The Marine Conservation Society is the UK's leading marine charity. We grew from the hard work and forward-thinking of a number of people who, in the 1970s, could see the harm being wreaked on our marine environment. We started out as the Underwater Conservation Society and became the Marine Conservation Society in 1983, led by marine scientists with a network of dedicated volunteer supporters.

Our role is to educate and inspire people to change their habits, opinions and preconceptions to help preserve our oceans for generations to come. We've treated our seas with too little respect for too long - too many fish have been taken out, too much rubbish put in. Now our seas are paying the price for the years of neglect and unrestricted damaging activities, with rising levels of pollution and species in decline.

Our work has resulted in the creation of marine protected areas around the UK, plastic carrier-bag charges to reduce litter and supermarkets being more aware of the need to stock sustainable seafood. We've made sure that more people than ever know the dangers of marine litter, especially plastic litter.

Luca Bonaccorsi (author) is a journalist, campaigner, economist and environmentalist with over twenty years of international experience.

Luca has investigated environmental crimes and disasters in various areas of the world such as Afghanistan, Laos, the Gulf of Thailand, the Gulf of Mexico, South Africa, Lebanon and Italy.

He has edited national publications, hosted radio and TV programs. He is currently the Director of Engagement and Communications at the Marine Conservation Society.