The ‘Blue Gym’: What can blue space do for you and what can you do for blue space?

Abstract

The Blue Gym Initiative was created in the UK in 2009 to explore: (1) whether blue space environments might be positively related to human health and well-being; and (2) whether the public could be encouraged to preserve and protect these environments. Whilst the wider initiative considers all blue spaces including inland bodies of water (e.g. lakes, rivers and canals as well as the coasts and oceans), to date the focus has been primarily on marine and coastal environments. In this paper, we provide a brief history of the Blue Gym Initiative, and outline some of the research that has emerged to date. An important early finding was the observation that individuals living near the coast are generally healthier and happier than those living inland; much subsequent work has tried to understand why this might be. More recently we have begun to focus on how to promote pro-marine behaviours (e.g. sustainable fish choice, reduction of plastic use, avoidance of littering). This strand is still very much work in progress but highlights the importance of understanding public awareness, values and attitudes and the power of visualization in communicating the marine sustainability issues. We conclude with a brief discussion of some of the implications of the findings and future research needs.

Surfing and marine conservation: Exploring surf‐break protection as IUCN protected area categories and other effective area‐based conservation measures

“…A survey conducted by the non‐governmental organization (NGO) Sustainable Surf and the University of Plymouth shows that, of 500 respondents, 84% indicated that surfing raises their environmental awareness, due to both their greater level of connection with nature and their direct confrontation with negative human impacts on the ocean, such as pollution (Sustainable Surf, ). White et al’s () Blue Gym group mentions a number of studies that show a link between time spent in marine environments and higher propensity for environmental activism, with this being a primary focus for future research by the group.…”

Are we working towards global research priorities for management and conservation of sea turtles?

“…Neuropsychology, neuroeconomics and neuroconservation are areas to watch for emerging themes and breakthrough insights within this category, as applications of neuroimaging technology become more viable. Studies of the cognitive, emotional, psycho-logical, social, and spiritual value of access to 'blue space', wildlife, and biodiversity will begin to include sea turtles, their habitat, and conservation projects (Kuo 2015, Cracknell et al 2016, White et al 2016.…”

Significance of beach geomorphology on fecal indicator bacteria levels

“…They influence travel and tourism sectors (Houston, 2008) as well as the well-being of local residents due to the availability of low-cost recreational areas (Ashbullby et al 2013, Wheeler et al 2012, White et al 2016). In October 2000, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established the Beaches Environmental Assessment and Coastal Health (BEACH) Act (U.S.…”