Wildlife trafficking is, unfortunately, a lucrative industry that threatens the existence of many marine species, unbeknownst to many end consumers.

I love the Ocean, and as a Wavemaker, I think it’s important to talk about the not-so-nice topics too. I promise not to dwell on the negatives because in Ocean Generation style, we can always find shining lights of hope and innovation. 

Why wildlife trafficking should matter to us all

Did you know that 80% of our Ocean has yet to be explored? The deep blue has long fascinated me, but it faces a dark and menacing enemy: the illegal trafficking of animals and animal parts.

I love discovering species I’ve never heard about or basic facts I’ve taken for granted. That’s why it breaks my heart to know that of the 20% we’ve discovered, wildlife is being trapped, trafficked, and sold on the black market for medicine, for use in beauty products and as pets. None of this is legal and it’s an international problem.

ICYMI: wildlife trafficking, in our Ocean (and on land), involves a dark and messy international network. It involves maritime trade in the ports across the world: from Hong Kong, to Lagos, Nigeria, to Callao, Peru.

In 2021 the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) assessed over 1,200 species of sharks, rays, and chimera. The report concluded that about 521 of those were “critically endangered” or “endangered” and that 173 did not have sufficient data to analyse the threat level.

Only about 150 shark species are protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Fauna and Flora.  But sadly the treaty isn’t recognised by many smaller fishing-based nations. That’s only one of the many loopholes upon which traffickers capitalise.

Trafficking of endangered species disrupts Ocean ecosystems and impacts fish supply in fishing communities. The actors involved range from big business and criminal organisations to fishermen unknowingly contributing while simply trying to feed their families. Many (but not all) of these actors are armed with advanced technology and weapons, hence well equipped to avoid detection.

What do beauty products have to do with sharks (and sea cucumbers)?

Many Ocean species are targeted for wildlife trafficking, for various reasons. Sharks and sea-cucumbers are prime targets for use in the beauty industry, of all places.

Firstly, if all you know about sharks comes from the movies, please read this great article from Ocean Generation!  I’ve come to love sharks: they’re prehistoric, majestic, powerful, and curious creatures. They have astounding sensory systems (they can feel the electricity in your heartbeat!), and are just as curious as your dog who runs and sniffs every unknown person in its environment.

Unfortunately, sharks are a prime target for wildlife traffickers. Their liver contains a highly sought after oil compound called squalene. Research shows that ⅓ of shark species on the IUCN Red List (i.e. threatened, endangered, or critically endangered) are targeted.

Squalene has been used in beauty products for a while, and is in high demand because…

“[it] increases the spreadability and absorption of creams [and can] diminish the appearance of fine lines”

Traffickers will capture sharks just to get squalene in large enough quantities to sell to big beauty companies.

What about sea cucumbers?

This occurs with a lesser-known creature, at least in Europe and the Americas, too:  the humble sea cucumber. Named after the texture of its skin and oblong shape, these little guys are ‘bottom feeders’. They play a vital role in recycling nutrients and even in lowering Ocean acidity.

Unfortunately, their nutrients are highly sought after in traditional Asian medicine. There are conflicting reports, but some researchers state that compounds derived from sea-cucumbers can help with anti-ageing, hypertension, joint problems, and Alzheimer’s disease. These findings should be taken with a pinch of salt because studies with humans are scant.

A light at the end of the tunnel.

If I’ve learned anything from Ocean Generation, it’s that there’s always a way to start making a difference… no matter how small the action or how big the problem. I particularly love to see solutions from Mother Nature to better protect our Ocean!

On the microscopic-level beauty companies have found innovative and science-backed solutions to avoid using squalene. Turns out, hydrating skincare products can be supplemented with fermented sugar cane-derived squalene.

Calling on man’s best friend: K-9 Detection Units

On the macroscopic-level, authorities worldwide have turned to man’s best friend for help to curb wildlife trafficking.

Working with K-9 units and modern technologies makes a more effective monitoring and detection system for trafficked organic matter. Dogs have been used with great success in Kenya and Australia at sea and airports. A dog’s sense of smell (much like that of sharks) is far more effective than visual detection by humans. Hence, K-9 units can pick out suspicious bags, that are then checked thoroughly with X-rays and 3D scans.

‘What can I do about wildlife trafficking?’

That’s a question that many people ask themselves and that we’ve discussed in our virtual book club, “Current Conversations”. We know that in large companies, collaboration, R&D and innovation are vital to finding effective alternatives.

On a more personal scale, you can use your purchasing power. This means a few different things:

• Do your research: before you shop, look up your go-to brands and learn how they source their ingredients.
• Read labels carefully: check the ingredients and look for symbols such as “sustainable”, “fair trade” and “not tested on animals”.
• Choose wisely: consider more than just trends and availability when buying items.
• Spread the word! Tell your friends and family about eco-conscious companies and what you’ve learned here (and from your research).

Let’s work together, from the sea floor up, to combat wildlife trafficking!

Thank you for raising your voice for the Ocean, Sana!

Learn about how to submit your own Wavemaker Story here.

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Sana Lamy

Sana has always loved being in the water, although the Ocean was somewhat daunting. However, once she learned a bit more about deep sea creatures and the mechanisms behind hydraulic energy, the Ocean became a great fascination! She is pursuing master's studies at the University of Cambridge (U.K.) and researching the interconnection between the power of water and it's importance to the visual culture of early-modern (16-18th centuries) Europe.

This is a story about a girl who stood at the edge of despair and found purpose instead. Through her pain and connection to the Ocean, she transforms her grief into action. Trigger warning: This story contains themes of depression, suicidal thoughts, and environmental grief. Please take care while reading.

