Issue 99 - August 2023
Novel Research Takes Marine Conservation Tools to a New Dimension
Contributed by UPWELL
Mobilizing multidimensional movement data and fisheries effort data to help protect critically endangered East Pacific leatherback sea turtles.

MONTEREY, CA – In the new article “Incorporating multidimensional behaviour into a risk management tool for a critically endangered and migratory species” published in Conservation Biology in May 2023, researchers combined data on the diving behaviour of East Pacific leatherbacks with data on fishing effort from Global Fishing Watch to enhance the South Pacific TurtleWatch (SPTW) dynamic ocean management tool. Lead author and Upwell Researcher Nicole Barbour states, “The method we use is a novel example of how behaviour and vertical movements, such as diving or flying, can be incorporated with fisheries data into risk and dynamic management tools for endangered, migratory species. We demonstrated this method on the critically endangered Eastern Pacific leatherback turtle but have additionally provided publicly available example code and models with our manuscript so that studies on other migratory species of conservation interest can adopt similar methods.”

The critically endangered East Pacific leatherback sea turtle population is highly migratory and dives constantly (sometimes up to 1,200 meters) as it swims to forage, avoid predators, thermoregulate, and navigate. In order to contemplate this vertical habitat use in protection strategies, researchers generated maps showing the relative risk of turtle-fisheries interactions based on data obtained from dive tags identifying three states of leatherback behaviour (transiting, residential/mixed-depth diving, and residential/deep diving) and fishing effort data specific to gear type (longlines, trawl nets, gillnets, etc.) from Global Fishing Watch.
These maps were then added as new layers of information to the South Pacific TurtleWatch dynamic ocean management tool to refine its capability to provide predictions of potential high-risk bycatch areas. The SPTW is a unique model created by scientists from Upwell and the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science (UMCES), and other partners to empower fishers with the knowledge of where and when they are most likely to encounter leatherbacks in the Eastern Pacific Ocean with the aim of reducing the risk of incidental capture. The application of the new and rich dataset on fishing efforts from Global Fishing Watch was especially helpful to fill information gaps about the region’s fisheries in the SPTW.
The article was a collaborative effort initiated by the international non-profit sea turtle research and conservation organization Upwell with partners from the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science, MigraMar, SUNY College of Environmental and Forest Sciences, and Mercator Ocean International. Upwell Executive Director Dr. George Shillinger reflected on the article’s impact, saying, “We hope that our findings will spark a broader discussion about the urgency to leverage any and all credible data to better understand and mitigate the threats posed to leatherbacks by fisheries. The tool presents an opportunity to spark dialogue about sea turtle conservation and to inform efforts to reduce fisheries impacts across the range, distribution, and life history of this critically endangered leatherback population.”
About Upwell
Upwell’s mission is to protect endangered sea turtles by reducing threats at sea, including fisheries bycatch, ship strikes, pollution, and climate change. We believe there is an urgent and unmet conservation need: to protect sea turtles where they spend most of their lives:, in the ocean. Upwell collects data on how sea turtles use different marine habitats at different stages of their lives and creates targeted solutions to adequately mitigate threats they face at sea.
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Feature Destination
SEVENSEAS Travel Magazine – August 2023 – Issue 99

