Tommi Juusela’s Post

A recent proposal by the Ministry of National Development to establish a second marine park in the Southern Islands marks a significant step towards safeguarding, preserving and celebrating Singapore's coral reefs and marine life around Lazarus and Kusu Islands. This offers a beacon of hope for our underwater treasures against a backdrop of the ever-rising threats of climate change, pollution and human encroachment (among many other drivers involved) in modern society. The interconnectedness between land and sea is often overlooked. The new marine park is not merely about protecting the coral reefs and the marine life that depends on them; both have been continuously providing invaluable ecological services, such as shoreline protection and fishery support, for us, free of charge! Moreover, at a time where Singaporeans’ engagements, knowledge and appreciation for the nature and wildlife that grows right in our own backyard are becoming more limited, the marine park will be the perfect tool to raise awareness and inspire deeper appreciation for Singapore’s natural heritage and marine ecosystems, a key step in instilling a greater sense of collective responsibility and initiative among individuals to be better stewards for the environment. As an NGO focused on ocean conservation, we are glad that the intrinsic value of marine ecosystems and their integral role in sustaining life on Earth are now receiving the appropriate recognition and protection. Through our end-to-end solutions, we aim to protect and conserve the rich marine life that can be found in the coastal town of Pasir Ris. Through our clean up programmes (https://lnkd.in/g4rigZPs), we have helped to remove more than 10 tonnes of plastic waste which could have harmed any marine life unfortunate enough to consume them or get trapped by them. Our Mussel Lines (https://lnkd.in/gpkiZ_tH) that we plant around sea-based fish farms are each capable of filtering 1600-2000 litres of seawater per hour, removing harmful toxins, algae and bacteria (which are usually introduced by pollution and human activities) to allow marine life to flourish. Last but not least, we partner with Indonesian NGOs to repopulate coral-depleted waters in East Bali by planting more than 400 coral reef stars (https://lnkd.in/gt-HGqMM) into the seabed to promote coral growth along its surface. If you manage a coral restoration project (or know someone who does), or are interested in participating in our meaningful projects and/or sponsoring coral reef stars, do get in touch with us! Robust partnerships like these are key to scale up our projects and their impacts. The clock is ticking, and the time to act to save our remaining biodiversity is now. #LazarusIsland #KusuIsland #CoralReef #Conservation #Biodiversity

Indonesia's Shoreline Mangroves: Nature's Carbon Heroes *Indonesian Mangrove Project in vetting phase currently - 820,000ha. If interested get in touch* Indonesia's coastline, adorned with lush mangrove forests, assumes the role of nature's carbon heroes in the fight against climate change. The extensive root systems wear metaphorical capes & act as carbon superheroes, sequestering substantial amounts of carbon dioxide. These coastal forests, covering an impressive 3.2 million hectares pack the greatest carbon sequestering punch in the world of trees. These mangroves aren't just casual carbon collectors; they're incredibly proficient at their job, locking away approximately 1,000 metric tons of carbon per hectare. Beyond their carbon-storing abilities, they serve as natural coastal protectors, prepared to shield against erosion and storm surges (such as Tsunamis). These biodiversity hotspots are bustling with life and provide resources for local communities, like wood, fish, and shrimp. In essence, they're the Swiss Army knives of coastal ecosystems, vital for balancing the earth's fragile ecosystem. Such invaluable ecosystems face threats from deforestation, coastal development, and climate change. To safeguard them, a league of environmental champions must assemble. Conservation organizations, governments, and communities must form an alliance to protect existing mangroves from legal/illegal clearing and to encourage reforestation to revive damaged areas. International cooperation and funding are also vital to support Indonesia's efforts in preserving its carbon-sequestering mangroves. Recognizing their importance is essential for the planet's health and stability. After all, saving mangroves isn't just about trees; it's about reducing future carbon emissions and empowering communities. Indonesia's shoreline mangroves store carbon efficiently, protect coastlines, and support biodiversity. To secure their future, we must implement conservation and restoration programs, engage local communities, and foster international cooperation.

Conservation International applauds the Biden Administration’s announcement of new national ocean conservation strategies to mark the beginning of National Ocean Month. This set of priorities for biodiversity, sustainable economic development, and advanced research are needed to better understand and protect our ocean and the vital services it provides.    Our ocean is the origin and engine of all life on our planet, but having absorbed 90% of the excess heat humans have emitted, it’s in peril. By the end of the century, more of the world’s seas could be hot, acidic and lifeless, with catastrophic implications for marine life, Earth’s climate and the food security of billions of people. The world must work quickly and diligently to protect at least 30% of our ocean for the wellbeing of people and planet. This work starts with coordinated strategies like the ones announced today.

