32. The Company of Fishmongers/University of Exeter, 23 November 2022

 Oceans in Crisis: Securing the Future of our Planet


At the invitation of the  Fishmongers’ Company and the University of Exeter,  the Thames Warden, Martin Bigg, on behalf of the Worshipful Company of Water Conservators and the Water Conservation Trust, attended  Fishmongers’ Hall for a series of talks on the future of our oceans.  Professor Callum Roberts, University of Exeter, described how the oceans had absorbed heat to keep the global temperature rise to about 1.5C.  Without their heat capacity temperatures would have risen by 36C. There are now 70% fewer fish, mammals and reptiles in the oceans than before the onset of industrial fishing.  George Duffield, Blue Marine Foundation, reminded us that 71% of the earth’s surface is ocean but the destruction and overfishing of the oceans is out of sight and out of mind.  Currently there are 4.5 million fishing vessels worldwide.  By combatting overfishing, we can help life in the ocean perform its vital function of stabilising the Earth’s climate.

The diverse range of organisations present with interests in river and sea environments resulted in fascinating discussions over lunch. These included the use of seaweed as green manure, global responses to oil pollution, sewage spills and supporting university research.

Speaking more generally it is good that the Oceans are now starting to receive the attention they deserve in public environmental debate. Company members will recollect that our own City Water Debates have covered the devastating impact of micro plastics on ocean ecosystems as well as the huge potential for offshore renewable energy, both highly important topics.

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