It was the end.

She was going to die today, she said—gladly…her toes curled over the edge of the rotting pier, salt stinging her lips, the wind a feral whisper in her ear. Her gaze fixed on the vast, broken Ocean before her, its bruised waves roiling beneath the burnt-orange sky. It mirrored the hollow, infinite ache inside her. The war in her mind raged louder than the tide; a thousand voices clawed at her sanity. And if she was going to surrender, it would be to the only thing that had ever brought her peace.

She stood at the edge, the salt-laced wind knotting her curls, the horizon swallowing the sun in a blaze of crimson and gold. The sea below thrashed—restless, wounded, gasping beneath the weight of a world that had stopped listening. It didn’t shimmer like in the tourist brochures. It pulsed like a dying heart.

At seventeen, Ola bore the burden of a world she had never agreed to inherit. She was African—her skin dark as the fertile earth, her hair a crown of wild curls—and she lived in a town stitched together with hope and hardship. A place where rusting boats outnumbered jobs, and the government’s promises dissolved like mist over the dunes. Cracked pavements. Empty fridges. School jumpers passed down like heirlooms. The Ocean was her only constant. Her only witness. Her only sanctuary.

But now, even the waves felt tired.

There was a war inside Ola—not of bullets or bloodshed, but of thoughts. A mental insurgency. Unrelenting. Sharp. TikTok showed her how to shrink herself. Instagram reminded her daily that she wasn’t enough—not thin enough, rich enough, pretty enough, perfect enough. Her feed was a glittering graveyard of lives she could never live. She watched influencers with glistening skin and sun-kissed travel vlogs gain followers by the thousands, while her own life unraveled in silence.

She posted smiles. But inside? She was fracturing. The anxiety buzzed like static beneath her ribs. The depression? A thick, silent fog, creeping through every corridor of her mind. Some days, breathing felt like betrayal. Her reflection, a stranger. Her body, a burden. Her heart, a battlefield.

She hated her skin for being “too dark,” too different. She learned early that society’s beauty was not made for her—always a reminder in sideways glances, mispronounced names, and the casual racism that seeped into everyday. But the Ocean—oh, the Ocean—never judged her. It held no prejudice, only endless acceptance.

That day, at the pier, she hadn’t meant to go home.

She stared into the Ocean’s churn, wondering if it would hold her gently—or not at all. She remembered the dolphins’ wails from childhood—how their mournful songs once rocked her to sleep when insomnia gnawed at her chest. She remembered the kiss of warm sand between her toes, each grain a whisper of stability when everything else crumbled. She remembered the nights when her mum worked double shifts and dinner was uncertain—but the sea? The sea never forgot her, it fed her the nights she was meant to go hungry, fulfilled more promises than the corrupt institutions that yearned for profit. Through her reminiscing she leaned into the biting cold wind that kissed her face, and as she leaned forward, she heard it.

Not her name. Not a warning. But a cry. The Ocean, hoarse and breaking, called to her. And she saw it—truly saw it—for the first time.Not as a beautiful escape, but a bleeding body.
Plastic bottles bobbed like bloated corpses. Ghost nets snaked through the water like nooses. Bleached corals, once neon with life, now brittle white bones.
Oil-slicked fish drifted, glassy-eyed and broken.

The sea wasn’t wild. It was wounded.

And in that moment, Ola realised the Ocean was like her: expected to give endlessly, loved only when convenient, and discarded when no longer picture-perfect.

A flashback hit her like lightning—how festivalgoers trashed the beach and laughed about it. How fast fashion hauls came wrapped in unrecyclable packaging. How she once bought a swimsuit with a smiling turtle on it—only to later learn that turtles were dying in droves, strangled by six-pack rings. And she remembered that story: a diver saved from a shark by a fluke change in tide—only for that same shark to later wash up dead, its stomach split open with plastic straws, bottle caps, and candy wrappers.

No one had cared.

Just like no one had cared when her father lost his job after the fishing trade collapsed. Or when teachers stumbled over her name year after year—never trying, always shortening her identity. Or when her mum cried quietly over bills, and Ola had to pretend not to hear.

The Ocean didn’t just feed them. It was them. And it, too, was being erased.

She stepped back from the edge

Not because the pain was gone. But because it had fuelled purpose. Ola turned her grief into fire. Her voice into a vessel. She defied the expectations that constricted her, recorded a video—no makeup, no filters. Just her. Her words. Her truth. She spoke about the diver. The shark. The town. The beach. The forgotten.

That video?

400 views. Then 2,000. Then 15,000. Then 100,000. Then one million.

She went from @justola17 to a rising storm of change. She demanded movement, She cleaned beaches. She organised talks. She filmed fishermen with sun-leathered faces telling stories of bounty that no longer existed. She showed the graves of coral reefs beneath the waves. She showed what was left.

And people listened.

They donated. They shared. A new generation began to care. You’re generation needs to care. Not out of guilt, but out of solidarity. Clean-up drives surged. Local policies were challenged. Big brands were questioned. Her town—tired, hungry, forgotten—started to believe again. Because now, the world saw them. But Ola… she never claimed to be a hero. Some nights, the storm still came. Some mornings, she still stood at that pier.

But she listened now…to the waves, to the sky, to the steady pulse of an Ocean trying to heal.

Because healing wasn’t linear. But neither was destruction. Yet, both were still happening.

She stood at the edge of the pier, the salt-laced wind tangling her hair, the horizon swallowing the sun in a blaze of crimson and gold. The sea below churned, not with hopelessness—but with hope reborn.
This time, she didn’t see the end…

She saw the beginning.

