Youth represent over 1.5 billion people - the largest youth population in the history of humankind and nearly all, 98% are concerned about climate change. 86% have taken some form of action but only 6% have taken part in national or global policy processes such as the annual U.N. Climate Change Conference or COP.
This World Oceans Day isn’t about hearing from UN officials or leading scientists (though they’re great) it’s about sharing narratives of next gen people doing great things for the ocean and supporting organisations and individuals that are sparking the change.
Meet the next generation of ocean leaders…
Ullapool Sea Savers
The Ullapool Seasavers are a group of kids in Ullapool, Scotland who want to protect and promote seas and marine life locally and globally.
Their goal is to teach people what there is to love about the ocean from the smallest copepod to the biggest whale. They also campaign for cleaner oceans, help protect marine life and engage in citizen science projects.
Learn more about the work they do here.
The Marine Diaries
The Marine Diaries is an ocean science communication initiative that does things a little differently…
The Marine Diaries was formed to improve the accessibility of science by thinking about modern, innovative, and creative ways to inform the general public about important ocean life, research, issues, and conservation. Today, The Marine Diaries has evolved into a movement, backed by an online community of over 40,000 ocean advocates, supporting, engaging, and promoting ocean conservation.
Through articles, social media, online events, campaigns, and educational materials, The Marine Diaries is pioneering positive, fun, and engaging ocean science communication. Digital media (social media, video, and immersive media) evokes a stronger emotional response. Storytelling helps communicate complex topics. Used together, The Marine Diaries promotes longer-lasting behavioural change. It raises awareness of ocean issues, whilst being solutions-focused - offering its audience a way to create impact.
Learn more about them here, and make sure you have a read of their super informative articles.
Minorities In Shark Science (AKA MISS)
MISS was founded by four Black female shark researchers who strive to be seen and take up space in a discipline that has been largely inaccessible.
Their goal is to be positive role models for the next generation, promoting diversity and inclusion in shark science and encouraging women of color to push through barriers and contribute knowledge in marine science, toppling the system that has typically excluded gender minorities.
"We believe diversity in scientists creates diversity in thought, which leads to innovation."
Learn more about them here.
In collaboration with Blue Marine Foundation, we’re releasing a limited edition bottle so you can show your allegiance to this special group at this special moment in time. 25% of revenue will go to Blue Marine Foundation’s internship program, to support the next generation of ocean activists.
Blue Marine Foundation is working all over the world to improve ocean health and support communities that depend on it. They are also passionate about providing meaningful and engaging career opportunities for young people who are interested in conservation. With support from Ocean Bottle, Blue Marine Foundation will be launching their internship programme for 2022/23.
The programme will allow them to assist individuals who may not have worked in conservation, with a particular focus on building a more diverse team and providing equitable pathways into this exciting field. Blue Marine’s paid internship placements will run for three to six months, open to university students and graduates. The scheme will allow Blue Marine to support the next generation of conservationists, providing a springboard into future career opportunities and allowing young people to meet sector experts.