Feature Destination
Peru Passes Important Ocean Protection Law to Protect The First Five Nautical Miles at Sea
The approval of the law recognizing ancestral and artisanal fishing is a historic milestone that guarantees the protection of this zone, benefiting over 50,000 artisanal fishermen who provide 80% of the fish that feeds the Peruvian population. Read more…
Hiking Through History: How Can You Discover Peru’s Past on Foot?
Peru is an ancient country with a complex history. The Incan Empire, who lived here from around 1200 AD, played a vital role in the country’s development until it was conquered by the Spanish in the 1500s. Read more…
Rare Peruvian Diving-Petrels Nesting on Chañaral Island Following Decades of Absence
Peruvian Diving-petrels (known locally as “yuncos”) are small ground-nesting seabirds endemic to the Humboldt Current System that flows along the western coast of South America. Read more…
UNESCO Designates 11 New Biosphere Reserves
UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme has approved the designation of 10 new biospheres reserves in 9 countries, and one transboundary biosphere reserve across 2 countries. With these new designations, the World Network now totals 748 sites in 134 countries, including 23 transboundary sites. Read more…
NEWSROOM
Blue Movement Directory: A New, Updated, Geo-Map-Based Guide Empowering Ocean Action Worldwide
Blue Frontier, the nationally recognized nonprofit organization founded in 2003 and known as “The Voice for Ocean Action,” is proud to announce the launch of its newly updated, revised and geo-map-based Blue Movement Directory. Read more…
Nice Dive & Trips To Madagascar: Explore Nosy Be and Save Endangered Lemurs
Premier tour agency based in Vienna, Austria, NiCe Dive & Trips GmbH has launched an exclusive travel to the captivating archipelago of Nosy Be, Madagascar from the 25th of September to the 4th of October 2023. Read more…
Curtin University’s Prof. Robert McCauley Honored as Top Marine Scientist for Pioneering Whale Song Research
A pioneering marine scientist, whose dedication has contributed to a greater understanding of the secret life of whales through their song, has today been honoured among Australia’s top marine scientists. Read more…
Novel Research Takes Marine Conservation Tools to a New Dimension
We hope that our findings will spark a broader discussion about the urgency to leverage any and all credible data to better understand and mitigate the threats posed to leatherbacks by fisheries. The tool presents an opportunity to spark dialogue about sea turtle conservation and to inform efforts to reduce fisheries impacts. Read more…
Mindful Conservation: Why We Need a New Respect for Nature
As a biologist, I am trained to believe that data is everything. I have collected data and published scientific articles for more than 25 years. But while scientific data certainly is important to underpin the need to protect landscapes, to create protected areas and to restore biodiversity, it’s just one aspect of how we can work towards safeguarding nature. Read more…
The Most Definitive List of The World’s Best Beaches Ever Created Is Released
The World’s 50 Best Beaches, Presented By Banana Boat, has released a new list of the best beaches in the world. The list is a collaboration with over 750 of the world’s leading travel influencers and professionals, including many of the biggest names in travel such as Jyo Shankar, Pilot Madeleine, Dame Traveler and others. Read more…
Discover White Charks & More in 3D: Cutting-Edge, Interactive Shark and Ray Displays Bring The Ocean to Life
The Save Our Seas Foundation (SOSF) is bringing sharks to life, thanks to interactive 3D models that will be available across various platforms. Visitors to the World of Sharks website can investigate the biology and evolution of sharks and rays by rotating first-of-their-kind models online at the SOSF’s flagship information repository. Read more…
SAY GOODBYE TO LIDS FOR GOOD: ChoosePlanetA Launches Ground-Breaking First Single-use Paper Cup
The unique and patented paper cup comes with an integrated top flap that easily folds and locks into place which does away with the traditional use of plastic lids. Made from a bio-based, 100% certified home compostable paper, it is also free from PE (Polyethylene) coating. Read more…
The Reef-World Foundation is a Winner of The Escape 100: Awards for The Top Purpose-Led Organisations to Work At
James Greenhalgh, Digital Strategy Manager at The Reef-World Foundation, commented: “The Reef-World Foundation is a phenomenal place to work where everyone’s contribution is valued, and our team is able to punch well above our weight in terms of conservation impact. Read more…
