Founded in 2002, the Longitude 181 association has become a key player in the fight for the protection of the oceans and their inhabitants. Pioneers in responsible diving, their teams celebrate with you the 20th anniversary of this adventure!
For two decades, Longitude 181 has relied on three pillars: sharing, alerting, and acting. A true pioneer in marine environment protection, its International Charter for Responsible Divers is now the foundation of practices taught by centers beyond even French borders. A voice for protection programs, public awareness, especially of young people, creation of informative and educational materials, participation in events, engagement for the protection of endangered species, scientific programs, fights for ocean rights… The association has been on all fronts since its creation.
François Sarano, co-founder of Longitude 181, and Véronique Sarano, in charge of the « sharks & rays » and « sperm whales » programs will be the patron and matron of the 2022 edition of the festival Galathea, in Hyères, from November 18 to 20. They will be present with volunteers to celebrate with you the 20th anniversary of the association.
François Sarano will also be the patron of the Paris Diving Show which will be held from January 6 to 9 next.
The actions that have marked the history of the association and its current commitments
– In the Name of Sharks – Since 2003, Longitude 181 has been one of the first French associations to commit to the protection of sharks. In French Polynesia, Europe, Reunion Island, or the Mediterranean… They have tirelessly fought against the destruction of shark populations and, since 2012, of manta and Mobula rays.In 2022, it continues to act: mobilization for 10 years on Reunion Island within a collective of 10 associations (including One Voice and Sea Shepherd) to stop the massacre of sharks and excessive harvesting. Longitude 181 is leading a legal action in New Caledonia against measures taken to delist bull and tiger sharks from protected species. It works in partnership with Algerian associations Probiom and Greba to protect sharks beyond the Mediterranean. Finally, it continues to raise awareness among the public and professionals with the « No Sharks in My Plate » campaigns to encourage ceasing the commercialization and purchase of shark-derived products.
– Ocean Rights – This legal component allows Longitude 181 to provide clear information on this complex area and to denounce the shortcomings of current law, or its poor application. It also allows them to act effectively to defend ocean rights by influencing, within its means, the amendment of law, rules, or regulations to obtain a revision. The results are there: obtaining in 2007 a law prohibiting shark fishing and the trade of their products in Polynesian waters; involvement alongside other associations and obtaining a ban on shark finning aboard European vessels in 2012; renewal of moratoria for the protection of groupers (every 10 years) and corbs (every 5 years); listing of 2 manta ray species and 9 Mobula ray species in CITES Appendix II to regulate their trade and prevent exploitation incompatible with their survival.In 2022, the association advocates particularly for the ban on fishing competitions (via an online petition) as well as establishing a right to let live to challenge the basic principle: “the resource being infinite, one who claims the common good does not deprive others”, a principle now known to be false, as the resource is not infinite, but quite limited.
– Ocean Academy – Since its creation, the association has been present at shows and events to introduce the ocean to young people and give them the keys to understand and protect this fragile and wonderful environment! With the help of their volunteers, they present interactive conferences in person or remotely, classroom activities, as well as field trips.In 2022, Longitude 181 has received recognition from the Ministry of Education and can now intervene in schools and classes of all levels!