Merlin Entertainments has announced a funding boost for 16 new Sea Life Trust conservation projects across Asia, Australia, the US and Europe.
The projects were selected by Merlin’s conservation board, which was created to save endangered species, protect oceans and freshwater environments, and support positive change around the world.
“We take immense pride in championing transformative conservation initiatives that have a tangible impact on aquatic wildlife and their habitats,” said Chris Brown, chair of Merlin’s conservation board, and head of conservation, science and education at Sea Life.
“Our teams are engaged in groundbreaking projects across the globe – from spearheading the Florida Reef Tract Rescue Project to community-based ecosystem restoration.
“Our commitment is unwavering, aiming to safeguard and revitalise the underwater world for the benefit of generations to come.”
One of the new projects is a coral rescue programme to safeguard Florida’s reefs from stony coral tissue loss disease. Sea Life San Antonio and Sea Life Charlotte-Concord are teaming up with three other Sea Life aquariums across the US on this initiative.
Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World is also expanding its work on damaged or depleted coral reefs. As part of this, it will develop a seagrass rewilding project in the Andaman region.
Elsewhere, Sea Life California is supporting a recovery programme for vulnerable zebra sharks in the Raja Ampat Islands in Indonesia.
Safeguarding the underwater world
Graham McGrath, managing director of Sea Life Trust, added: “At the core of the Sea Life Trust lies a profound commitment to marine conservation.
“Transformative projects and programmes which support the protection of the world’s oceans are central to this commitment.
“It is an honour to stand alongside Merlin‘s passionate global teams, driving change through a range of inspiring conservation initiatives.
“The collaborative efforts of Sea Life Trust, alongside Sea Life and Merlin, are making substantial and positive contributions to our planet’s aquatic habitats.”
Images courtesy of Merlin Entertainments
