People lie at the interface of policy and ocean conservation.

A group of fishermen haul in their nets in Kolkata. Photograph: Shibasish Saha, Climate Visuals
At The Peopled Seas, we explore ocean conservation through a people-centered lens, sharing the stories of coastal communities whose traditions and livelihoods are shaped by the sea.
Through personal narratives, interviews, and deep dives into marine culture, The Peopled Seas uncovers the resilience, challenges, and joys of life connected to the water.
Too often, marine policy is driven by ecological data alone, while the human dimensions—culture, heritage, and well-being—are overlooked or forgotten. When decision-makers focus solely on biological measures, they risk creating policies that are not only ineffective but also unjust, harming both the ocean’s health and the people who depend on it.
Here, we embrace storytelling as a powerful tool to illuminate the deep and complex relationship between people and the sea. By amplifying the voices of those most connected to the marine environment, we unravel these challenges and explore a future where conservation and coastal livelihoods thrive together

“No amount of natural science research will help us manage the oceans if we ignore the need for strategies that lead to evidence-based, participatory, and transparent management”
(Parsons et al., 2014, p1213)
Latest posts
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The Fisherman
The air is thick and drunk with mizzle. Down by the quay, all is quiet except for the fizz of LEDs lining the work sheds, a faint protest against the morning grey. No one is out today, they tell me—it’s too rough for the little guys. Newquay habour shot on b&w film – William Wakefield.…
Newquay Habour on b&w film by William Wakefield
Behind the Peopled Seas
The Peopled Seas welcomes guest writers. Please get in touch if you have a story to tell.
Skylar, the lead author and editor, is currently pursuing a PhD in Marine Social Science. If not working on her thesis she can be found in the surf or chasing after her border collie, Frank. Learn more here.

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