The P & M Group has committed to raising funds for two leading marine charities as part of a drive to help protect Earth’s aquatic ecosystems. A previous staff survey highlighted how concerned the Group’s employees are about deteriorating ocean environments and in response we are supporting the invaluable work of Project Seagrass and Mareco, the Marine Research and Conservation Foundation.
The announcement that Simon Tysoe, retired founder of S. Tysoe Installations, and his crew, One Distraction, were taking part in the ARC+ World Rally round-the-world yacht race led us to investigate how we might use it as an opportunity to support marine charities. Starting back in November 2024, they completed the first leg of the race before commencing the main event in January 2025. His epic challenge will conclude in spring 2026. To ensure we maximise the opportunity to raise money, The P & M Group has set up a donation platform, with all proceeds going to our chosen charities.
We are committed to help drive meaningful change in light of the sail, with the fundraiser also receiving generous donations from key stakeholders, including Winvic and Kingspan. All money raised be shared between Lord’s Taverners, as our main company charity, and the two carefully selected ocean charities:
Project Seagrass
Since 2013, Project Seagrass has been committed to conserving the world’s seagrass ecosystems. They form rich meadows supporting thousands of marine species, producing oxygen, storing carbon, stabilising our coastlines and keeping our ocean clean and clear. Since the late 19th century, it is estimated that one third of our seagrass meadows have disappeared. It is vital that the remainder are protected and what has been lost is restored.
Project Seagrass turns cutting-edge research into effective conservation action and education schemes, by collaborating with local communities and other stakeholders. A dedicated team of scientists deploys methods and tools to make saving the world’s seagrass a reality. To date it has planted 2 million sea grass seeds and coordinated the work of more than 3,000 volunteers.
Mareco – Marine Research and Conservation Foundation
Mareco’s mission is to facilitate marine conservation through collaboration between research groups, non-profits, NGOs, governments and local people. It is focused on the restoration and conservation of at risk marine megafauna species like sharks and rays. These species serve as umbrella species to the wider marine environment. They are under increasing pressures, including habitat destruction, pollution, climate change and overfishing.
The charity strives to bring people together for the common goal of allowing the ocean to thrive. It works with a variety of stakeholders to support scientific research, advocacy and policy whilst ensuring change and management is socio-culturally equitable.
We are using Simon’s trip to focus attention on the plight of our blue planet and raise much needed funds for our ocean charities. The crew will take the opportunity to collect data for the charities. This will prove to be a valuable addition to citizen science – the practice of public participation and collaboration in increasing scientific knowledge. The team will share photos and observations during their adventure to raise awareness about what is happening to our marine ecosystems and encourage changing behaviours. The photos and information will help the charities gain a more comprehensive picture of ocean life within vast international waters.
The work of these charities is more important than ever. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), nearly 10% of marine species are at risk of extinction. Climate change, pollution and over fishing are amongst the greatest threats. We rely on a healthy ocean for precious resources and to regulate our planetary systems and there is no time to waste in securing their future protection.
Our Staff Sustainability Survey highlighted that the effect of climate change respondents are most concerned about is deteriorating ocean environments. From developing a waste management strategy to identifying ways to reduce emissions, our Group is committed to helping the ocean thrive through sustainable practice. Supporting ocean charities complements those efforts.
Please visit our fundraising page to pledge your support – Charity Sail Around The World | Give as you Live Donate. Watch this space for more updates!