Thank you for raising your voice for the Ocean, Darasimi!

Learn about how to submit your own Wavemaker Story here.

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Darasimi Ibironke

Darasimi is an elected member of the U.K. Youth Parliament with a passion for driving change and building positive communities. Through sharing this story, she not only relates to the experiences personally but also hopes to educate others through her writing, which is one of her passions.

Rada is a Wavemaker, thalassophile (Ocean lover), and passionate advocate for our Ocean.  

Her Wavemaker Story, an enchanting short film called ‘Blue Mind’ shows her deep love and connection to the Ocean, with the belief that to protect the Ocean, everybody must have access to the knowledge and resources to do so. 

Rada first heard the Ocean through a shell when she was very young. 

Rada’s name means ‘joy’ (and spellt Рада) in her native language, Bulgarian—a word she deeply identifies with. She currently studies BSc Marine Science in beautiful Cornwall, UK, but – as you can see in the film – she’s always been fascinated by the Ocean. 

Rada clearly remembers hearing the Ocean when she was about 9, through a shell her grandparents brought back from Cuba. But it was probably during her first visit to the Bulgarian seaside that she first became fascinated with the sound of the Ocean echoing from a shell. 

Carrying a piece of the Ocean in the form of a shell and being able to hear its voice whenever she needed it felt incredibly special for her.  

Over time, however, she’s learned that we all carry the Ocean within us.  

Now, by practising Blue Mind daily, Rada can hear the Ocean even when she’s not physically near it.  

Like when on a hot summer day – out of the blue – she spotted a Bulgarian filmmaker, Aya, whose work she’d been following on social media for a while.  

Rada gathered some courage and went up to say hello. This was followed by a lunch a few days later, also known as the start of their film ‘Blue Mind’. 

Blue Mind is a combination of Rada’s and Aya’s superpowers 

Rada and Aya shared their stories with each other.  

As Rada was telling Aya about her deep love and connection with the Ocean, Aya brought out her notebook and started writing in it. What followed were the magical words, “Let’s make a film”.  

The rest is history. 

Aya’s superpower is storytelling and Rada’s is forging a connection between the enchantment of the Ocean with the hearts and minds of people. 

This superpower is clearly seen in Rada’s initiative, the Thalassophile Project, too. 

The EU-funded initiative, the Thalassophile Project Rada founded is dedicated to making marine science and Ocean literacy universally accessible, especially to d/Deaf and visually impaired people. 

It’s based on Rada’s firm belief that to protect the Ocean, everybody must have access to the knowledge and resources to do so. Connect with the project and get involved on Instagram.  

Rada first connected with Ocean Generation in a Wavemaker workshop in 2022, so it feels especially meaningful to see this project, driven by concepts we celebrate too, come to life. 

There’s one thing Rada wishes everyone knew about the Ocean: 

“The Ocean is interconnected; it is one big Ocean without borders or barriers. This interconnectedness is a mirror for how connected we are. We are the Ocean and the Ocean is us.  

Our lives are intrinsically linked to the Ocean—all our actions impact it, which in turn influences our lives. I wish for people to understand that the Ocean is bigger than all of us—protecting it isn’t only about humanity, it’s about all life on Earth; it’s about all the creatures that don’t speak human, who cannot tell us how destructive our actions can be. It is about the future of all living things. I hope this perspective inspires the action we all need to take to preserve our Blue Planet.  

You all have a unique set of skills, experiences and values that make you one-of-a-kind. Your joy and enthusiasm are a powerful force. The world of climate and Ocean action is vast and varied, and your talents, your unique magic, have a place here, too. The Ocean needs us all. Will you answer the call?” 

Feeling inspired? 

Learn how you can use your unique skills and values (AKA: your superpower) to make an impact on one of our Wavemaker webinars, or start your learning journey with our self-paced, online environmental workshops. 

Learn how to submit your own Wavemaker Story here. 

Thank you for raising your voice for the Ocean, Rada!

Connect with Rada via Instagram or LinkedIn, or check our her initiative, the Thalassophile Project. Learn about how to submit your own Wavemaker Story here.

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Rada Pandeva

Rada is a Wavemaker, thalassophile (Ocean lover), and passionate advocate for our Ocean. She founded the Thalassophile Project, dedicated to making marine science and Ocean literacy universally accessible, especially to d/Deaf and visually impaired people.

Point Nemo, the Oceanic point of inaccessibility, is the furthest away anyone could be from land.

Smack in the middle of the southern Pacific Ocean, facts like how it is 2688 km (1,670 mi) or more from land on every side, puts into perspective how gigantic the world is compared to us.  

As a teen, the whole idea that we were a speck in the vast universe terrified me. This idea that I, despite the ability to think and feel so personally, am yet just one among the masses. Just another student, a boat floating alone in the middle of an Ocean of people. Insignificant.  

Now, as a young adult in a world spiralling at top speed, everyone tiptoeing around the brink of war, it feels overwhelming. May it be against the changing national ideologies, against corporate giants, or between humanity and the changing climate. This chaos that surrounds us seems to tower over, overshadowing any hopes to initiate change, for the fear that despite all the heart poured in, in the end, it would all be in vain. Somehow, the world, this absolute disparity in “power” that an individual can hold, has rendered many hopeless.

We feel helpless, because we care. 

This feeling of hopelessness is amplifying eco-anxiety. Whether I am just fortunate enough to be surrounded by people who care, or if we have somehow cultivated a generation who cares, is unknown, but the echoing of voices who feel this sense of helplessness, blended with anxiousness with the “unchangeable” direction we barrel towards, is loud.  

