To mark World Marine Protected Areas (MPA) Day on August 1st, the Nonsuch Expeditions, through its OurOcean campaign, the Bermuda National Trust and Bermuda Environmental Sustainability Taskforce (BEST), are proud to launch a joint campaign encouraging Bermuda residents to write to their elected representatives in support of stronger ocean protection.
The campaign comes as Government prepares to make important decisions on legislation that would establish Bermuda's long-awaited Marine Protected Area (MPA) network following years of scientific research and public consultation. With a PLP leadership transition expected in October, Bermuda will soon be entering a new political chapter. The organisations say now is a timely opportunity for residents to share their views with their elected representatives and help ensure ocean protection remains a national priority.
Through a dedicated online platform, residents can send a personalised message to their MP in just a few minutes:
https://bermuda.eaction.online/Write-Your-MP-to-protect-Our-Ocean
Marine Protected Areas are recognised globally as one of the most effective tools for restoring marine ecosystems, rebuilding fish populations and strengthening resilience to climate change. Bermuda has committed to fully protecting 20% of its ocean, with the proposed network focusing on the island's most important and vulnerable marine habitats while supporting the sustainable use of ocean resources.
The organisations stress that the campaign is non-partisan and aims simply to ensure that elected representatives hear directly from the people they represent.
A representative of the Bermuda National Trust said:
"Bermuda's ocean is central to our identity, heritage and quality of life. Healthy reefs and coastal ecosystems support our economy, protect our shoreline and enrich the lives of everyone who calls this island home. We cannot afford to lose the extraordinary marine environment that makes Bermuda unique. Now is the time for every resident who cares about our ocean to let their MP know that strong protection matters."
A representative of Nonsuch Expeditions' Our Oceans campaign said:
"Over the past few months, supporters and attendees of our films and other events have asked for a call to action: For more than seven years, local scientists, Government officers, ocean users and members of the public have contributed to developing a participatory and science-based plan for Bermuda's ocean. This campaign gives residents a simple way to show their support for moving that work forward."
A representative of the Bermuda Environmental Sustainability Taskforce (BEST) said:
"World MPA Day celebrates countries around the globe that are taking meaningful action to protect the ecosystems that sustain their communities. Bermuda has the science, the public support and the opportunity to be among them. Many people are increasingly concerned that progress has stalled, and this campaign offers a positive and respectful way for the public to encourage continued momentum."
The organisations recognise the significant work already undertaken by Government and the many individuals who have contributed to Bermuda's marine spatial planning process. At the same time, they note that years of scientific research, stakeholder engagement and strong community support have laid the foundation for action, and that every year we delay meaningful protection makes recovery more difficult and more costly.
They encourage residents to personalise their messages by explaining why Bermuda's ocean matters to them and why protecting it is important for future generations.
Bermuda has a unique opportunity to protect one of its greatest natural assets. The decisions we make today will determine the ocean we leave to future generations. Now is the time to make our voices heard.
Residents can participate in the campaign by visiting: https://bermuda.eaction.online/Write-Your-MP-to-protect-Our-Ocean