Participatory studies, conducted with local communities, have shown that depleted species and ecosystems have recovered in many locations around the world, supporting thriving ecosystems and fisheries, as in these photos from Geoff Shester, in Baja California #oceanoptimism

Many other large marine vertebrates have also increased in numbers thanks to protection, including #whales and sea #turtles.
All of this is in benefit of #biodiversity, but also on marine health, and human well-being
#GES4SEAS #MOOC #oceanoptimism

Studies have shown that thanks to this recovery, #kelp beds have increased and shoreline erosion has been reduced.
In this photo from Laney White @usgs-quakebot.bsky.social, you can see some sea otters resting in kelps recovered in this coast and providing multiple benefits
#GES4SEAS #MOOC #oceanoptimism

In California, sea otters were once thought to be extinct but an isolated population of about 50 was found in 1914.
Subsequently protected by laws and treaties, they have slowly recovered, as shown in this graphic from @usgs-quakebot.bsky.social
#GES4SEAS #MOOC #oceanoptimism

Also, it resulted in a recovery of #ecosystemservices, such as recreational fishing and bathing waters, which even cover the costs of #restoration.
This is happening in many other estuaries and coasts being restored across the world!
#GES4SEAS #MOOC #oceanoptimism