CONSERVATION of critical ocean areas will be highlighted on MPA Day (Marine Protected Areas) on Sunday, 1 August. A consortium of South African organisations will be the first to celebrate the day dedicated marine life.
Along the South African coastline, there are 42 Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) which provide crucial safe havens for animals and plants in the ocean, and also support human communities.
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To highlight the important role MPAs play in conservation of marine biodiversity, the consortium of South African organisations have established MPA Day as a way to educate and inspire others about the proper management of these protected spaces and to draw attention to the benefits which MPAs provide.
“While many people are aware of the importance of terrestrial protected areas, such as nature reserves and game parks, few understand that the same level of protection can – and must – be afforded our ocean life as well,” said Dr Judy Mann, Conservation Strategist at SAAMBR (South African Association for Marine Biological Research).
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“These are effectively the ‘Kruger National Parks of the oceans and an investment in our own future well-being,” added Mann.
One way to celebrate MPA Day is to start a conversation using the hashtags #MPAday #Conservation #Marine #MPA #MarineProtectedArea.For more information, visit: www.marineprotectedareas.org.za or www.saambr.org.za.
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