Zoë Prinsloo is a passionate environmental advocate and founder of Save a Fishie, a nonprofit organization that raises awareness about marine conservation and plastic pollution. She has coordinated over 260 beach cleanups, visited more than 111 beaches, and collected 20 tonnes of litter. Her hard work and dedication have earned her a spot at the esteemed Helen Storrow Seminar in Switzerland, where she will represent South Africa and inspire future leaders to fight for a cleaner, more sustainable world.
Nobomvu, a loggerhead turtle nicknamed the “Red Lady,” was rescued from a ghost fishing net and diagnosed with osteomyelitis. The Turtle Conservation Centre invested two years in rehabilitating Nobomvu, equipping her with tracking devices to provide critical data for turtle conservation efforts. Nobomvu’s story serves as a reminder of the pressing need for a harmonious relationship with nature and the devastating impact of marine pollution on marine life.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is being used to prevent marine mammal entanglement in Saldanha Bay, South Africa. The technology is an early warning system for mussel farmers and triggers an emergency response protocol if entanglement occurs. The project is a collaboration between Vodacom South Africa and the World Wide Fund for Nature, and demonstrates how technology can support environmental sustainability.
Sea Walls: Artists for Oceans is bringing together international and South African mural artists to create educational murals promoting marine conservation in Cape Town. The weeklong program includes outreach to local schools, selfguided tours of the murals, and a coastal cleanup. The initiative aims to encourage ocean stewardship through visual storytelling and creativity while addressing environmental challenges. PangeaSeed Foundation, supported by the Save Our Seas Foundation, is commemorating two decades of marine conservation by adding to their collection of over 500 murals across 19 countries.
The Cape region is known for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse marine life. Unfortunately, the southeasterly winds can carry disoriented turtle hatchlings to the shores of False Bay. To promote marine conservation, the Two Oceans Aquarium has created a guide to help beachgoers take appropriate action when encountering these creatures.
A Rare Encounter: Dr. Tess Gridley’s Discovery of the Paper Nautilus Octopus and the Importance of Marine Conservation
Dr. Tess Gridley, the principal scientist and cofounder of Sea Search, an environmental conservation organization, discovered a rare and extraordinary marine creature a paper nautilus octopus on a seemingly ordinary day at Muizenberg Beach in South Africa. This discovery highlights the importance of environmental conservation efforts in protecting the rich biodiversity of marine life.
Living Roots SA is a unique indigenous plant nursery in Claremont, Cape Town. This nursery stands out because it is run by individuals who have been rehabilitated by UTurn Homeless Ministries, an organization dedicated to supporting and reintegrating homeless individuals into society. The project aims to combine environmental and social benefits by promoting the preservation of indigenous plants while providing employment opportunities for individuals who have been homeless.
Cape Town is a city that boasts an abundance of natural beauty, and its parks and gardens are no exception. From the iconic Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden to the historic Company’s Garden, these green spaces offer a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the region.
In March 2021, animal rights groups in South Africa were outraged over the shooting and paralyzing of a young baboon named Maggie. She was part of the CT2 troop, a group of Chacma baboons that inhabit the Cape Peninsula. The incident highlights the ongoing issue of humanwildlife conflict, where the interests of animals and humans collide.
In March of 2023, Jean Tresfon, a renowned marine conservationist photographer captured an extraordinary moment at Struisbaai Main Beach. The event was the successful release of Dané, a female raggedtooth shark by the Two Oceans Aquarium. The release of Dané was a significant milestone for the conservation efforts of the Aquarium and highlights the importance of protecting marine life.