Monday Smile: protecting critical ocean areas

South Africa will be the first country ever in the world to celebrate Marine Protected Areas Day, coming up on August 1.

The day will be dedicated to celebrating the conservation of critical ocean areas, according to supporting non-profit organisation, the Dyer Island Conservation Trust.

Along the South African coastline, there are 42 marine protected areas, which provide crucial safe havens for animals and plants in the ocean, as well as support of human communities.