It is essential we all help to look after the health and sustainability of the sea. Formentera legendary restaurant Juan Y Andrea have been involved in preservation efforts for many years, and have some sound advice for keeping Posidonia healthy and alive for future generations.
1. Shrink your carbon footprint and reduce energy consumption
Global warming and ocean acidification are putting your favourite sea creatures and their environment at risk. Do you part by understanding your own carbon footprint. Bundle up or open a window; leave the car at home; switch to energy efficient lightbulbs.
2. Make safe, sustainable seafood choices
Do you know which fish are in season? Or if a species is endangered or being over-fished? Global fish populations are being depleted rapidly due to over demand, loss of habitat and unsustainable fishing practices. If in doubt – ask!
3. Don’t use single-use plastic products
There are more than 5 trillion plastic bottles in the world’s oceans. And that’s just bottles. Straws, cups, bags, diapers – these things can take 450 years to break down and the micro-plastics are absorbed into the food chain. Stop using plastics!
4. Help take care of the beach
Sounds simple, doesn’t it? But so many people do not follow basic rules on the beach. Take away all of your litter, make sure you put out any fires, don’t let dogs run wild where they can damage protected flora and fauna.
5. Don’t buy items that exploit marine life
When you go into the sea you have an effect on the water. Not all sun-creams are safe, and many of them pollute the water and have had a terrible, destructive effect on coral reefs. Avoid buying jewellery made from protected things like coral and tortoiseshell.
6. Be an ocean-friendly pet owner
Read pet food labels and consider seafood sustainability when choosing a diet for your pet. Never flush cat litter, which can contain pathogens harmful to marine life. Avoid stocking your aquarium with wild-caught saltwater fish, and never release any aquarium fish into the ocean or other bodies of water, a practice that can introduce non-native species.
7. Support organisations that work to protect the ocean
Many institutes and organizations are fighting to protect ocean habitats and marine wildlife. Find an organization and consider giving financial support or volunteering for hands-on work or advocacy. If you live near the coast, join up with a local branch or group and get involved in projects close to home.
8. Influence change in your community
Research the ocean policies of public officials before you vot, or contact your local representatives to let them know you support marine conservation projects. Consider patronizing restaurants and grocery stores that offer only sustainable seafood, and speak up about your concerns if you spot a threatened species on the menu or at the seafood counter.
9. Travel and use the ocean responsibly
Practice responsible boating, kayaking, and other recreational activities on the water. Never throw anything overboard, and be aware of marine life in the waters around you. Be very aware of where you should and shouldn’t cast anchor. And divers – take only photos, leave only bubbles!
10. Educate yourself about marine life10. Educate yourself about marine life
All life on Earth is connected to the ocean and its inhabitants. The more you learn about the issues facing this vital system, the more you’ll want to help ensure its health—then share that knowledge to educate and inspire others. Get involved by sponsoring an area of Posidonia for protection! www.saveposidoniaproject.org
Juan y Andrea & Posidonia
Since 1971, when Juan y Andrea opened their first small seafood place opened right on the shore, Posidonia has been what makes it special. People come from all over the world to this breath-taking location, recognisable by the iconic four big palm trees, and indulge in the freshest seafood the island has to offer. The sea is vitally important to Juan y Andrea, and they want to do everything they can to protect it, nurture it and make sure it is sustainable for long into the future. For many years they have worked with Vellmari and organisations to ensure that everything possible is done to preserve this unique place. We are proud to be associated with Juan y Andrea and this important work.
Juan y Andrea.
Playa Illetes, s/n. Formentera. +34 630 25 81 44.
