WHAT TO DO IF YOU FIND A MARINE ANIMAL IN TROUBLE?
BEST ENVIRONMENTAL PRACTICES IN MARINAS, SPORTS PORTS AND YACHT CLUBS FOR THE PROTECTION OF MARINE FLORA AND FAUNA.
THE MEDITERRANEAN, A SEA OF LIFE
The Mediterranean Sea is home to a multitude of cetaceans, turtles, and sharks of great ecological value, which maintain the balance of the ecosystem. Some of these species are seriously threatened due to human impacts.
PROTOCOL FOR DEALING WITH MARINE FAUNA IN TROUBLE OR DEAD
It is important to respect and know:
While sailing, you may encounter animals in distress, sick, injured, or even dead. Your help is essential to protecting marine wildlife.
Call 112 to activate the Valencian Community Stranding Network. The technical rescue team from the Oceanographic Foundation and the University of Valencia will guide you through the next steps.
Do not enter the water to assist or remove nets attached to the animal. Keep your distance and do not feed or handle the animal.
Record as much information as possible: photos, videos, time, position, and direction of the specimen. Try to identify the species, approximate size or weight, and the animal's behavior.
Reporting or rescuing live or dead marine wildlife is important for conservation.
GOOD ENVIRONMENTAL PRACTICES IN THE PORT
Manage solid waste responsibly. Store and dispose of it in designated locations.
Avoid pouring liquid waste into the dock waters. Use designated cleanup points.
Be careful when handling oil and hydrocarbons, as they are toxic to marine wildlife.
Use tin-free antifouling paint to avoid environmental impacts.
GOOD ENVIRONMENTAL PRACTICES ON BOARD
Don't throw waste into the sea and respect anchoring restrictions. Reduce your boat's speed and know the regulations in marine protected areas.
Practice aquatic activities sustainably and responsibly. If you fish for sport, do so sustainably and avoid using stainless steel or lead hooks.
Download the "Projecte Posidonia" application from the Oceanográfic Foundation for responsible anchoring.
GOOD ENVIRONMENTAL PRACTICES IN MARINE WILDLIFE SIGHTINGS
Respect cetacean protection zones and avoid physical contact. Do not feed or litter. Do not use sonar systems and maintain a gentle approach.
Encourage other boaters to practice good environmental practices to protect the marine environment. We are all responsible for its conservation.
This is a message from the Conservation Area team at the Oceanogràfic Foundation (VALENCIA).