When you look at inspiring activists like Greta, who was able to venture into dangerous seas for what she believed in. She got on a boat, and made a loud bold statement, and they left a mark. Most of all reignited passion for justice among us. Like she said, the world needs more angry people… because anger is fuel. Anger not to burn us out, but to fuel something powerful. 

It’s easy to feel small if we compare. But again, just because we don’t take that leap of faith, is every small step we take as individuals “insignificant”? ”Powerless”? Especially as these “inexperienced” young adults? Society has forever drilled “Go big or go home”. All or nothing. Rags to riches. The list of proverbs that surround the concept of traversing the extremes is vast, and so is people’s mentality. Perfectionism doesn’t just plague certain people, it infests attitudes toward our abilities and capabilities.  

Little drops of water make a mighty Ocean 

In elementary school, when a classmate raised a hand and asked why do should he not litter when the beach already has so much litter. The teacher said, “Little drops of water make a mighty Ocean”. Every action we took to not make it worse. Every stray wrapper we picked.  Every drop makes a difference. I truly believed it in it then, as a young fresh mind, but over the years… somewhere along the way, the plot was lost to the intimidation of the mighty Ocean.   

We need to keep reminding ourselves that even just a single personal lifestyle decision – eating one meal less of meat every day, one less outfit bought from a fast fashion store, one blog written for Ocean Generation. Your drop matters, your voice matters. It makes a difference. As long as it was intentional and keeps being international. One drop at a time.

Going cold turkey on anything leaves us in withdrawal. Every intentional step to make a change is worth it. Today, I want to accept the waves, even the ones that barely tickle, because it takes quite a few hard-earned drops to make it tickle. Most of all, that tickle can still shift the tides. 

Thank you for raising your voice for the Ocean, Aditi!

Connect with Aditi via Instagram or LinkedIn. Learn about how to submit your own Wavemaker Story here.

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Aditi Thayyur

Aditi academically is a biochemist undergraduate student, who occasionally dabbles in writing.

As an Australian, I was fortunate to grow up taking trips to the beautiful Great Barrier Reef but in recent years, the reef has declined at an alarming rate. 

The Great Barrier Reef has faced a series of mass bleaching events, losing 29% of shallow water corals in 2016 alone. I was devastated to witness the disastrous effects climate change had on such a beautiful natural wonder. I became determined to use my unique model making skills to engage and educate others on environmental awareness.  

My name is Matisse and I’m currently in my final year at Arts University Bournemouth studying Modelmaking.  

One evening, while chatting about my ideas in a ceramics class, another attendee mentioned they had a contact at Ocean Generation who might be interested in collaborating and from there, my project was born… 

I created a fictional campaign, aimed at raising awareness and support for the Great Barrier Reef.  

The project has three parts: collectible sea creature figures; packaging; and advertisements featuring these Ocean critters that direct the public’s attention to Ocean Generation. The adverts carry the essential message about the importance of protecting marine ecosystems through providing financial support for critical research in rebuilding our planet. As a token of appreciation, donors would receive these quirky, cuddly critters as a thank-you gift—complete with custom packaging, of course. 

I’m a very illustrative maker with a passion for anthropomorphic character design. I love creating cartoony, expressive figures that captivate audiences and bring a lighthearted touch to serious topics.  

How the tiny Ocean critters came to life. 

I spent a large portion of this project designing the collectible figures component. I wanted them to be instantly recognisable as reef creatures—bright, flamboyant, and full of personality to spark curiosity.

Each character was meticulously crafted to be a playful and colourful representation of the reef’s vibrant inhabitants and to make people laugh and smile! Making these collectibles out of soft materials symbolises the fragile nature of our aquatic environment and conveys how easily carefree actions can cause damage.  

After six weeks of experimenting, countless trips to Hobbycraft and almost losing a finger or two, I completed my five collectible characters! As someone who is used to more hard-edge modelling in a workshop, I wanted to challenge my problem- solving abilities and push myself into completely unfamiliar territory. I learnt how to hand sew, needle felt, crochet, and many other techniques too.

Each character was crafted to be visually engaging and photogenic for the adverts, using a variety of textures, colours, and mixed materials. 

As the collectibles were to be gifted to donors, I designed special-edition packaging to house them. After several iterations, I settled on a giant life jacket concept— which ties perfectly into the campaign name, Reef Rescue. The packaging features the story behind the campaign along with links to Ocean Generation’s website where all the other amazing work this charity has done can be viewed.

Once the design was finalised, the artwork was sent to industrial printers in the graphics department. The printed pages were then laser cut into shape and each folded by hand. Adding a belt buckle and tear strip to open the box were the finishing touches! 

Next step: Seaside photoshoot with the critters 

With all my components assembled, I packed up all my new felted friends and took them to the beach to take photos for the campaign adverts and showcase the whimsical characters in a natural beach setting. 

This was also my first time using a proper camera that was not my phone to take pictures, so it took a while to get the hang of but, in the end, I managed to take some really high quality ones. Using Photoshop, I cleaned up the pictures and added a slogan, the Ocean Generation logo and some extra information too.

I even mocked up how the ads would look on real-world billboards and bus stops, giving a sense of how the campaign could work in reality.

Check out the plushies:

Throughout this project, I provided updates to my contact at Ocean Generation, Gemma Connell, who was extremely kind, providing me with feedback and useful links with information for me to use in my work. They made my project a thoroughly enjoyable and rewarding experience for me-thank you Gemma! 

Thank you for raising your voice for the Ocean, Matisse!

Disclaimer: This is a fictional student project created for educational purposes. Ocean Generation does not sell or distribute these collectible critters, and the Reef Rescue campaign is not an official initiative by the charity. All designs and mock-ups were made independently by Matisse. 

