Ocean Conservation: Success Stories
"If we were logical, the future would be bleak, indeed. But we are more than logical. We are human beings, and we have faith, and we have hope, and we can work."
--Renowned ocean explorer Jacques Cousteau
Sometimes the threats faced by our ocean planet seem overwhelming. But despite headlines about pollution, climate change, overfishing, and other daunting problems, there is good news. Everyday, scientists learn more about the ocean, the creatures that live there, and the ways that humans impact it. And everyday that knowledge is put to work around the globe in efforts that protect wildlife and work towards restoring the ocean's natural balance.
- Dubbed "killer algae," the non-native seaweed Caulerpa taxifolia was successfully eradicated from the waters of Southern California after six years of work and millions of dollars. Image courtesy: Greig Peters
This coming spring, the International Marine Conservation Congress, a gathering of marine scientists, resource managers, and leaders from around the world, will take place in Washington, DC. The Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History will kick-off the conference on a positive note with a one-day public program entitled "Beyond the Obituaries: Success Stories in Ocean Conservation."
The event will highlight conservation efforts that are making a difference around the world and allow conservation professionals to learn from each others' successes. Dr. Daniel Pauly, a distinguished marine conservation scientist and Director of the Fisheries Centre at the University of British Columbia, will give a public talk to conclude the day.
Mark your calendar and watch this page for a preview of success stories that will be featured at the symposium.
Want more positive news about ocean conservation right now? Visit the Conservation Strategies page to see how scientists and leaders are working to protect and restore the ocean. Then visit the What You Can Do page to learn how you can help protect the ocean every day.
For scientists: If you are interested in submitting a marine conservation success story for the symposium in May, click here to learn how.
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