Celebrating our Progress in 2017
Photo: Kelly Martin
By Matt Coomer, Marine Conservation Institute Communications Coordinator
This year was an exciting time at Marine Conservation Institute and, through it all, the strong support of partners like Sand Cloud Towels made our work possible. Reflecting on 2017, here’s what we’re celebrating this holiday season.
A diver in GLORES award-winner Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park. Photo: Yvette Lee, courtesy of the Tubbataha Reef Management Office
In September, we awarded the world’s first Global Ocean Refuges: Malpelo Fauna and Flora Sanctuary, Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, and Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument. These exemplary blue parks show marine protection done right, and we’re promoting them to guide others towards the same success. We’re already accepting nominations for the 2018 Global Ocean Refuge awards, so tell us about your favorite marine reserve and we’ll let the world know.
Tile: Monuments For All
As the Trump Administration attacks our marine national monuments, our team is pushing back. We presented an analysis of public comments that showed overwhelming support for our blue parks and strengthened our cause. Since President Trump announced drastic cuts to the Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monuments, we have worked with lands-focused colleagues to raise awareness and show that an attack on one national monument is an attack on all. We’re also collecting signatures for a petition to the President, so sign on and make your voice heard!
National Geographic Explorer-In-Residence Dr. Enric Sala cites mpatlas.org data while presenting at Our Ocean 2017.
Our Atlas of Marine Protection (mpatlas.org) is keeping governments honest as they work to meet biodiversity targets. The Atlas works to track, clarify, and communicate marine protection where it matters most: on the water! Its analyses were showcased at international conferences like IMPAC4 in Chile and Our Ocean 2017 in Malta, where the National Geographic Pristine Seas Initiative used its data to support a call for strong ocean protection. We can’t wait to dive into a new year of ocean protections!
A Galapagos shark in Malpelo Fauna and Flora Sanctuary. Photo courtesy of Parques Nacionales Naturales de Colombia
The ocean is better off for our work this year and we’re excited to keep making waves. It is our honor to receive support from Sand Cloud Towels and, together, we’re tackling ocean challenges to ensure wildlife like dolphins and sea turtles always have a healthy place to call home. Happy holidays and best fishes for a bright 2018!