Connect with Matisse via Instagram or check out her portfolio. Learn about how to submit your own Wavemaker Story here.

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Matisse Howells

Matisse is a multifaceted creative with a passion for character and anthropomorphic design, dedicated to storytelling through visual work that sparks curiosity and excitement. Soon to graduate from my Modelmaking degree, she loves to spend time making funky personified creatures and then bringing them to life using a range of different materials and mediums. She spent much of her childhood visiting and learning about the Great Barrier Reef. It has a special place in her heart, so she wanted to use her unique skill sets to raise awareness of its deterioration.

Why we’re buying more — And why it matters 

As children, we go through countless items such as clothes, pencil cases, water bottles, phones and more. We grow out of our clothes and our phases, making the pace of change incredibly fast. As we get older, the rise of microtrends and the convenience of online shopping makes buying new items easier than ever.  

Globally, on average each person wastes 1.7kg of garments post-production. Even though a report in 2021 has shown that eco-efficiency has improved, its output has doubled this century. This cycle of rapid consumption satisfies our short-term desires but carries long-term consequences, impacting the economy, the environment including our Ocean as well as affecting our own sense of satisfaction. 

But there’s good news: small changes in our buying habits can significantly reduce waste and protect marine ecosystems. By embracing mindful consumption, we can care for our planet while still enjoying the items we love. 

Memories in the things we own 

In my view, the items I own tell a story of different stages in my life. For example, when I was a teenager, I had a large pink thermal water bottle that accompanied me to every training session, competition, whether it was football, basketball or swimming and even trips. It wasn’t just a bottle—but it reflected that time in my life. Like that bottle, I have always tried to use my belongings to their maximum.  

But in recent years, I’ve noticed how it has become easier to replace items instead of cherishing what we already have. This throwaway mindset has an environmental cost. Every year, over 8 million tonnes of plastic waste enter our Ocean, much of it linked to single-use items and unsustainable consumption patterns. 

When trends inspire change

In 2019, the VSCO girl trend became a cultural moment—characterised by oversized T-shirts, scrunchies and the hydroflask. While some saw this as a fleeting fashion statement, it introduced many young people to eco-friendly habits. The phrase ‘Save the Turtles’ became popular, encouraging the use of metal straws and reusable bottles. 

Since then, I’ve continued to carry my reusable bottle everywhere—not just for the environment, but because it’s become a meaningful habit that I know makes a difference. I’ve also introduced the use of metal straws for my family which we still use to this day.  

Incentives have also encouraged sustainable behaviour. Many coffee shops now offer discounts for bringing your own cup—a simple yet effective way to promote eco-conscious choices. By switching to reusable cups, it can reduce carbon emissions threefold, demonstrating how a small action can have a big difference.  

The power of role models 

For some, sustainable habits are inspired not by trends but by values. My mum, for example, has always brought her own containers to the local markets in Bangkok, where plastic bags and foam boxes are the norm. Although unconventional, all the shop owners did not have a huge reaction and simply used the box as normal, showing their appreciation through a smile. Her quiet commitment to sustainability and her ability to act outside the norm without making it seem like a burden has shaped my own mindset.

Because of her influence, I’ve adopted many small habits that I do without even thinking, such as: 

• Collecting parcel packaging to reuse, which has been very useful for selling things on Vinted 
• Collecting wrapping paper and ribbons from presents (although I used to tear them up to shreds as a child) 
• Bringing a reusable cup to a coffee shop, even when I’m using another promotion that doesn’t give an extra discount for it 
• Collecting plastic bottles for recycling, especially in places where recycling bins are uncommon 
• Using delivery apps that tackle food waste such as Too Good To Go (I’m on my 9^th bag and I will be getting a discount for my 10^th! ) 
• I try to repair my clothes as much as I can but if I’m unable to or don’t have the tools, I just ask around and most of the time there is someone who is happy to help. A clothing longevity research from 2013 states that repairing clothes can extend its lifespan by 1.3 years  

Sometimes, all it takes is one person leading by example. My mum’s actions have shaped my approach to sustainability and shown me that small steps can create lasting change. 

My sustainable journey 

I now shop mostly from markets and charity stores, where I enjoy finding unique pre-owned pieces while reducing my environmental footprint. From my experience of moving cities frequently, embracing minimalism helped me focus on owning less but choosing better. My rule of thumb is to only buy a piece if I know that it will become a staple and that I’ll still like it in a few years’ time.  

At university, I joined the Climate Action Team at the University of Bath, where I helped promote sustainable initiatives amongst students. I also joined the Sustainable Fashion Society, which aligns with my interest in slow fashion and reducing waste. 

Protecting our Ocean, one choice at a time

Our choices as consumers ripple outwards. The products we buy, how long we keep them, and the waste we create all impact our environment—especially our Ocean. By embracing mindful habits like reusing items, supporting sustainable brands and making thoughtful purchases, we can reduce plastic pollution and contribute to healthier ecosystems. 

Whether inspired by trends, incentives or role models, every step toward sustainability matters.  

As my mum’s example has taught me, small changes can leave a lasting impact—one refillable bottle, reusable bag or packed lunch at a time. 

Thank you for raising your voice for the Ocean, Ferra!

Connect with Ferra via LinkedIn. Learn about how to submit your own Wavemaker Story here.

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Natthanicha Luengvoraphan

Ferra, from Thailand, is a certified island girl with a deep love for the beach. She believes in everyone's power to care for our planet and hopes to inspire action through her story.

