Contact:  Lori Arguelles               FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
          Nancy Golden                 9/19/98

Santa Monica, Calif. Coinciding with the annual international coastal clean-up effort, a pledge campaign was launched today that is designed to solicit a long-term commitment to care for the ocean. The Ocean Ambassadors pledge campaign was unveiled by American Oceans Campaign founder Ted Danson and is sponsored by the Department of Commerce's National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. NOAA has led public awareness efforts throughout 1998--the International Year of the Ocean.

"Individuals of all ages can make an important difference in the overall health of our ocean by the actions they take every day," Danson said. "Simple things like picking up trash on the beach, recycling and conserving water can have a big impact on the health of our ocean."

"The ocean is vital to life on earth," said Ed Cassano, sanctuary manager for NOAA's Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary. "This pledge will help ensure that our children understand the importance of being ocean-aware and sea-smart."

The Ocean Ambassadors pledge is featured in the last in a series of 30-second television public service announcements, debuted today by Danson who also narrates the spot. Individuals can learn more about the pledge and the Year of the Ocean by calling toll-free 888-4YOTO98 or on the Internet at www.YOTO.com. Those who sign the Ocean Ambassadors pledge will have their name displayed on the Web site.

Teachers nationwide are being asked to incorporate the pledge into their ocean awareness efforts. Students from Rossmoore Elementary School in Los Alamitos and Cabrillo High School in Lompoc were on hand today to pledge their support for the sea by signing the first Ocean Ambassador pledge cards.

"It is particularly appropriate that we unveil this campaign on this first day of the annual international coastal clean-up effort," Danson said. "Beach clean-ups are something each of us can do any time of the year. I'm proud to be participating in the clean-up efforts today and I encourage everyone to make the time for these types of activities."

1998 was designated the International Year of the Ocean by the United Nations, and in January President Clinton proclaimed 1998 as the Year of the Ocean. The goal for the Year of the Ocean is to recognize the value of the marine environment and to educate the American public about the importance of oceans in our daily lives.

"It Is important to also remember that the ocean's resources are finite," said Danson. "The commitment these kids are making here today is a clear and compelling call to all of us to pay attention to our ocean."

Editor's note: The text of the Ocean Ambassadors Pledge is:

Because I want to help ensure that the ocean is healthier for future generations, I pledge to:

Learn all I can about the ocean, including NOAA's National Marine Sanctuaries. Conserve water.
Recycle, reduce waste and dispose of trash properly.
Be considerate of ocean wildlife. I won't feed sea birds or disturb their nesting grounds.
Clean up the beach and leave it better than I found it.

Support or join a club that promotes ocean awareness.
Pass on my knowledge and encourage my family and friends to protect the ocean.

Because I want to help the ocean and all the creatures that live in it and around its shores,
I pledge today to do these things and I accept the title of Ocean Ambassador.

Signed ___________________________