Seacology and Sylvia Earle

12% of America's land is protected by our government. But how much of the world's oceans, which cover 75% of our planet, are under similar protections? An astounding .08%--not even 1%!

This was one of the many fascinating subjects discussed at a reception this week with Seacology and Dr. Sylvia Earle, a leading oceanographer and member of our Scientific Advisory Board, to discuss the state of the world's oceans. Seacology Fellow Lezlie Johnson hosted a private reception in her Los Angeles home, and guests heard from Seacology Executive Director Duane Silverstein, who described how Seacology is contributing to Dr. Earle's vision of a global network of marine protected areas. 

During her presentation, Dr. Earle summarized her career as an explorer of the oceans--from her experience in the first all-female aquanaut expedition, to her 1250 foot dive in a JIM suit, the deepest dive by any woman. Since winning the TED Prize in 2009, Dr. Earle has been a leading advocate of ocean conservation. At Seacology's reception, she shared again her TED wish:

"I wish you would use all means at your disposal -- films! expeditions! the web! more! -- to ignite public support for a global network of marine protected areas, hope spots large enough to save and restore the ocean, the blue heart of the planet." - Sylvia Earle

Seacology's island conservation projects are working towards Dr. Earle's vision of a global network protecting our oceans and their species. Our latest projects include three new marine conservation areas, in the Philippines, Mexico, and Fiji.