With Freyja Thomson-alberts, Ocean Conservation Trust. The Ocean Conservation Trust is a global charity dedicated to putting people at the forefront of conservation. For 25 years, we have been making people feel more connected to it through a variety of activities. One of these initiatives is the National Marine Aquarium in Plymouth, our centre for Ocean excellence that is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year.
With thousands of visitors each year, aquariums play a crucial role in connecting people from all walks of life with the Ocean in a fun and immersive way. Having close encounters with sharks, turtles and more fill visitors with imagination, awe and wonder, and leave them wanting to help the Ocean for themselves. However, the aquarium industry as a whole does have a difficult history with displaying animals in a way that is sustainable long-term.
The NMA is proud to be at the forefront of global breeding programmes, particularly with elasmobranchs such as sharks and rays. Some of our success stories include ocellated eagle rays, zebra sharks and catsharks.
Freyja is a Public and Community Engagement Coordinator at the Ocean Conservation Trust, specialising in engaging people with the Ocean through fun activities. Key projects she works on include linking people with the Ocean by accessible means.
She has a degree in Marine Biology and Oceanography from University of Plymouth, and is a trustee for Age UK Plymouth in her spare time. She has previously volunteered with Devon Wildlife Trust, National Marine Aquarium, and Whale and Dolphin Conservation.
This talk has been organised together with the Devonshire Association.
Cost: £3 for DA members and non-members, payment by card preferred.
