The European Commission is calling all aquariums to educate visitors on the global reality of marine litter in a ‘World Aquariums against Marine Litter’ campaign.
Aimed at providing practical solutions, this campaign hopes to bring the issue of marine litter to the attention of thousands of people across the globe.
David Waines, General Manager at Bristol Aquarium said: “We are so pleased to be involved with such a brilliant initiative. Whilst we understand that marine litter cannot be eradicated over night, we can help educate and encourage our visitors to make small steps of change.
David continued: “If these small changes are replicated globally this campaign could have a hugely positive impact upon our ocean habitats and the fascinating life within them.”
Bristol Aquarium has currently turned one of its exhibition spaces into a plastic jellyfish display. The jellyfish are made from old drinks bottles and alongside interpretation and interactive sessions, highlight how visitors can help mitigate the problem of ocean-bound plastic.
Marine pollution is one of the key topics being discussed by global leaders at the #OurOcean international Conference, Malta, 5-6 October 2017.
Millions of tons of litter accumulate in the ocean and millions of marine animals die every year because of marine litter. In some areas, micro plastics already outnumber plankton by six to one. It is estimated that by 2050 our seas could contain more plastic than fish and 99% of seabirds could have ingested plastic.
This action will be officially launched by EU Commissioner for Environment, Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Karmenu Vella on Thursday 27 July at the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco, in the presence of H.S.H. Prince Albert II.
For more information about this issue and to find out how to help please visit www.ourocean2017.org
Bristol Aquarium, Anchor Road, Harbourside, Bristol BS1 5TT. Open 10am daily (everyday except Christmas Day). Call 0117 929 8929, click here to explore the website or find us on Facebook for details.