Orissa

The problems and potential solutions with respect to Orissa and the Olive Ridley turtles were discussed at a well-attended meeting with representatives from concerned constituents such as environmental groups, enforcement and regulatory bodies and fishermen's collectives. During the discussions facilitated by Greenpeace, fishery forums presented their case to other participants and introduced the possibility of identifying key areas with the help of the local community and promoting them as marine reserves, ensuring protection from any short-sighted development plans.

Fact-finding and Documentation - In an attempt to capture the extensive biodiversity of the Bitharkanika Sanctuary and understand better the phenomenon of arribadas, a multi-disciplinary team was involved in detailed research and documentation of Bitharkanika and mating turtles and formation of congregation patches. The most immediate threat to the Gahirmata Sanctuary- the proposed Dhamra port was highlighted as well. In a cyber-petition coordinated by Greenpeace, more than 1000 people pledged their support, calling for the concerned corporations and the Government to reconsider the project.

World Fisheries Day - Greenpeace participated in an event coordinated by the Orissa Traditional Fishworkers' Union at Bhubaneshwar. Given Greenpeace' global experience in protecting marine reserves, the Greenpeace team was invited to make a presentation on a community-based approach to marine reserves and conservation.