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We would like to thank
Wolcott Henry,
National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA),
National Geographic,
and the Marine PhotoBank
for the use of images.
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Ocean Greetings! |
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The Ocean Project provides this e-newsletter as a free service to 2,278 contacts at zoos, aquariums, museums, conservation organizations, schools, agencies, and others involved in our Partner network. We hope you will find it inspiring and useful in your work and life.
Please forward widely and encourage colleagues and friends to subscribe!
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New Wind in the Sails for Environmental Education! Help keep it that way |
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Good News!
Another environmental success story is in the making. In the past issues of Blue Planet News to Use we urged our Partners to join in the battle to increase environmental education funding and improve the federal legislation commonly known as No Child Left Behind.
We are happy to report that thanks to the help of many of you and others, the No Child Left Inside Act of 2007 has now been introduced in both the House (H.R. 3036) and Senate (S. 1981) - and key portions of it have even been added to the House's first draft of the huge new version of No Child Left Behind. The increased emphasis on environmental education in public schools provided by this remarkable bill would encourage far more school field trips to zoos and aquaria, among other things. The bill's champions on the Hill are optimistic about its chances for success and now really need your help to maximize these chances.
- Please get the word out to your members and constituents to ask them to contact their Members of Congress ASAP. Draft emails, action alerts, and letters to Congress are available if you'd like to use them from the Campaign for Environmental Literacy . Or you can simply send your members to www.FundEE.org/campaigns/nclb/ where they can easily learn about and take action to support this bill.
Time is short - Congress expects to act on NCLB within the next two months. Contact Jim Elder, Campaign for Environmental Literacy, at elder@FundEE.org or 978-526-7768 with questions or for any help with getting the word out.
We are also happy to report that the U.S. Senate and House have jointly increased funding for environmental education by $40 million, distributed among several agencies; the bulk of which will go to climate change education.
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A Mission to Planet Ocean |
We expect that many Ocean Project Partners will be very interested in getting further involved in an upcoming "Mission to Planet Ocean." As Dr. John R. Delaney, oceanographer and professor at the University of Washington, describes the laying of about 800 miles of fiber-optic cables off the Pacific Northwest coast, "This is a NASA-scale mission to basically enter the Inner Space, and to be there perpetually. What we're doing is bringing the ocean to the world."
Dr. Delaney is referring to the Ocean Observatories Initiative (OOI). The OOI will revolutionize oceanography, allowing scientists to study the ocean through an extensive network of cables, high-tech data collection devices, robots, and high-definition cameras. The network of ocean sensors will be connected to the Internet allowing scientists and the public to access the data. For the first time in its history, oceanography will become a real-time science. Instead of spending weeks to months at sea gathering data and several more weeks analyzing the data, with OOI, scientists will be able to sit in their labs and view the ocean in motion and download specific data. Alexandra Isern of the National Science Foundation proudly said, "This is really going to transform not only the way scientists do science, but also the way the public can be involved."
The OOI sets out to accomplish some major and important goals. Better understanding the ocean's role in climate change and carbon storage, and how ocean processes affect life on land is one of the central issues. Other foci are the future of global fish populations and the causes of destructive events such as tsunamis. Also at the heart of the OOI is bringing the ocean to the people, or in other words, getting scientists and the public more involved with ocean issues by making the ocean more personal.
The brainchild of Dr. Delaney and many other oceanographers, the long envisioned OOI is becoming a reality with funding to the tune of $331 million from the National Science Foundation. Construction of the underwater observatory is set to begin in 2009. Stand-alone deep-water monitoring stations will be scattered along select coasts around the globe with a focus on the hard to reach high-latitude areas. Oceanographers are hoping future funding will allow for a more extensive global network reaching areas like the Indian Ocean. In American waters, monitoring stations will be set up off the coast of Oregon to study upwelling and 'dead zones'; off Martha's Vineyard to study the interaction of the warm Gulf Stream with colder waters from Canada (a mixing process that effects carbon storage); and across the Juan de Fuca tectonic plate. Some other institutions heavily involved in the OOI include Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, and the College of Oceanic and Atmospheric Sciences at Oregon State University.
