Marine Conservation Society talk

3 November 2015

Ed Santry - Marine Conservation Society

At our last meeting we had a presentation from Ed Santry (the South East Coordinator of the Marine Conservation Society). Ed talked about different species of wildlife and plants, biodiversity, fisheries and pollution. The seabed and marine life are threatened by things like micro plastics and various items discarded from waste and fishing vessels. Some items such as: cotton buds, fishing line, wet wipes, nappies, balloons and plastic bottle caps were prevalent in polluted areas and a very big problem to wildlife. The Society works as a charity and relies on a lot of support from volunteers. Some recent campaigns are involving volunteers in promoting their message by lessons in schools, underwater photography and whatever volunteers can offer to help. There will be announcements in January 2016 on 21 sites as possible Marine conservation zones. (We have some locally in IOW and Brighton). Some campaigns recently include:

  • Education on the impact of sky lanterns and balloon releases. -  MCS are asking for councils to have voluntary bans in place on council land. Portsmouth is one of those who have agreed – very positive!
  • ‘Hang onto your tackle’ – working with fishermen to counter the nets and tackle. (such as specially adapted bins in locations)
  • Scrub it out – getting rid of micro plastics in mainly cosmetics (that harm small microorganisms). Apparently there is an App to distinguish culprits by their product barcode!
  • Beachwatch – organised beach clean events. In this area we made links that we intend to work on Whale Island and provide data to the Marine Conservation Society.

Ed encouraged people to join up / membership is from £3.50 monthly and you receive quarterly magazine, tote bag, notice of events etc. (80% goes to conservation)


Other things that were mentioned included  a sustainable seafood campaign for local councils, Plastic bags in Scotland and Wales have shown some significant results in less waste in that area (and hopefully now across the whole of UK). Working with fishermen to develop good relations.
Please check out the website for more information www.mcsuk.org At the end of the talk Ed gave out info on sustainable fish and the society and answered questions from the group.






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