I recently returned from an inspiring journey with Greenpeace into the heart of the Sargasso Sea. As delegates gather in Baku for COP29 to discuss advancing the United Nations Ocean Treaty, I find myself reflecting on this experience and the ongoing campaign to protect the blue spaces around Bermuda and beyond.
My journey was not just a return to the sea, a place that feels like home, but a vivid reminder of what we are fighting for: the preservation of our oceans and the unique ecosystems within them, like the Sargasso Sea, on which Bermuda so heavily depends. This region is not only geographically unique but also deeply symbolic of the environmental and socio-political challenges facing small island developing states.
For the treaty to come into force, 60 nations, including wealthy, developed ones like Britain, must ratify it. Yet Bermuda, like most small island developing states, has no say in the ratification of the treaty; we have no power in the decision-making process that directly affects our future.
The Sargasso Sea is a vital hub for migratory species, serving as a unique ecosystem of breeding and feeding grounds for diverse marine species such as whales, eels, turtles, and various fish, all of which rely on the Sargasso Sea at different stages of their life cycles. This unique ecosystem is essential for supporting global biodiversity, underscoring the need to preserve the Sargasso Sea to maintain these critical migratory patterns.
Collective action
As a female, mixed-race, multicultural Bermudian activist, I view my identity as both a badge of honour and a profound responsibility. The Greenpeace ship Arctic Sunrise was a microcosm of global cooperation, hosting individuals from 18 different nationalities, each bringing unique insights and expertise toward our shared goal of preserving the Sargasso Sea. This diversity was a powerful demonstration of the potential in collective action against global environmental challenges.
During the expedition, I deployed a 300-metre hydrophone to listen to the mesmerising songs of whales and the chatter of dolphins. I observed breaching humpbacks, stargazed under the crystal-clear night sky, and even swam in the Atlantic while inspecting small Sargassum seaweed mats. These moments served as reminders of what we stand to lose without urgent protective measures. The vision of the Sargasso Sea as a marine sanctuary is both bold and necessary. Not only for global conservation but for recognising the rights and responsibilities of local communities over the natural resources vital to their survival.
Helping where it counts
Among our diverse crew was Dan Smith from the band Bastille, who joined us in support of the treaty. Seeing him in a more humanised light as he experienced the voyage, seasickness, and our island for the first time was enlightening. Curious about his involvement, I asked him why he chose to come to Bermuda and support our cause. He replied:
“Bermuda might be small, but its voice and vision could be huge. It’s inspiring to see how passionate you all are about protecting your home and the larger environment. I am here because Greenpeace invited me, and I desperately wanted to experience the mystery of the Bermuda Triangle, but ultimately, I believe in amplifying efforts that matter, and what happens here in Bermuda could set a precedent for global marine conservation. It’s about helping where it counts, and right now it counts here.”
Dan’s words underscored the significance of our efforts and how even the smallest community’s actions in environmental advocacy are important and could resonate globally. His support brought an additional layer of solidarity to our mission, highlighting the universal importance of our cause.
Bermuda’s unique distinction
As a British Overseas Territory, Bermuda’s relationship with international bodies often complicates our local governance and environmental stewardship, sometimes overshadowing the voices of our communities. Strengthening our ties with the Commonwealth is essential, particularly in addressing environmental issues collaboratively. Yet despite our ties, Bermuda, like most small island states, lacks the power to ratify international treaties on its own, even those that directly impact our national resources. This paradox of being a Commonwealth nation while having limited control over our own land and waters underscores the challenges we face in balancing global governance with local sovereignty.
Bermuda, though small and often overlooked, holds the unique distinction of being the only landmass within the Sargasso Sea. Despite our size, we are mighty and should lead the way in designing what the Sargasso Sea sanctuary will look like, ensuring it is properly conserved and reflective of our cultural heritage. Given our proximity and dependence on this marine ecosystem, we must assert our rightful place in discussions about its protection.
The concept of ‘resilience’ often describes the spirit of Bermuda and its people, yet I challenge this notion. Resilience has become a soft glove over a hard fist, masking systemic issues under the guise of strength and endurance. We must shift the conversation from enduring to preventing, from surviving to thriving. Small island nations should not be praised only for enduring environmental challenges; we deserve actionable support to address the root causes.
I am a strong advocate for global, intergenerational collaboration. The wisdom of our elders combined with the innovation and energy of youth creates a powerful force for environmental advocacy. Harnessing this collective power is essential to pushing for policies that promote true equity and justice.
An invitation to global action
The presence of the Arctic Sunrise at our city’s pier symbolised a call to move from local advocacy to global action. Bermuda has already pioneered conservation efforts for the Sargasso Sea, aiming to protect the diverse species that inhabit and migrate through it. To ensure the Sargasso Sea’s protection for future generations, we must expand these efforts in collaboration with the UK government.
Together, Bermuda and the UK can lead the global initiative to protect at least 30% of the world’s oceans by 2030, with the Sargasso Sea as a key inaugural site. Admittedly, the challenge is immense, but so is our determination.
In producing this article, and in support their work at COP29, the Bylines Network has partnered with Island Innovation – an expert consultancy specialising in innovation, sustainability and development for islands. Employing a systems approach that includes climate, oceans, energy, tourism, and conservation, our focus lies particularly with small island developing states (SIDS) and sub-national island jurisdictions (SNIJs).
Island Innovation | Connecting Islands for Positive Change
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