Story adapted from New York Times article by William Yardley
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New Exotic Life Discovered Deep Down Under |
Looks like something from outer space? It's actually something from remote locations in the deep ocean! This tiny shrimp-like creature called Phronima is among the many species cataloged during a recent exploration of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. The strange transparent nature of the creature is a disguise mechanism to escape predation.
The Mid-Atlantic Ridge is a submerged mountain range stretching 15,000 km (9,300 mi) in a north-south direction in the Atlantic Ocean. An international team of 31 researchers recently explored the Ridge and recorded several other recently discovered rare and exotic deep sea creatures, and at least one completely new species. Exploring the area is "like going to a new country" remarked one researcher.
The expedition was coordinated by the MAR-ECO project and the Census of Marine Life program. More photos of recently discovered deep sea creatures can be viewed through the National Geographic's website.
Story adapted from National Geographic News |
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Fishing the Sea Dry |
As part of The Ocean Project's efforts to help our Partners become more familiar with ocean conservation information and issues, and provide connections with some of the best visual media sites available, we would like to reiterate how the Marine Photobank website can be a great resource for your organization. Images such as this can be used for educational outreach, exhibits and other informational purposes. You can visit their website for similar pictures related to overfishing, as well as a host of other ocean issues.
Bottom trawling is one of the world's most destructive fishing methods. The action of huge weighted nets sweeping the ocean floor results in habitat destruction, harm to seafloor creatures, tons of wasted by-catch, and huge sediment plumes, "mudtrails," in the water column to the extent that the ocean appears like land.
Marine Photobank member, Dr. Kyle Van Houtan found this satellite image, a vivid illustration of the impact of bottom trawling. Dr. Houtan remarked, "Here the analogy of trawling with terrestrial ploughing is compelling, with the vessels forming parallel rows like combine harvesters in a vast field of grain."
Van Houtan and world-renowned fishery scientist Dr. Daniel Pauly published an article in Nature magazine spurring worldwide attention to the issue. Currently, Houtan and Pauly are collaborating to quantify the sedimentation problem associated with bottom trawling. It is already known that bottom trawling is the greatest source of man-made suspended solid pollution in the ocean.
Bottom trawling is used in catching shrimp and other species such as roundnose grenadier and the onion-eye or roughhead grenadier. Remember, you and your organization can help promote sustainable global fisheries by making sure you're avoiding endangered species or species/specimens caught through destructive means. Use these region specific guides to sustainable seafood consumption to make the best seafood choices and bookmark this page to keep informed on campaigns against deep trawling and ways you can take action.
Story adapted from Marine PhotoBank Bulletin September 2007, Vol. 3, No. 1 |
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Galapagos Shark Endangered |
Does this guy look familiar? He should - it's the Galapagos shark, aka "the grey reef whaler," featured on the 2008 Seas the Day conservation education calendar cover.
This awesome creature, listed on the IUCN Red List as "Near Threatened," is now one leap closer to becoming "Threatened" with Ecuadorian President Rafael Correa's recent decree to legalize the sale and export of shark fins caught by accidental fishing outside Galapagos territorial waters.
Shark fins are in high demand in Asia as an aphrodisiac and culinary delicacy. Ecuadorian conservationists, like Ricardo Buitron of Ecological Action, fear that this new freedom will, in Buitron's words, "likely entice fishermen to the Galapagos for shark fins they would sell elsewhere in Ecuador, claiming they were caught accidentally outside the archipelago's restricted waters."
Appeals were made to the CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) forum in June to protect two other shark species highly sought after for their meat and fins, the spiny dogfish (also called rock salmon) and the porbeagle. The appeal failed to win the two-thirds majority vote needed for listing, however.
The Ocean Project is vested in saving the Galapagos shark and others - we don't want this awesome creature to become just a memory from our Seas the Day cover. Part of our effort is promoting Sharkwater, a must see documentary turned action movie about the multi-billion dollar industry thriving on the wholesale slaughter of sharks.
