#1  Introduction

At the heart of South Africa's rugged ocean shores, new ways of constructing knowledge are taking shape, inspired by centuries of Indigenous wisdom and the intricate dance between culture and nature. The Indigenous Marine Innovations for Sustainable Environments and Economies (IMIsEE) project represents a collaborative effort to tackle the pressing issues facing our coastal habitats. This trans-disciplinary collaboration brings together a diverse team of researchers, community members, and university scholars, all united by a singular mission: to sustainably regenerate South Africa's shoreline.

To showcase this innovative research, IMIsEE is using "sonic postcards." These are MP4 files, combining soundscapes with visual elements, designed to be shared widely via email, podcasts, and social media. Lasting one to two minutes, these postcards are crafted from a rich tapestry of recorded sounds, encompassing the natural echoes of the environment, human-made noises, and spoken narratives. This method not only captures the essence of the project's locale but also serves as a vibrant medium for storytelling and conservation awareness.