More than 80 delegates comprising marine biologists, researchers, students, conservationists, and government officials gathered in Gansbaai for the sixth Southern African Shark and Ray Symposium recently.
When school groups enter the Save Our Seas Foundation (SOSF) Shark Education Centre, across from Dalebrook tidal pool, they are met with a recycling station and a beach scene complete with a facade of the colourful huts that are so characteristic of Muizenberg and St James.
The Save Our Seas Foundation Shark Education Centre in Kalk Bay, Cape Town. (Photo: Grant Atkinson)
The youngsters get to read the “eco code”, which mentions “manageable things that they can do in their lives, such as collecting rainwater and reusing water”, according to Dr Clova Mabin, director of the centre.
The eco code is intended to encourage eco-friendly behaviour and the sharing of knowledge. Mabin notes that “when your kids call you out on something, it makes you think twice”.