Whilst the term ‘doing what we can’ is ambiguous, it is the argument that people do not know what they ‘can’ do to make a difference that is contributing toward a negative impact on our planet. Educating people on what they can do is the way forward. 

As Ocean Generation have said before, ‘you cannot do all the good the Ocean needs. But the Ocean needs all the good you ‘can’ do. This short piece will delve into the responsibilities of us as individuals to make a difference in order to support the beauty of the Oceans ecosystem for it to thrive for years to come. 

Turning eco-anxiety into action

One major challenge facing younger generations today is the overwhelming sense of responsibility they feel for the climate crisis. Unfortunately, the climate change crisis has been developing for decades, and simply being aware of it cannot undo the damage that has already occurred.  

A 2021 study found that 60% of 16–25-year-olds surveyed experienced climate anxiety and feared for the future of the planet due to climate change. It is evident that people want to make a positive change to help reduce the climate crisis, but the question is whether people know what they can do to benefit the environment. 

I have always felt a deep connection to the Ocean and its breathtakingly diverse wildlife  

I have been fortunate to dive and work along the edge of the Great Barrier Reef while also exploring reefs in Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia and even the UK. The sheer abundance and variety of marine life in these regions is truly astonishing, seeing these places on a daily basis filled me with immense joy and passion for this underwater ecosystem that sustains our planet.  

The more time I spent in these beautiful environments, the stronger my desire became to give something back. However, I soon hit a wall— I found it incredibly difficult to make a meaningful impact when I was totally overwhelmed with information on what I can do as an individual to reduce my negative impact on the Ocean environment.

This led me to explore the route of focusing on what I can control to reduce my impact rather than focusing on the more complex matters that require more than just my individual effort.  

Now this is not to say that larger matters that require multiple people as well as charities and support from NGO’s is not important. But the focus of this piece is to promote small changes that individuals can adopt which will ultimately lead to a small ripple of change turning into a big wave.  

The power of individual action: What we can do to make a difference 

From this perspective I came to focus on 3 core ideas: 

1.Reduce plastic usage:
Many people have a negative association with the use of plastics. Millennials and Generation Z in particular, possess a greater awareness of the adverse environmental impacts associated with the use of single-use plastics. Educating people further on the impact that single use plastic usage can have is an easy method of encouraging change in individuals in order to reduce waste in our Ocean. 

Reducing expenditure on single use plastics and instead reusing shopping bags, purchasing reusable water bottles and unpackaged goods will decrease the amount of rubbish going in landfill and subsequently our Ocean.  

We hear too many stories of our aquatic wildlife mistaking a piece of plastic as food or a home or food. By purchasing less of these plastics this will reduce the risks faced by the animals in our Ocean.

2.Take part in waste collection:
Secondly, we have a responsibility to care for our environment. By collecting litter on our beaches, we can significantly reduce the amount of waste that ends up in our Ocean. Simply bringing a bag on your walk to collect litter can make a meaningful difference.

Regular beach clean-ups happen worldwide, checking social media or local websites will help you to find how you can get involved. It’s also believed that people who take part experience more hedonic values increasing positive emotion and thus decreasing climate anxiety.

3.Reduce unnecessary electricity usage:
Reducing our electricity usage is a crucial step in lowering our individual carbon footprint. A study conducted in 2011 focused on improving energy efficiency by adopting smart power management by turning off TV screens and lighting whilst not in use. While it may seem small, these efforts are essential in driving significant change.  

Incorporating these small changes into our daily lives can have a profound global impact. 

Just like a ripple that grows into a wave, individual actions can inspire widespread change. I want people to understand that every effort is incredibly important in sustaining our planet. 

Simply focusing on what we ‘can’ do will make a huge difference. When you act, you not only contribute to a healthier world but also inspire others to do the same.

For more reading on how to reduce and reuse plastic read this article from Ocean Generation.  

Thank you for raising your voice for the Ocean, Rossy!

Connect with Rossy on Instagram. Learn about how to submit your own Wavemaker Story here.

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Rossy Sheppy

Rossy has a strong passion for the Ocean. She travelled Australia working along the Great Barrier Reef on a boat and a part of her job was to promote education to young people about the Ocean and its importance as well as the diverse animals in the reef ecosystem. Seeing humpback whales breaching bought tears to her eyes. She hopes to help educate people on reducing their impact on our Ocean ecosystem so generations can live to experience the wonders she has.

That question might sound unbelievable, who would willingly harm the very thing that keeps them alive? But I’ve watched an entire community do just that.  

I grew up in Nigeria, in a house that backed onto a river. It was once a flowing, living thing, meant to bring life to our community. But instead, it became a dumping ground for pollution. 

Plastic bags. Broken furniture. Rotting food. People threw their waste into the river, believing the rain would wash it all away. But that’s a misconception, one that came back to haunt us. 

A river turned landfill 

The logic was simple: when the rain came, the flood would wash it all away. But where did “away” really mean?  

The truth is waste doesn’t just disappear. When it rains, the water doesn’t remove the pollution, it redistributes it. The river became clogged, struggling to flow. Eventually, the river by my home wasn’t a river anymore. It was a landfill disguised as water.   

And then came the floods. 

When the river fought back 

In Nigeria, rainfall isn’t a gentle drizzle, it’s an unforgiving downpour. I remember a storm so fierce that it tore the roofs off seven houses and stacked them onto an eighth. Water surged through the streets, carrying waste, bacteria, and destruction. Homes were lost. People were displaced. 

And yet, after the floodwaters receded, the cycle continued. The dumping didn’t stop. 

At the time, I didn’t fully understand why this was happening. Now, I do. 

