A Month for Global Marine Impact: 71blue joins Fish Free February
A collective effort to uncover the overlooked pressures on our ocean and inspire meaningful action
LONDON - January 6th, 2025 - Fish Free February, founded by marine biologist and underwater photographer Simon Hilbourne, is now preparing for its sixth annual campaign. This year, the campaign is joined by 71blue, an ocean impact accelerator, empowering people and communities worldwide to take action for the ocean. Both organizations are committed to real-world impact and want to encourage individuals to cut seafood from their diet for one month, this February, and replace it with plant-based options.
We are experiencing a biodiversity crisis, with recent estimates showing that species extinctions are currently 10 to 100 times higher than the natural baseline. Overfishing and destructive fishing methods are the greatest immediate threat to ocean biodiversity. Yet, the global demand for seafood is rapidly accelerating and, according to FAO, “aquatic animal production is expected to increase by 10% by 2032 to reach 205 million tonnes”.
The message is clear: those of us with the choice need to consume less seafood and eat more sustainably. Estimates show that over a third of global marine fish populations are currently overfished; this pressure causes population declines in targeted and bycatch species, throwing the food chain off-balance and endangering entire ecosystems.
“Humans are taking far too many fish and other marine species from the sea. We simply must reduce the number of fish being caught. The best way to do that is to stop or greatly reduce eating seafood.” - Simon Hilbourne
By visiting www.fishfreefebruary.com/pledge, supporters can contribute to healing our planet and the ocean with such a simple action: exploring delicious plant-based recipes for a month.
“Partnering with Fish Free February is an opportunity to inspire action for our oceans,” said Mirta Lorenzini, Director at 71Blue. “Wherever you are in the world, small everyday choices can create real impact. Even when the challenges seem enormous, hope grows when we act together.”
About Fish Free February:
Through education, advocacy, and community engagement, this UK-registered charity strives to highlight the environmental impact of the fishing industry, promoting sustainable alternatives to protect marine ecosystems.
About 71blue:
71blue is an ocean impact accelerator, specializing in empowering people through knowledge and funding to translate innovative ideas into tangible solutions for marine conservation and resilience.
For media inquiries: Kayleigh Slowey, Marketing and Comms Manager - info@fishfreefebruary.com