The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust has announced a new partnership with The Isle of Wight Distillery.
The distillery, home of Mermaid Gin, has committed its support to the restoration and protection of the Solent strait’s internationally important seagrass meadows.
Seagrass gets its name from green, grass-like leaves which form extensive meadows underwater. It is one of only three marine flowering plants in the world.
As well as providing a unique ecosystem for marine wildlife, seagrass captures carbon around 35 times faster than tropical rainforests – giving rise to its nickname as ‘the lungs of the ocean’.
It is estimated that the UK has lost over 92 per cent of its seagrass meadows in the last 100 years – which is why the distillery’s support is much needed.
Xavier Baker, Co-Founder of the Isle of Wight Distillery, said:
“Through our Net Zero initiative, we’re already supporting seagrass meadows abroad, but wanted to also have impact locally.
"The Solent’s very dear to us all at the distillery, so we’re delighted to be part of the #WilderSolent initiative.
"Having gone plastic-free two years ago and then achieving Net Zero, it’s just another step in our journey to being an environmentally-responsible business.”
In addition to financial support, the distillery team will take part in the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust ‘Marine Ambassador’ training scheme, where staff will have the opportunity to become Solent ‘Marine Champions’. This will involve actively supporting activities such as intertidal and seagrass surveys and beach clean-ups.
Dr Tim Ferrero, Senior Marine Biologist at Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, said:
“Enabling seagrass to restore to its historical levels needs a multi-faceted approach. Our Solent Seagrass Restoration Project is one part of the puzzle, but equally as important is increasing awareness and support for this incredible marine species.
"This partnership will help inspire others and create a movement of businesses and individuals acting for seagrass, as well as other marine wildlife living in these waters. Together we will create a Wilder Solent."
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