SOME 29 species of whales, dolphins, and the second-largest shark species in the world, basking sharks, are regularly found in UK

waters.

A few can be found off the coast of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

However, some of these magnificent ocean giants are now in decline because of decades of damage, and unsustainable exploitation of the oceans.

Whether it’s collisions with ships, dolphins getting tangled in nets or accidentally caught, or pollution working its way through the food chain – our impact on marine life has been devastatingly clear. Although the government has introduced protected areas in our seas, the reality is that the nutrient-rich places ocean giants like whales and dolphins need for feeding, breeding and socialising remain unprotected.

Some species have global migration routes, taking in thousands of miles and need a network of protected areas specifically to support them.

The wider health of our oceans is also really important for us.

More than half of the oxygen in our atmosphere is produced by seagrasses, microscopic phytoplankton and seaweeds.

The oceans also play an important role in regulating our climate by absorbing and storing carbon dioxide and heat.

National Marine Week at the start of August is a good time to reflect on our amazing marine habitats, and find out more about the creatures in our sea.

In celebration we have loads of events across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight throughout August, from seashore safaris and rock pool rummages to undersea explorers in a swimming pool, there are plenty of activities to choose from. Why not come down to find out what’s beneath the waves, and what you can do to help.