The biggest challenges:
“The biggest challenge is twofold. It’s first convincing the skeptics out there that the oceans are indeed in trouble, and then that we have the ability to bring them back to health through practical ways that benefit the environment and the billion hungry people around the world. They see the enormity of the ocean, its incredible vastness, and think: ‘How can something this big possibly be in danger? How could we ever fish it out?’ But the reality is that global marine fish catch is declining and has been since the 1980s. Ninety percent of the big fish are gone. These are the facts. What’s even more troubling is that we’re looking at 9 billion people on Earth by 2050, and we need to figure out how to feed them. What Oceana wants people to realize is that the oceans can play a big role in fixing this problem if we start better managing them in the places that matter most. We can put in place policies in the 25 countries that bring in 75 percent of the world’s global marine fish catch that allow fish stocks to recover and the oceans to heal and let us feed 700 million people a day in a responsible, sustainable way. It’s not only possible, but it’s practical. It’s a challenge to get this message across, but it’s really a beautiful sentiment. Our oceans have an enormous potential to help humanity, so we must protect them.”
How you can help:
“Get involved. People under- estimate their ability to help make change. When it comes to the oceans, you can make a huge difference by logging on to Oceana.org and becoming an e-activist. Or contact your congressmen and let them know the ocean issues that matter most to you. Whatever people choose to do, it must be done with a light heart because this is tough work. There’s a lot left to accomplish, but it’s important to remember that the problems facing our oceans can be fixed. It’s not too late to save the oceans and feed the world.”
Other celebrities who love the sea … and what they’re doing to help save it.
Prince Albert II?of Monaco
His foundation champions the protection of the environment and the promotion of sustainable development on a global scale.
Adrian Grenier
He supports preservation of marine protection and raising awareness about the endangered bluefin tuna. He is an active supporter of Oceana (see above).
Jack Johnson
An avid environmentalist and protector of ocean wildlife, he has, amongst other projects, supported the Australian Marine Conservation Society.
James Cameron
Diver and filmmaker Cameron formed Earthship Productions to make documentary films about ocean exploration and conservation. He’s led eight ocean explorations.
Leonardo DiCaprio
The actor is an honorary board member of the Reef Check Foundation and funds environmental action via his own foundation.
Watch “The End of the Line,” Blue Marine’s documentary on ocean health, for free here