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) estimates that 80% of Ocean plastic pollution comes from land-based sources, often through rivers like mine. This means that every bottle, every plastic bag, every discarded item that clogs local waterways doesn’t just cause floods, it travels further, affecting marine life and ecosystems far beyond what we can see.

And the consequences are far-reaching.

• Marine animals in the Ocean mistake plastic for food, leading to starvation or poisoning.
• Microplastics enter the food chain, affecting human health.
• Fisheries and coastal economies suffer, impacting livelihoods worldwide.

The power of small actions 

It’s easy to forget but every small action counts. 

Cleaning one gutter. Removing one plastic bottle. Stopping one person from littering. That’s how change begins. The river behind my grandparents’ house taught me a lesson I will never forget when we take care of our environment, it takes care of us in return. And the best part? It is not too late.  

The question is: What small action will you take today? 

Waterways like the one behind my grandparents’ house are part of a much larger system. What happens to small rivers affects bigger ones. And ultimately, all rivers lead to the Ocean.  

Studies show that over 75% of marine plastic litter items are accumulated from land-based sources. Land-based sources, including beach littler, contribute about 80% of the plastic debris. 

The effects are devastating. Beyond the impacts already mentioned, like microplastics entering the food chain and marine animals ending up entangled, coastal communities also suffer. Polluted waters affect fishing, local economies and tourism. 

And to think, it all starts with a single piece of plastic, tossed carelessly into a river. 

Taking back the river 

Every Thursday, my grandfather made sure we fought back. 

Armed with gloves, bags, and sheer determination, my cousins and I waded through the muck, pulling out waste that shouldn’t have been there in the first place. It was exhausting, endless work. Some weeks, it felt like our efforts were just a drop in the Ocean; we were making no difference at all. 

But then, something changed. 

People noticed. Some stopped dumping their trash. A few even joined us. It wasn’t a massive movement, but it was proof that small actions matter. 

The more I learned about environmental science, the more I understood that local efforts ripple outward. Cleaning one river may not fix the entire Ocean, but it’s a start. And sometimes, a start is all we need. 

Here’s how you can take action 

People often assume that environmental action requires large-scale efforts. But if a few young people cleaning up a river could make a difference, imagine what we could do if we all worked together. 

• Reduce your plastic use: Avoid single-use plastics like bags, straws, and bottles. Switch to reusable alternatives.
• Proper waste disposal: If you don’t see a bin nearby, hold onto your trash until you do. Small decisions prevent large-scale pollution. 
• Community cleanups: Organise or join a local cleanup effort. Even one event can remove hundreds of pounds of waste from the environment. 
• Educate and inspire: Share knowledge about the impact of pollution. Encourage friends, family, and neighbours to be mindful of their waste. 
• Support policies that protect waterways: Advocate for stronger waste management and plastic reduction policies in your community. 

Thank you for raising your voice for the Ocean, Rodiah!

Learn about how to submit your own Wavemaker Story here.

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Al-Ameen Rodiah

Rodiah is a student with a deep passion for writing and creating impactful content. Through her work, she aims to educate, inspire, and help others gain valuable knowledge and experience. Writing, for her, is more than just a skill, it’s a way to share important information and make a difference.

Whether we realise it or not, watching movies shapes our views. Movies may transport us to other worlds, but creating them has left an environmental footprint on this one.

In recent years the film industry has been undergoing a green transformation. In this article, I’ll dive into that with examples from popular films to share along the way. 

How did movies shape my view of the environment growing up? 

I vividly remember watching The Lorax and growing passionate about the cotton candied trees. The songs were catchy and meaningful, my personal favourite being ‘Let it Grow’ where the entire city celebrates Ted planting a seed, marking a new beginning. In the song, there was one line which really stuck with me.  

‘It’s just one tiny seed, but it’s all we really need’.   

At the time, I didn’t realise it, but that message planted a seed in me—an understanding that small actions can spark big changes. 

Another unforgettable movie I watched growing up was Finding Nemo. It was one of the reasons I first fell in love with the Ocean and marine life. I learnt about different species of animals, the food chain and the importance of marine conservation. 

Now, seeing the film industry actively start to implement sustainable practices is incredibly inspiring. Stories we tell on screen can extend beyond entertainment—they can raise awareness on important issues and inspire real-world action.  

Sustainable filmmaking in action 

The green set of ‘Avatar: The Way of the Water’  

Having the opportunity to watch the film in 4D, I was captivated by the visuals, especially the underwater scenes, but what impressed me even more was finding out how the film’s environmental message was reflected in its production. 

Most of the film was shot in Manhattan Beach Studios, where the sound stages were powered entirely with solar energy. The production also implemented water conservation measures, saving over 108 million litres (29 million gallons) of water, and was the first Hollywood blockbuster to serve only plant-based food on set.

By considering every aspect of their impact, big and small, the team ensured that sustainability wasn’t just a theme in the movie but a practice behind the scenes.

The most sustainable blockbuster in Sony Pictures: The Amazing Spiderman 2 

Spider-Man is my favourite heroes because of his charming humour and how he saves the day by avoiding unnecessary destruction (unlike, say, the Hulk). But what makes The Amazing Spider-Man 2 truly stand out isn’t just the action-packed web-slinging. 

This movie production embraced the circular economy where the set design team took in over 49 tonnes of recovered or donated raw materials and the wardrobe department implemented a textile recycling program.  

For special effects, the snow was biodegradable, and the atmospheric smoke was water based instead of the traditional oil-based smoke.

The eco manager has emphasised the importance of sustainability in film production because “the entertainment industry is one of the most influential industries in our society”

With that being said, I believe that her message is loud and clear: With great power comes great eco-responsibility.

