£14 Million Boost for Global Ocean Protection and Poverty Alleviation
On 26 January, Nature Minister Mary Creagh announced a significant £14 million funding initiative aimed at safeguarding marine ecosystems and alleviating poverty in vulnerable communities worldwide. This financial support will assist at least eight community-driven projects as part of the second round of the Ocean Community Empowerment and Nature (OCEAN) Grants Programme.
Focus on Vulnerable Communities
The newly allocated grants prioritise assistance for those hit hardest by the deteriorating health of oceans and the impacts of climate change. Special attention is being given to women, girls, and marginalised groups, alongside initiatives designed to conserve vital marine habitats.
Example Initiatives
Among the award recipients is the Mare Nostrum Foundation in Ecuador, which has partnered with University College London to develop innovative fishing nets featuring green LED lighting. This project aims to reduce accidental captures of marine wildlife, notably turtles and sharks, potentially decreasing such incidents by up to 73%.
Building on Previous Success
This funding announcement follows a successful first phase that protected and restored over 93,000 hectares of essential ecosystems, an area roughly equivalent to 130,000 football pitches. The progress made thus far highlights the urgency and importance of community-led initiatives in addressing climate and environmental challenges.
Minister Creagh’s Statement
We’re leading efforts to put local people across the world at the heart of solutions to conserve the ocean they depend on for food, income and protection from extreme weather.
These pioneering community-led projects will support the families hit hardest by climate change with lasting change, while helping to protect our global ocean for future generations.
Expert Insights
Jérémy Huet, conservation programme manager at the Zoological Society of London, an earlier grant recipient, emphasised the critical role of a healthy ocean for global well-being. He noted that deteriorating ocean conditions pose risks for everyone and expressed optimism about further investment in initiatives aimed at preserving marine environments.
Community-led projects are at the heart of building a better future for people and nature, and every step we take to restore our ocean’s health matters.
Additional Projects
- Eco Kolek: This project aims to implement a widespread waste recovery system in the Philippines, targeting 12,000 households and businesses, and diverting an estimated 1,100 tonnes of plastic from marine habitats.
- Resiklo Machine Shop: In the Philippines, community-led solar-powered recycling hubs will convert marine and household plastic waste into useful products, fostering local economic resilience.
- Badabon Sangho: In Bangladesh, initiatives will support women-led fishing cooperatives focused on sustainable fishing methods and habitat restoration, working closely with public agencies and advocating for marine protection.
Background
The OCEAN Grants Programme represents the UK’s commitment to addressing global challenges related to ocean health and climate change. The funding underscores the UK’s recognition of the interconnectedness of environmental conservation and the livelihoods of communities worldwide.
Source: official statements, news agencies, and public reports.
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/uk-leads-global-efforts-to-help-communities-save-the-ocean-and-beat-poverty
