Back in May 2023, our Fair Seas campaign launched its first Ocean Literary Survey to find out where people’s knowledge about the marine environment comes from. The survey explored people’s relationship with Ireland’s coasts and seas, asking questions around how much time people spend by the sea and whether their lifestyle has an impact on the marine environment. The results are in, with data showing respondents to be very ocean aware and engaged.
1293 responses later, and Fair Seas have published their summary report. As the report makes clear, the results from the survey reveal that people across Ireland feel very connected to their marine environment. They are aware of the benefits that habitats, wildlife and coastal communities gain from a healthy ocean. Beyond demonstrating awareness, the Irish population also experience a strong emotional tie to Irish coasts and seas, with 60% respondents feeling awe or wonder when they think about the marine environment. Protecting the marine environment is important to almost everyone who completed the survey, with 99% of respondents indicating that it either important or very important to them on a personal level.
Fulmar calling. Photo: Brian Burke
Where survey results revealed positive attitudes towards the marine environment, like feelings of calm, peace and inspiration, there was also a significant degree of concern among respondents. Fair Seas’ summary report suggests that the Irish population possesses high levels of concern about the marine environment, especially related to the overall loss of species and habitats. Respondents commented on the noticeable decline of seabirds due to overfishing, the increase of non-native invasive species, the rise of marine pollution and agricultural run-off, and the impacts of coastal development.
When it comes to solutions, the survey results reveal widespread support for the designation of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in Ireland, with 98% people supporting this to some degree. Designation of MPAs is also identified by respondents as one of the top actions that the Irish government should be taking to protect Ireland’s coasts and seas. BirdWatch is a proud partner of Fair Seas, a coalition of Ireland’s leading non-governmental organisations and networks, and we are calling for the Irish government to set mandatory targets committing to effectively protecting 30% of the seas around Ireland by 2030, with 10% strictly protected. We are calling for stakeholder engagement at every stage, clear delivery timeframes and a robust management framework to ensure MPAs deliver for nature.
BirdWatch Ireland welcomes the strong appetite among the Irish population for MPA designation. Seabirds rely on healthy oceans for their survival and well-being, and when oceans are degraded or polluted, it can have detrimental effects on seabird populations, leading to declines in their numbers. Healthy oceans ensure a consistent food supply for seabirds, making it easier for them to find enough food to survive and reproduce. An effective network of MPAs in Ireland would provide suitable breeding grounds and safe migration routes for seabirds, therefore supporting the overall health and balance of marine ecosystems.
Great Skua in flight. Photo: Colum Clarke.
In conclusion, Fair Seas’ summary report on Ocean Literacy and Coastal Connections reveals high levels of knowledge, understanding and concern related to the marine environment in Ireland. As the report makes clear, there is also widespread consensus among respondents that the government should be doing more to protect Ireland’s coasts and seas. The MPA Bill would help to address this, edging us closer towards a well-protected, healthy and biodiverse marine environment which will benefit the seabirds, habitats, wildlife, people and communities of Ireland.
To support our Fair Seas campaign, you can ask your local politician about the upcoming MPA legislation, sign the petition, and sign up for the Fair Seas newsletter.
