagement intersect in the fight to protect our marine ecosystems.

Discover our diverse range of marine conservation volunteer projects. Embark on an adventure that combines impactful action, learning, and personal growth, while contributing to the health and longevity of our planet’s vital marine life.

Our Projects with Marine Conservation

Sir David Attenborough

"The ocean's power of regeneration is remarkable - if we just offer it the chance .... We are in reach of a whole new relationship with the ocean, a wiser, more sustainable relationship. The choice lies with us."

Sir David Attenborough
Weird and wonderful marine life:

Weird and wonderful marine life:

  1. Bioluminescence: Some marine creatures, such as the anglerfish and certain species of squid, have the fascinating ability to produce their own light, known as bioluminescence, which they use to attract prey or communicate.
  2. Immortal Jellyfish: The Turritopsis dohrnii, also known as the ‘immortal jellyfish’, can revert its cells back to their earliest form and grow anew, essentially granting it immortality.
  3. Giant Blue Whale: The blue whale is the largest animal to have ever lived on Earth, measuring up to 30 meters long and weighing as much as 200 tonnes. Its heart alone is the size of a small car!
  4. Octopuses Have Three Hearts: Octopuses have three hearts; two pump blood to the gills, while the third pumps it to the rest of the body.
  5. Dolphin Sleep: Dolphins sleep with one eye open! They have the ability to let half their brain sleep while the other half remains alert. This unusual method of sleeping is known as unihemispheric slow-wave sleep.
  6. Peacock Mantis Shrimp: The peacock mantis shrimp has the fastest punch in the ocean. It can swing its claw so fast it boils the water around it and creates a shockwave that can kill prey, even if the claw misses its target.
Consuming seafood responsibly:

Consuming seafood responsibly:

  1. Sustainable Seafood Certification: Look for credible labels that guarantee sustainability. The Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) and Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) are recognised globally.
  2. Avoid Overfished Species: Avoid consuming species that are overfished or have vulnerable populations. Bluefin tuna, Atlantic cod, and swordfish are some examples.
  3. Choose Lower-Trophic Level Fish: Opt for species lower on the food chain, like mackerel, sardines, or anchovies. These reproduce quicker and in larger numbers, making them a more sustainable choice.
  4. Local and Seasonal Seafood: Try to consume local and seasonal seafood. Importing seafood contributes to carbon emissions, and consuming out-of-season seafood can disrupt the breeding cycles of marine species.
  5. Responsible Farmed Seafood: Choose farmed seafood that adheres to responsible and sustainable aquaculture practices. Rainbow trout and barramundi are often farmed sustainably.
  6. Avoid Seafood with Destructive Fishing Practices: Avoid species caught using destructive fishing methods such as bottom trawling. Shrimp/Prawns and orange roughy are often caught this way.
Taking action for marine life:

Taking action for marine life:

  1. Reduce Plastic Usage: Single-use plastics are a major threat to marine life. Minimise your plastic consumption by using reusable bags, water bottles, and straws.
  2. Sustainable Seafood Choices: Make sure to consume seafood that is sustainably sourced. Avoid overfished species and choose seafood certified by trusted bodies like the MSC.
  3. Beach Clean-ups: Participate in or organise local beach clean-ups. This can significantly reduce the amount of waste that enters the ocean.
  4. Conserve Water: By using less water, we can reduce the amount of runoff and wastewater that eventually finds its way back into the ocean.
  5. Responsible Tourism: When visiting the beach or going diving, avoid touching coral reefs or disturbing wildlife. Follow guidelines for responsible marine tourism.
  6. Raise Awareness: Educate others about the importance of marine conservation. Encourage friends, family, and community members to take action too.