Press release – The oceans represent 70% of the Earth’s surface. They are a Source of food, oxygen and allow climate regulation. Yet they are threatened by plastic pollution, climate change, overfishing and the destruction of marine habitats. On the occasion of World Oceans Day which will be celebrated on June 8, GRET looks back on initiatives carried out with its partners in Cambodia, Senegal and Madagascar, involving local populations in order to protect the marine ecosystems which play a vital role in our livelihood.
Jointly create a protected marine and terrestrial area
In Madagascar, GRET defends the importance of giving citizens real decision-making power and control over the use and preservation of the natural resources that surround and concern them. A breeding ground for humpback whales, the island of Sainte-Marie in Madagascar has been classified as a priority site to be protected by the Malagasy state. Since 2015, GRET has been supporting residents to organize themselves to preserve the coastal areas of the island. Indeed, in 2020, with the support of GRET, 30,000 residents took steps to make the island a protected marine and terrestrial area. Today, the local association involved in the process was able to define the geographical delimitation as well as the rules for sustainable management of this future protected area. Pending legal recognition of the area which is in progress, the island has been placed under temporary protection and ecological restoration measures have been taken.
Fight against plastic pollution
Every year, globally, around eight million tonnes of plastic end up in the oceans. In Senegal, GRET and its partners carried out an assessment of coastal pollution in order to assess plastic contamination and improve its recycling. This study also aimed to identify the dysfunctions of urban waste collection services and to propose actions to the population aimed at reducing the use of plastic. GRET notably noted the interest inexperiment with plastic recycling micro-factories serving residents, as close as possible to collection areas, in order to optimize recycling and reduce transport costs. This initiative inspired the “Plastic Odyssey” organization which is currently deploying this method across the country.
Improving essential services like waste management
In Cambodia, the development of the trade and tourism sectors is leading to increased pressure on the oceans. The Koh Rong archipelago, in particular, is undergoing significant development and neighboring coastal areas are being developed due to considerable investment from China. This is how GRET assessed in 2021 the impacts of the absence of waste management or wastewater treatment on populations and the environment, and fmade recommendations to improve these essential services.
In conclusion, more than ever in the face of climate change and the loss of biodiversity, GRET encourages the necessary involvement of local populations in the maintenance and restoration of marine ecosystems. This participation is fundamental for concerted and inclusive management of territories.
About Gret:
Founded in 1976, GRET is an international solidarity NGO which acts from the field to politics to improve the living conditions of the most vulnerable and promote social justice, while preserving our planet. Its actions are based on an action research approach, co-construction with communities and the creation of a vast network of partners. More information at gret.org
Press contact: Marion Disdier, +33 1 70 91 92 33, [email protected]
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