Partner Spotlight: We salute our Partners working on shark conservation every day. Visit the Shark Alliance and Shark Research Institute websites to learn more about sharks and their conservation. If your organization is interested in partnering to protect the Galapagos Shark please contact us. |
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2008 Seas the Day Conservation Education Calendar Special |
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Summer is quickly coming to a close, but we're continuing our special rates for Partners on the 2008 Seas the Day conservation education calendar . We hope, too, that all primary Partner contacts received a complimentary copy. If not, please let us know.
Start 2008 off right with this fun and meaningful calendar - a personal action guide to protecting our ocean planet! This calendar is a must have for conservation die-hards or those simply fascinated by their trip to the zoo or aquarium.
Each month features captivating ocean images by renowned photographer Wolcott Henry and inspiring quotes to compliment the monthly theme. All the major environmental issues of our day are succinctly addressed with action tips for making an appreciable difference.
Calendars are available now for Partners, essentially at cost. Orders can be conveniently placed online or by contacting us .
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Sharkwater is Coming to US Theaters Soon! |
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Don't miss the US premiere of Sharkwater - September 28 in Florida, November 2 nationwide. Filmed in fifteen countries in high definition video, Sharkwater takes you into the most shark-rich waters of the world, tracing the multi-billion dollar shark fin trade and exposing the exploitation and corruption surrounding the world's shark populations. It's a true-life action adventure of danger, sadness, and hope, unveiling an almost unreal world of wholesale shark slaughter (some 100 million a year), espionage, corrupt governments, mafia rings, and danger.
Already capturing 20 awards at film festivals across the world, this adventure by filmmaker Rob Stewart is sure to change the way you look at sharks forever. This film in bound to convert many landlubbers into shark and ocean conservation advocates.
Sharkwater tells an important story and The Ocean Project is helping to promote the film in various ways through our network of Partners. Look for promotional information at the American Zoological Association conference in September, and in your inbox. If your zoo, aquarium, or organization is interested in helping to promote Sharkwater and bringing its critical message to the public please contact us . More information on Sharkwater is available at www.sharkwater.com.
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International Coastal Cleanup is here again! |
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If you skipped out last year, you definitely want to get involved this time!
Since the first International Coastal Cleanup (started in 1986 by The Ocean Conservancy , an Ocean Project Partner) this event has grown into the largest event of its kind. There are now Cleanup Coordinators in nearly all U.S. states and territories, and most countries around the world, so there are plenty of ways to get involved - but hurry!, this year's cleanup is on Saturday September 15th!
Join with hundreds of thousands of people who will descend on beaches, lakes, and streams all over the world to remove trash and debris, both on land and under the water. Volunteers of all ages will form the largest one-day volunteer event on behalf of a clean ocean and clean waterways. Youth participation is a major key to success. Each year, groups such as aquariums, zoos, museums, schools, scouts, and churches take advantage of the unique opportunity offered by the cleanup.
Learn more and get involved at coastalcleanup.org .
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Marine Aquarium Conference of North America |
The Marine Aquarium Conference of North America (MACNA) is the premier conference focused on aquarium hobbyists and the industry that serves them. This year the conference will take place September 14-16, 2007 in Pittsburgh, PA. Together with The Ocean Foundation, The Ocean Project has donated 600 of our 2008 Seas the Day conservation education calendars and bookmarks for conference participants.
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National Estuaries Day |
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The last Saturday in September (29th) is National Estuaries Day -- a celebration of the highly productive and often magical places where rivers meet the sea. It began in 1988 as part of Coast Weeks to educate the public on the importance of estuaries and the need to protect them. The annual event has matured into a national campaign with festivities across the country. The featured event is EstuaryLive , an interactive estuary field trip over the Internet.