How you can take action 

The film industry’s journey toward sustainability isn’t just for insiders, and it still has a long way to go. But as an audience member, you have more influence than you think. Here’s how you can make a difference: 

• Stream wisely: Streaming platforms consume massive amounts of energy. Avoid leaving content running when you’re not actively watching. 
• Support green films: Choose to watch movies and series that prioritise eco-friendly production. Some of my favourites include Seaspiracy (2021) and My Octopus Teacher (2020), which highlight environmental issues. 
• Get involved creatively: If you’re an aspiring filmmaker, adopt sustainable practices in your projects. Use local resources, minimise travel, and reduce single-use materials. 
• Look for green filmmaking standards: Certifications like Albert (a leading UK-based initiative) help productions track and lower their carbon footprint. Learning about these can inspire sustainable choices in your own creative work.

Filmmakers are not just storytellers; they are influential voices who can shape public perception and inspire action.  

By embracing sustainable practices behind the scenes and embedding environmental messages within their narratives, they have the power to drive real change. 

As audience members, we also have a role to play. By supporting eco-conscious films and making mindful choices about how we consume media, we can contribute to a more sustainable future. After all, the most compelling story is the one where we all play a part in creating a better world. 

Thank you for raising your voice for the Ocean, Ferra!

Connect with Ferra via LinkedIn. Learn about how to submit your own Wavemaker Story here.

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Natthanicha Luengvoraphan

Ferra, from Thailand, is a certified island girl with a deep love for the beach. She believes in everyone's power to care for our planet and hopes to inspire action through her story.

There’s a whole world out there waiting to be explored. It’s only natural that more people, like myself, want to go and experience everything our planet has to offer.

Whilst some may see tourists flocking to an area as a positive for the local economy, the impact on local wildlife is often forgotten.  

When I travelled across Australia and New Zealand, I was excited to immerse myself in the wonderful array of wildlife they have to offer. I wanted to be able to experience these places without harming the environment or exploiting wildlife. Choosing ethical tours was important to me, supporting conservation, local communities, and the delicate ecosystems that make these places special. 

In this article, I’ll be sharing insights about how eco-tourism can have a positive impact on marine life and offering helpful hints to help you make informed choices on your next trip of a lifetime.

What is eco-tourism?

Eco-tourism is all about traveling in a way that respects and benefits both the natural environment and local communities. It’s about making meaningful connections with the world around us while ensuring we leave a positive impact.

Whether it’s visiting conservation areas, participating in wildlife tours like snorkeling trips, or choosing eco-friendly accommodation, eco-tourism opens up opportunities to experience the planet in a sustainable and enriching way. 

Eco-tourism is also a fantastic way to spread awareness of conservation issues. People tend to care more about issues they witness first hand. Educating travelers while they’re immersed in the environment helps break down barriers and inspires them to actively support conservation efforts. 

One of my most memorable experiences was going snorkelling with manta rays in Ningaloo reef – an experience I will never forget. Swimming with such majestic creatures in their natural habitat was a true privilege, made even more meaningful by being guided by locals who prioritised the safety and well-being of all the wildlife we were lucky enough to encounter.  

The locals ensured we followed respectful practices, like maintaining a safe distance from the mantas and avoiding swimming directly over them to prevent undue stress.

The local guides shared their knowledge of wildlife and conservation efforts in the area, something that has inspired my own journey into the world of marine conservation. Since my travels, I have volunteered with various charities, from boat surveys collecting vital data to running educational talks helping spread awareness and inspire others.

Why does choosing ethical tourism matter?

Supporting ethical tourism isn’t about doing things perfectly – it’s about making mindful decisions. Many local tour operators work tirelessly to preserve wildlife and protect the planet. By choosing them you can contribute to conservation and sustainable livelihoods all while having unforgettable experiences in nature. 

What I learned about mindful travel: Tips to travel with purpose

There’s no one-size fits all approach to eco-tourism, but here are a few tips that have helped me: 

1.Researching local operators – Looking for local tour operators was a great place to start when I was searching for eco-friendly trips. Choosing local companies gave me the confidence that they truly valued and cared about the local community and environment often with a key emphasis on conservation. Checking reviews, certifications, and the company’s values was a helpful way to decide their practices align my own.  

2. Trust your instincts – Nobody is perfect, despite your best efforts. I experienced this when I visited a wildlife park, that wasn’t what I expected. If something feels off, whether it’s overcrowding, unethical practices, or harm to wildlife, don’t feel embarrassed to walk away. You won’t always get it right, and that’s okay. The key is to learn from experience. 

3. Support local business – I found choosing locally owned accommodation, restaurants, and tour operators a great choice. You get the best locally sourced food and the best travel tips. They are the people who care deeply about the area, and this allows you to support them directly. If you’re lucky, they often offer deals on local excursions, which is invaluable when traveling on a budget, like I was.

Leaving a positive footprint

Every small step we take to travel more sustainably adds up. While social media is a great tool for discovering inspiration and opportunity, it’s equally important to do your own research. Learning about wildlife and ecosystems through documentaries, books, or reputable online sources helps you understand what feels right and what to watch out for. 

By making informed choices, we can ensure that the places we visit remain beautiful and thriving for generations to come. 

Thank you for raising your voice for the Ocean, Amelia!

Connect with Amelia on LinkedIn, follow her on Instagram or learn about how to submit your own Wavemaker Story here.
Cover image by Will Nolan.

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Amelia Perkins

Amelia is a veterinary science graduate and aspiring marine mammal scientist, hoping to inspire and educate the next generation in conservation.