The ocean covers two-thirds of our planet, yet we know more about the surface of Mars than we do about the depths of the sea! The ocean is home to an incredible diversity of life, from tiny plankton to huge whales. It provides us with vital resources, such as food and oxygen, and helps to regulate the Earth's climate by sucking carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere, storing it permanently in the seafloor.

Yet the health of the ocean is under threat from a variety of sources, including pollution, overfishing, and climate change. If we are to protect this vital resource, we must all take action. Here are some simple things you can do to support ocean conservation:

1 - Find (& Support) Your Closest Marine Reserve

Marine Reserves are quite simply that - protected parts of the ocean. We know that these magical places create healthy oceans, even if previously disturbed. The heal. We know where to put them, how to keep them healthy, and how they fill up with life, spillling over into the waters surrounding Marine Reserves. Keen to find your closest Marine Reserve? Check out the amazing interactive MPA Atlas website.

Below is our favourite marine reserve, what’s yours?

Most fish populations are in decline due to overfishing. But we can make better choices by selecting species that are more sustainable than others. Our seafood choices should be based on the way the animal was caught, how quickly they grow and reach sexual maturity, and historical fishing pressure. As a general rule of thumb you want to choose low on the food chain (herbivores over apex predators).

Here’s a list of the best apps for your country:

South Africa - WWF’s Sassi

U.S.A - Seafood Watch

UK - Good Fish Guide

3 - Watch What You Flush Down the Drain

“Water and air, the two essential fluids on which all life depends, have become global garbage cans.” ― Jacques-Yves Cousteau
Everything we flush down the drain ends up in the sea. Simply switching out the chemicals that you use in your homes to biodegradable products takes huge pressure off of the ocean, and waterways connecting us to it. From dishwashing skin products - we can choose natural, biodegradable, products.

Running an NGO is tough, particularly one focussed on conservation. Why not reach out to your favourite NGO with an offer to lend a hand. You could volunteer your time and skills, donate (any amount) monthly, join their mailing list or simply follow, like and share their bad shark puns on social media. Actions of support encourages and invigorate the passionate folks taking up the thankless task of turning the tide on ocean destruction.

5 - Book an Online Experience

What if we told you that sharks aren't actually as dangerous as you think? In fact, they're crucial to the health of our oceans. And what if we could show you how to help protect them?

By booking to Meet a Real Life Shark Scientist, you'll get an up-close look at the world of shark science and conservation, tailored to you. You'll learn about the latest research, discover why sharks are so important, and find out how you can make a difference.

Click here to learn more and read over 1100 5-star reviews for Meet a Real Life Shark Scientist.

So what are you waiting for? Get out there and book your next team building experience today! It's sure to be a fin-tastic time!