Agents of Change
The Agents of Change project worked alongside coastal communities from 2017–2023 to help make Marine Protected Areas matter.
Agents of Change was a community focused initiative that sought to understand the importance of our seas to those that live beside them.
Our Agents of Change programme was part of the Marine CoLABoration, funded by the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation and co-funded by the LIFE programme of the European Union. The project supported coastal communities in driving action which benefitted everyone, including the ocean.
Making Marine Protected Areas matter
This film shows the Agents of Change project approach, using our work in Norfolk as an example. In the film, you'll see how the project is helping communities navigate discussions around fisheries management deliberations at the Cromer Shoal Chalk Beds Marine Conservation Zone.
There are hundreds of case studies around the world showing that Marine Protected Areas benefit local communities in lots of different ways. The designation of these areas of protection are often a point of contention for local communities, but we worked to break down those barriers and build support through Agents of Change. We tailored our approach at each location depending on local needs and aspirations.
We worked closely with local policymakers and authorities to communicate the asks of the local community. We also supported authorities in communicating effectively with local communities.
Learn more about our Agents of Change projects in Sussex and Norfolk.
Agents of Change was funded by the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation and co-funded by the LIFE programme of the European Union.
