David Attenborough's Ocean Film Comes to Portsmouth for Screening

The event is being hosted by the University of Portsmouth, Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust and the Solent Seascape Project and will be followed by a panel discussion exploring the challenges facing our seas and the work underway to help marine life recover.

Taking place at the University's Eldon Building on Tuesday 10 November, the evening will bring together marine conservation experts from across the Solent region to discuss the film's powerful message and what it means for the future of our ocean.

Co-produced by Silverback Films and Open Planet Studios, "Ocean with David Attenborough" reveals the diversity of life beneath the waves while exposing the threats facing marine environments, from destructive fishing practices to widespread coral bleaching.

The film also delivers a message of hope, showing how the ocean can recover when it is given the chance. It highlights the importance of protecting marine habitats and the potential for positive action to transform the future of our seas.

Following the screening, a panel of experts will explore these themes in a discussion and live audience Q&A, giving attendees the chance to hear about marine conservation and restoration both globally and on their doorstep.

David Attenborough's Ocean is a powerful reminder of just how much we stand to lose if we fail to protect our seas, but also of how much we can achieve when we give marine life the chance to recover.

Professor Joanne Preston, Institute of Marine Sciences, University of Portsmouth

Professor Joanne Preston , Professor of Marine Biology at the Institute of Marine Sciences , University of Portsmouth, said: "David Attenborough's Ocean is a powerful reminder of just how much we stand to lose if we fail to protect our seas, but also of how much we can achieve when we give marine life the chance to recover.

"Here in the Solent, we have an opportunity to turn that hope into action by restoring vital habitats such as seagrass meadows, oyster reefs and saltmarshes. These ecosystems support an extraordinary range of marine life and help our coastal environments withstand the pressures of climate change."

The discussion will highlight work taking place through the Solent Seascape Project, a partnership involving the University of Portsmouth, Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, Blue Marine Foundation and other organisations to restore and reconnect marine habitats across the region.

Barny Hobbs, Blue Marine Foundation's Solent Restoration Officer and one of the panel of experts, said, "The Solent Seascape Project is a testament to the amazing impact a community can have when they come together to support nature, by collecting seeds, scrubbing oysters, planting seedlings and other initiatives. Ocean with David Attenborough will inspire even more people to get involved in helping marine life thrive, knowing they can make a real difference."

Casey Spry, Assistant Marine Engagement Officer from Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, who will chair the panel discussion, said: "One of the most powerful messages from Ocean is that nature can recover when we give it the space and opportunity to do so.

"Our ambition is to restore more nature, faster, across our land, rivers and seas. Here in the Solent, our work to restore seagrass meadows is putting that hope into action and showing what can be achieved when we work together to give nature the chance to recover, creating healthier seas for wildlife and people."

The Solent Seascape Project is a testament to the amazing impact a community can have when they come together to support nature, by collecting seeds, scrubbing oysters, planting seedlings and other initiatives.

Barny Hobbs, Blue Marine Foundation's Solent Restoration Officer

The project is helping to revive habitats including seagrass meadows, oyster reefs and saltmarshes, which support wildlife, contribute to healthier seas and help coastal environments become more resilient to climate change.

The event is open to adults aged 18 and over, whether they are passionate about ocean conservation, interested in local environmental projects or simply want to experience Attenborough's film and learn more about the natural world.

Doors open at 6.15pm, with complimentary refreshments, information stalls and networking opportunities before the screening begins at 6.45pm. The panel discussion and audience Q&A will follow at approximately 8.30pm, with the event closing at 9.15pm.

Booking: Advance booking is essential as places are limited. Book your place through Eventbrite .

More stories like this.

/Public Release. This material from the originating organization/author(s) might be of the point-in-time nature, and edited for clarity, style and length. Mirage.News does not take institutional positions or sides, and all views, positions, and conclusions expressed herein are solely those of the author(s).View in full here.