News
The Sea And Me
The Marine Conservation Society has released a series of three short films which explore our connections to the sea.
Supported by players of People's Postcode Lottery and created by filmmaker Dominic Joyce, the films follow three individuals as they explore the different experiences which have led them to a deeper connection with our blue planet: surfing, diving and beach cleaning.
Sea Champions
Vaishali is one of Marine Conservation Society's Sea Champion volunteers. In her film, Vaishali speaks of the bond to the ocean which she has found since starting beach cleaning in 2017. Her volunteering efforts quickly became a labour of love. She's been amazed by the strikingly beautiful life which our coastal environments are teeming with. Through her efforts, Vaishali has learned a lot about local wildlife and has seen first-hand the impact of pollution on marine life.
Vaishali notes, "It's really important for us to change things now, and we can do that. If anything I've learned is that if we put our mind to it as a community, we can change the tide. We are the species that destroy the planet but we can also be the species that actually save it."
Vaishali also reflects on the wellbeing benefits of her time beach cleaning. She said, "Going to a calm and quiet beach, it helps you focus better. I know there's a saying 'blow your cobwebs away' and it's true. It kind of gets rid of the dirt and cleanses your mind and you go home feeling relaxed, happy and rejuvenated."
The Marine Conservation Society's beach cleaning project runs all year round. Volunteers are able to organise their own beach clean, or join one at their local coast. To find beach cleans happening near you please check out the charity's website.
Filmmaker Dominic Joyce said, "Each of our contributors have such an incredible relationship with the sea from both an environmental standpoint and a personal one. Each story demonstrates what power the ocean has over us. My hope is that people watch these films and see that the British coast is truly one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world and one that is so clearly worth protecting."
Protecting Our Oceans
Laura Chow, Head of Charities at People's Postcode Lottery, said, "The sea means something different to each of us. These films capture the awe-inspiring nature of the sea, the close emotional connection that individuals have with it and the positive impact it has on health and wellbeing.
"But the films also highlight the vulnerability of our oceans and how susceptible they can be to the negative impact of humans.
"Our players have raised £3.75 Million to support Marine Conservation Society. I'm delighted this money is helping protect our oceans and marine environments, helping them to thrive so they can continue to be enjoyed by everyone."
The Sea and Me films are available to watch in full at the Marine Conservation Society website.
Making A Difference
People's Postcode Lottery players are helping deserving causes like Marine Conservation Society make a difference every single day. Read more about the range of Charities which our players support.
Related Links
The Sea and Me - Beside
Published: 07/02/2022
