Justin Gilligan's Image

Justin captures marine ranger Caitlin Woods's moment of tranquillity in the world's southernmost tropical reef.

Seizing the short 40-minute window when tide conditions were right, Justin presents this lush forest of seaweed as an underwater Eden.

Marine ecosystems like this one are vital in the fight to bring the climate emergency under control and protect the natural world. Seaweed forests support hundreds of species while capturing carbon and producing oxygen for our planet.

Lord Howe Island, where this photo was taken, is often regarded as one of the last remaining wildernesses on Earth. The World Heritage site supports several thousand species of flora and fauna, many of which are threatened and protected species.

This untouched island paradise is beginning to feel the effects of human existence. Museum scientist Dr Alex Bond has shown how an increasing number of birds which nest on the island are ingesting small pieces of ocean plastic.

In fact, the birds that nest on the island are some of the most plastic-contaminated birds in the world.

How you can help

• Consider your impact as a tourist. Only visit places that have regulations in place to protect the local landscape, flora and fauna.
• Reduce your plastic use. Examples of plastic found in Lord Howe Island's birds include toy bricks, biro lids, bottle tops and wheels from toy cars.
• Appreciate and protect the marine ecosystems local to you. The preservation of ecosystems like this one are vital to help solve the climate crisis.