To participate and for more information, visit www.estuaries.gov
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The 18th Annual Bioneers Conference is taking place October 19-21, 2007 in San Rafael, CA. The Bioneers Conference is a hub of practical solutions for restoring the Earth - and people. It's a network of innovators working with nature to heal nature.
If you can't make the conference, bring part of the Bioneer experience to you with DVDs of past conferences. Of particular interest may be former plenary speaker Dr. Sylvia Earle. A marine biologist, oceanographer, and maritime advocate with more than thirty-years exploring the sea, Dr. Earle delivered a memorable speech entilled, Sustainable Seas: The Vision, The Reality.
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Pacem in Maribus XXXII: Waves of Change Conference |
The International Ocean Institute's 32nd Pacem in Maribus (Peace in the Oceans) conference, Waves of Change , is taking place in Malta, November 5-8, 2007. Waves of Change will empower women and youth to promote the peaceful and sustainable use of marine resources and sound ocean governance. The conference will bring together key and influential stakeholders including representatives from government, NGOs, and educational institutions to develop new approaches, effective solutions, and actionable outcomes at overcoming ocean threats. The conference will be organized around three-themed tracks:
- The State of the Ocean: Current Challenges and Future Prospects
- Involvement of Women and Youth in the UN Millennium Development Goals
- New Solidarities for Sustainable Ocean Governance
For more information, the latest program and to register, visit: www.thewavesofchange.org . |
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NAAEE Annual Conference |
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Registration for the North American Association for Environmental Education Annual Conference and Research Symposium, November 14-17, 2007 in Virginia Beach, Virginia, is now open; the early-bird deadline is September 14, 2007. This year's theme is 'Explore New Horizons for Environmental Education.' The conference strands are Community & Conservation Education; Environmental Justice & Cultural History; Fundraising & Leadership Development; Marine Education; Service Learning; Sustainability Education; and Technology & EE. Visit the NAAEE website for more conference and registration details.
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Ocean Sciences Meeting |
 The 2008 Ocean Sciences Meeting , From the Watershed to the Global Ocean, March 2-7, 2008 in Orlando, Florida, investigates water as the lifeblood of our endeavors. The bi-annual meeting will recognize the vital nature of the interconnections between land and sea. The deadline for abstract submission, including abstracts about education and outreach, is October 2, 2007. |
4th Global Conference on Oceans, Coasts, and Islands
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 The Global Forum on Oceans, Coasts, and Islands is holding its 4th global conference on April 7-11, 2008 in Hanoi, Vietnam. The conference will focus on achieving ecosystem management and integrated coastal and ocean management at national and regional levels, and in areas beyond national jurisdiction. Conference proceedings fall under three major themes:
- Ecosystem management and integrated coastal & ocean management by 2010
- Climate, Oceans, and Security
- Governance of Marine Ecosystems and Uses in Areas Beyond the Limits of National Jurisdiction
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An Ocean of Thanks to EPIC - producers of ocean friendly cleaning products
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The Ocean Project would like to extend an ocean of thanks to Environmental Products for Important Causes (EPIC) for their recent contribution from their sales of ocean-friendly cleaning products. As part of our ongoing efforts to help our Partners and the public lead healthier, more ocean-friendly lives, The Ocean Project expanded our partnership with EPIC this year - together, we will continue to raise awareness about the health and environmental hazards of commonly used cleaning products.
EPIC has a line of household and janitorial cleaning products that are biodegradable, all natural, and made with renewable raw materials (no petroleum based products). For our Partner institutions, please check out their janitorial line of products. Also check out how you can make your home ocean-friendly!
Everyone wants a clean home and business, and a healthy blue planet. When you purchase EPIC products you say YES to family friendly cleaners and NO to the typical cleaners with toxic chemicals and heavy metals that are dangerous to you, and the ocean.
EPIC stands apart from other all-natural cleaning companies; they donate 100% of their profits after taxes to environmental causes. For each "Starter Kit" or "Save the Seas Kit" you purchase you can direct EPIC to contribute $5.00 directly to The Ocean Project to help us continue our conservation education work with our Partners around the world. |
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