Deadline Extended for James A. Waight Award Nominations Nominations can be sent to communications@belizeaudubon.org or mailed to the BAS head office. The deadline has been extended to 4:30 p.m., Friday, January 5, 2023. Please copy and paste the following link in a new browser to download the nomination form. https://lnkd.in/erPDeRH4 This highly respected award, presented annually, is named in memory of one of the Society's distinguished founders, Mr. James A. Waight. It honors individuals or organizations that actively contribute to the vital cause of conserving and enhancing Belize's unique environment on a national or local level. To be eligible for the 38th Annual James A. Waight Award, nominees must meet the following stringent criteria: * Be a Belizean or a resident of Belize. * Actively engage in work directly related to the conservation and protection of the environment. * Contribute to one or more of the following areas: Ecosystem conservation, such as forest, reef, or coastal zone conservation; pollution control; waste management; ecotourism promotion; the socio-economic environment; indigenous rights; and socio-cultural protection. The efforts of the nominee must demonstrate a strong social dimension and display innovation or non-traditional approaches. Nominations are now open and anyone can put forward a nominee, whether they be a friend, family member, or colleague. It is essential that the nomination includes compelling evidence of how the nominee fulfills the criteria mentioned above. Whenever possible, this evidence should be supported by photographic and/or video documentation. Mark your calendars, as the winner of the 38th Annual James A. Waight Award will be announced on Thursday, February 16, 2024.

In this picture I was in canary Islands and we can see one of these amazing protected islands 😍 Have you heard of El Hierro? This Canary Island was declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2000, with approximately 60% of its territory now under #environmental #protection. 😯 But what truly sets El Hierro apart is its #commitment to #sustainability. Why? Around 50% of the island's farmers embrace organic farming practices to protect the environment. 🎣 Stringent fishing regulations are in place to preserve the health of the surrounding seas. The local administration has taken significant steps by investing in #renewable #energy sources, harnessing the power of wind and water. El Hierro has become the world's only island capable of producing its entire electrical needs using wind and hydroelectric facilities for 28 consecutive days. Spain stands out for its environmental commitment, with a third of its #territory protected, the highest adherence to the EU's Natura 2000 network (27%), and holding the world record for UNESCO Biosphere Reserves (53). The case of El Hierro #inspires us to #pursue a more sustainable future through technological innovation, which is also the cornerstone of the projects we implement at 3Bee every day. What might be other examples of environmentally conscious regions actively engaged in biodiversity conservation? 😍 Lanzarote maybe? Or Formentera? #islands #environment #protection #focus

A breakdown of the environmental goals Royal Caribbean is moving towards. https://lnkd.in/ggmMUwxs #cruise #travel #royalcaribbean #royalcaribbeangroup #sustainability #environment #cruiseindustry

📌WEBINAR: "Strengthening the Mitigation Hierarchy in Pacific Infrastructure and Tourism Projects" 📆 Wednesday, 27 March 2024 🕰 2:00 pm Samoa Time (UTC +13:00) ➡ Register at: https://lnkd.in/d24zznAa This webinar will explore implementing the mitigation hierarchy and IFC Performance Standard 6 (PS6) for sustainable tourism and infrastructure development in the Pacific region. Speaker Guy Dutson, an expert in biodiversity conservation in the Pacific, will share insights on applying these frameworks to avoid, minimise and offset environmental impacts. Don't miss this chance to learn from real-world case studies and hear practical strategies for balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship.

The new European Nature Restoration initiative is undeniably a great step in the right direction. It's exiting to witness a growing commitment to restoring and protecting our natural ecosystems. However, now more than ever, it is crucial that we ensure our efforts are efficient and tangible. Let's seize this opportunity to restore and preserve the beauty and vitality of our natural world.

What a proud to see the publication of my Master thesis used as a reference for this important assessment in EU Outermost Regions for sustainable planning :)

🌱 Exciting News! 🌍 European Nature Restoration: A Great Step in the Right Direction We are thrilled to share the news about the new European Commission’s Nature Restoration Law, which marks a significant milestone in our collective efforts towards creating a more sustainable and resilient planet. This ambitious endeavour reflects a growing recognition of the urgent need to restore and protect our natural ecosystems, and it represents a great step in the right direction. As we embark on this transformative journey, it is important to acknowledge that we are still in the early stages of a major transition to sustainable land usage. While the European Nature Restoration initiative brings hope and renewed focus on conservation and restoration, it also highlights the immense work that lies ahead of us. At Terrafarmers, we are proud to be a part of this vital sector, working tirelessly to contribute to nature restoration and planet regeneration. Our innovative approaches, such as aerial seeding, post-fire regeneration, soil improvement, and biodiversity restoration, are designed to enhance ecosystem health and resilience. We firmly believe that by utilizing advanced technologies and nature-based solutions, we can accelerate the restoration process and create a positive impact on a larger scale. However, we must also recognize that nature restoration requires a collaborative and holistic approach. It demands the combined efforts of governments, organizations, businesses, and individuals to address the multifaceted challenges we face, including habitat loss, climate change, and biodiversity decline. It is crucial that we work together to ensure the success of these restoration initiatives and create a sustainable future for generations to come. As we celebrate the European Nature Restoration initiative, let us remain steadfast in our commitment to environmental stewardship. Together, let's continue to innovate, collaborate, and push the boundaries of what is possible. There is much work to be done, but with dedication and collective action, we can restore and protect our precious natural ecosystems, securing a better future for all. https://lnkd.in/g2czp9VK #EuropeanNatureRestoration #Sustainability #NatureConservation #Terrafarmers #EcosystemRestoration #Collaboration #GenerationRestoration