The World’s First App Store to Lead The Fight Against Climate Change
Greenly, the leading carbon accounting and management platform, announced today the launch of The Climate App Store, the world’s first app store focused on providing tools to measure and reduce users’ carbon footprints. Read more…
MSU Researchers Offer Enhanced Definition of ‘Climate-Smart Forestry’
Over the last few decades, forests have become an increasingly important focus of international investment, in efforts to promote change in global deforestation and degradation trends, and as a means to reduce and remove atmospheric greenhouse gases (GHG). Read more…
How We Created the Hottest Global Average Temperature Day and What to Do About It
July 3rd was the hottest day recorded as a global average of temperatures taken at hundreds of sites worldwide. The worldwide average for that day was 62.62 degrees Fahrenheit. The record stood one day until July 4th, which was even hotter at 62.92 degrees. Read more…
Schmidt Marine Technology Partners Announces Recipients of $3.5 Million Global Sustainable Fisheries Initiative
Schmidt Marine Technology Partners, a program of the Schmidt Family Foundation, has awarded $3.5 million in grants to ten organizations and universities in seven countries for the development of new tools and innovations that will improve the sustainability of global fisheries, the program announced today. Read more…
WeWhale Launches Merchandise Collection, with 100% of The Profits Going Directly to Whale & Dolphin Protection Projects
The whale and dolphin projects being supported are of vital importance. Among them is the development of an innovative system that helps prevent collisions between vessels and cetaceans, as well as the creation of a sanctuary where captured marine mammals can be released and returned to their natural home. Read more…
SEVENSEAS Beach Cleanup & Coral Restoration Events in Marine Protected Areas
In July 2023, SEVENSEAS Media conducted two impactful events in Krabi, Thailand. The Monthly Beach Cleanup Event at Ao Sew Beach saw enthusiastic volunteers remove a staggering 150.6 kilograms of trash, underscoring the pressing issue of marine pollution and the significance of sustainable practices like reducing, reusing, and recycling waste. The organization stressed the importance of proper waste management to protect coastal ecosystems.
Meanwhile, in the face of an unexpected storm, SEVENSEAS Media’s Coral Nursery & Restoration team demonstrated unwavering dedication, rescuing and relocating 75 corals to safer locations, bolstering their chances of survival and growth. The team outlined a comprehensive plan for continued coral recovery missions and data collection efforts throughout the year. The recent storm served as a stark reminder of the urgency to safeguard coral reefs from climate change impacts. We would like to express our gratitude for the support received from individuals and communities in this conservation community. We would not be able to do it without your support. You can make a tax-deductible donation here to keep our publications and Thailand Cleanup Project afloat.
You can either make a direct financial contribution to SEVENSEAS Media through The Ocean Foundation website or connect us with potential donors by sending an email to Giacomo Abrusci, our Editor-in-Chief.
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Since 2004, SEVENSEAS Media has fostered an informal and non-partisan platform to promote understanding of key issues and challenges while building partnerships across an increasingly diverse group of marine conservation professionals and students.
Our mission is to promote communication and build partnerships across the global marine community and to identify and address gaps in the community’s work. SEVENSEAS Media achieves this through multimedia promotion and partnerships. The community consists of a diverse and growing group of participants, including non-governmental organizations, government agencies, foundations, bilateral and multilateral agencies, fellowship programs, independent consultants, and academia/students.
If you are interested in contributing or getting involved, email us Here.
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Clean Up Events & Coral Restoration
SEVENSEAS Media Coral Nursery & Restoration Activity Update: July 2023
Amidst an unexpected storm, our diving team persists, rescuing and relocating corals to safer nurseries while forging ahead with essential data collection for the preservation of marine life in Krabi Thailand.



