If you’ve ever dipped your toes in the chilly waters of the UK’s coastline, you’ll know there’s something magical about the sea. Whether it's the serene beauty of a sunrise over the water or the mysterious allure of the underwater world, our oceans are truly treasures to be protected. That’s where Sea-Changers comes in—a small but mighty charity making a big splash in marine conservation.
A Sea of Achievements
In just 12 years, Sea-Changers has made an incredible impact, funding over 320 projects across the UK, giving £398,000 in grants, and installing 27 coastal fountains. Their mission? To tackle the root causes of marine conservation challenges, prevent harm to our coastal and marine environments, and expand our understanding of the threats our oceans face. And they’ve done it all with the help of passionate volunteers, generous donors, and innovative partnerships.
“We could not have achieved any of the marine conservation outcomes that we have without businesses like Mike’s helping us,” says Rachel Lopata, Co-Founder of Sea-Changers.
Making Waves with Every Project
Photo by Atlantic Diving
The work of Sea-Changers spans the length and breadth of the UK, supporting projects that range from cutting-edge research to grassroots community action. Take, for example, the Southsea Sub Aqua Club have received a grant to gather quality citizen science data at subtidal sites in Langstone & Chichester harbours to inform a greater understanding of the underwater habitats & species, support evidence-based management & provide a baseline to measure change. Project aims:
- Promote marine citizen science
- Train 10 divers in Seasearch & Underwater Survey techniques
- Conduct 24 Seasearch surveys in Langstone & Chichester harbours
- Collect data on biotopes, UK Priority Species & Habitats, Non-Native Species, sediment & water quality data
- Identify sites for future monitoring
- Research history of wrecks
- Share data with stakeholders & wider public
Photo by Project Baseline
Meanwhile, up in Norfolk, the MCNAG Project grant is going towards the purchase of a refurbished boat to allow the group to conduct surveys and ghost hear recovery, resulting in:
- Reduction of ghost gear on reef – measurable against yearly litter recording. At present 80% of winter litter is fishing related, mainly whole pots and ropes.
- Reduction of damage to reef – measurable in reduced recording of fresh chalk damage on dive surveys (part of current Seasearch recording protocol)
- Quantify rate of chalk damage – linear recession of rugged features. A parameter missing from recording by agencies and NGOs.
Royal Recognition for Ocean Heroes
But it’s not just the projects that are getting attention—Sea-Changers’ founders, Helen Webb and Rachel Lopata, recently received some royal recognition of their own. In June, they were awarded MBEs for their services to marine conservation at Buckingham Palace by none other than The Princess Royal. The awards are a testament to the tireless efforts of the entire Sea-Changers team, past and present. As Helen said, “This recognition spurs us on in our ambitions to further expand the work Sea-Changers is doing.”
What’s Next for Sea-Changers?
With so much accomplished, you might think Sea-Changers would take a moment to catch their breath—but they’re just getting started. With plans to support even more local communities in their efforts to protect and preserve our marine environments, the tide is still rising on their ambitions.
So, whether you’re a diver, a snorkler, or someone who just loves a good beach day, there’s a way for you to be part of this sea change. Dive in, support a project, or simply spread the word—every little action helps protect the oceans we all treasure.
Commitment to the Environment
Mike's Dive Store is a Sea-Changers partner, committed to UK marine conservation activities and passionate about giving something back to the seas they love. Over the last 12 years Mike's has donated to the charity, amounting to just under £20,000! This has been enabled by you the customer choosing Mike’s Dive store as your preferred online store for all your scuba and snorkelling needs and for this we’d like to say a Big Thank You!
“We chose Sea-Changers to be our charity of choice purely based on the enthusiasm of Helen and Rachel. Too often with charities nowadays, much of the money is squandered and does not actually reach the intended purpose or people. Mike’s wanted to choose one where we felt people were genuinely involved, interested, and made sure the money got to the intended purpose. With Helen and Rachel, we felt that was definitely the case. They should be proud of what they have done, especially whilst holding down other jobs,” said Steve Brown, Owner of Mike’s Dive Store.
If you would like to make your own donation to Sea-Changers click here.
To learn more about the latest round of projects funded by Sea-Changers, visit their website. Who knows? The next big wave in marine conservation might just start with you!
