Sir David Attenborough teams up with Exeter experts

University of Exeter researchers have played a key role in Ocean – the new film and book by Sir David Attenborough, released in cinemas and bookshops on Thursday 8 May.

Described as a breathtaking journey into “Earth’s last wilderness”, Ocean explores the wonder and fragility of the world’s marine ecosystems, showcasing major scientific discoveries and the urgency of conservation.

Dr Casper van de Geer, from the Centre for Ecology and Conservation at Exeter’s Penryn Campus, led research for the book and brought in several University of Exeter colleagues to help shape the content.

“Ocean is aimed at people who want to know more about the current state of the ocean and its future,” said Dr van de Geer. “It brings together the biggest discoveries in marine science from the last 20 years, including work from the University of Exeter.

It’s been a privilege to work with Colin Butfield and Sir David Attenborough, who’ve brought so many incredible nature stories to the world already.”

PhD researcher Madi Bowden-Parry, who advised on the chapter about kelp, said contributing to the project was a personal milestone:

“To be able to contribute my knowledge to his latest book was a pleasure and a special moment for me. I’ve spent my early career focusing on ocean history and conservation, and even had the chance to chat to Sir David about it.”

Professor Daniel Mayor, who supported chapters on the deep sea and oceanic islands, said the project felt especially meaningful after recently completing a research voyage aboard the RRS Sir David Attenborough in Antarctica:

“His documentaries inspired me to become a marine biologist. It was surreal to work on a ship named after him, and now contribute to this book.”

Professor Callum Roberts, who reviewed the film script and advised on coral reef chapters, said:

“This film brings the collateral damage done by industrial fishing into stark focus, but also shows the incredible power of the ocean to regenerate when given space to recover.”

The film and book aim to connect audiences with the ocean’s importance to global survival, from the role of kelp forests and deep-sea species to the impact of overfishing and climate change – but also offer hope, highlighting what can be achieved through protection and restoration.

Ocean: Earth’s Last Wilderness is available in cinemas and bookstores from 8 May.