Sussex Underwater

Turning the Tide

Saving our marine heritage

Sussex Underwater is a charity formed by a community group of divers and sea users in Sussex, UK. Their main goal is to raise awareness and document the recovery of the marine environment in Sussex Bay, particularly since an inshore trawler ban was implemented in 2021. They aim to showcase the resurgence of marine life and seabed ecosystems, especially kelp forests, which were significantly depleted.

Key aspects of Sussex Underwater include:

• Documentation and Awareness: They actively film underwater and on beaches to highlight the recovery of marine ecosystems and share these visuals to inspire people to protect the sea.

• Advocacy: They advocate for the protection of marine ecosystems and promote comprehensive inshore trawler bans along the entire UK coast, building on the success seen in Sussex.

• Community Engagement: They have a large online community where they encourage sharing sightings and observations. They also give talks and engage with the public, including children, to spread knowledge and inspire future generations of ocean protectors.

• Collaboration: They work in collaboration with partners such as the Sussex Kelp Recovery Project to provide evidence of natural recovery and support marine conservation efforts.

• History: The charity's journey began with Eric Smith, a local diver who witnessed the destruction caused by destructive fishing practices and campaigned for the trawler ban.

Sussex Underwater aims to be a "window beneath the waves," making the hidden wonders of the local sea accessible and fostering a love for marine life that encourages its protection.

You can find more information about Sussex Underwater on their website: Sussex Underwater – A window beneath the waves and on the Sussex Bay website. Further details about their charitable activities are available on the Charity Commission website.