Hope Spot project in excellent hands
THE marine biologist who chairs the Algoa Bay Hope Spots committee is looking forward to the launch of the environmental project in Nelson Mandela Bay next week. NMMU zoology lecturer and research assistant Dr Lorien Pichegru, 34, and her team are determined to change the face of the coast, raising awareness on how to protect and conserve the natural environment, partly through activities the whole family can take part in.
“The point is to make people enjoy spending time at the coast. We are all very lucky to live in a hope spot, so we all have the responsibility for it,” Pichegru said.
Hope spots are special conservation areas and Port Elizabeth is home to one of several in the country.
Born on the island of Reunion, Pichegru lived in France in her youth before “chasing the sea” and settling in South Africa 10 years ago. Married to fellow sea lover Lloyd Edwards, of Raggy Charters eco-tours, she said growing up in a coastal area later informed her decision to pursue marine studies.
Marine biology is a sub-focus of marine science, which covers areas like coastal research management, policy making, oceanography, ocean modelling and forecasting.
Typical routines in such work include forecasts in relation to the oceans as well as analysis of the sea and its interaction with the land, atmosphere and sea floors.
“Growing up, my family was quite conscious about things like conservation and as young people we spent most of our time by the beach, so it was logical to follow this field.
“At a time where there is not much nature left in the world, people there were more in touch with nature – something I also love about South African people – they are conscious about the back yard – although there can never be enough efforts done as we keep on exploiting our environment in unsustainable ways.”
She said she strongly opposed fish farming. “It only benefits the fishing industry owners, who often do not invest the money they make back into the local population in the form of employment.”
Pichegru cautioned that although marine biology was an important career, “it’s a long process. What I like about my career is how you keep learning as you research.
“You don’t get bored!”