This month, our coral nursery and restoration team recently commenced a mission to rescue and relocate corals in the face of adversity. Despite facing unforeseen challenges, the team demonstrated unwavering dedication and commitment to safeguarding these fragile ecosystems.
During a routine visit to the nursery, the team found themselves caught in the clutches of an unexpected storm, leaving them stranded for nearly four hours. Despite the adversity, their passion for conservation never wavered. With unyielding determination, they rescued a total of 75 corals from the previous nurseries and relocated them to new, safer havens at deeper locations. The efforts made during this critical mission are expected to increase the corals’ chances of survival and growth.
Undeterred by the challenges faced, our team has laid out a comprehensive plan to continue its mission throughout the year. Starting immediately, they will venture out twice a week until December 2023, combining coral recovery missions with essential data collection efforts.
As the project unfolds, more updates will be provided, shedding light on the progress made, the challenges overcome, and the discoveries unearthed through their rigorous scientific data collection. Rest assured, we will keep our marine community and the public informed about our mission to preserve and restore our invaluable coral ecosystems.
We would like to express our gratitude for all support received from individuals, organizations, and communities alike. Without this collective backing, such conservation efforts would not be possible. Every contribution, whether big or small, has played an instrumental role in our success so far.












In light of the recent storm’s impact, the next nursery outing will see a slight shift in focus. Instead of planting new corals, the team will prioritize the collection and regrouping of survivors, salvaging them from the damage caused by the freak storm. The decision to establish a new nursery at a deeper location is a strategic measure aimed at bolstering the corals’ resilience against future storms.
With a notable absence of storms of this magnitude for over five years, this event serves as a stark reminder of the increasing unpredictability of weather patterns and the urgent need to safeguard our coral reefs from the impacts of climate change.
Stay tuned for more updates, data insights, and stories of resilience as we continue our inspiring journey to save and revitalize the reef in Krabi. Your continued support will make all the difference in this race against time to protect one of Earth’s most precious ecosystems.
Note: The above information is based on the latest update from SEVENSEAS Media Coral Nursery & Restoration activities in July 2023. Further developments and updates will be shared once available.

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Clean Up Events & Coral Restoration
SEVENSEAS Media Beach Cleanup Event from July 28, 2023
A Total of 150.6 Kilograms of Trash Removed, Highlighting the Importance of Sustainable Practices



Krabi, Thailand, witnessed another successful beach cleanup event organized by SEVENSEAS Media on July 28, 2023. With the breathtaking backdrop of Ao Sew, volunteers joined forces to combat the pressing issue of marine pollution and its devastating impact on our oceans.
Under the scorching sun and amidst the soothing waves, our volunteers collected an impressive 150.6 kilograms of trash from this seemingly small beach. The amount is truly alarming, reflecting the scale of the marine pollution crisis. However, it also showcases the unwavering commitment of individuals who strive to protect our coastal ecosystems.
The collected debris was segregated, with 19 kilograms earmarked for recycling—a testament to the potential of converting waste into valuable resources. A total of 27 bags were used to store the collected trash, symbolizing the sheer volume of litter that relentlessly finds its way onto our pristine shores.








SEVENSEAS Media understands that the ultimate solution to marine pollution lies in tackling the problem at its source. While beach cleanups play a crucial role in mitigating immediate impacts, the key to long-term change lies in reducing waste production and adopting sustainable practices.
Individuals can make a significant difference by embracing the three R’s: Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle. By being mindful of our consumption habits and opting for eco-friendly alternatives, we can minimize the generation of waste that often ends up in our oceans. Reusing items wherever possible and recycling materials that can be repurposed help close the loop and decrease the burden on our environment.
It is also important to ensure that the waste we do produce is disposed of correctly. Implementing proper waste management systems, supporting recycling initiatives, and promoting composting can go a long way in diverting trash from entering our seas.
Our monthly beach cleanup serves as a reminder that the fight against marine pollution is ongoing, and our collective efforts can drive positive change. The beauty of Ao Sew, Krabi, and countless other coastal treasures around the world depends on our commitment to protecting them.
Be a part of SEVENSEAS Media’s Beach Cleanup in Krabi, Thailand, and help combat marine pollution. Join us to remove tons of trash from the beach and make a powerful impact on our environment. The date of the event will be announced on our Facebook Page. If you can’t make it in person? Show your support with a donation to keep our mission going.

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