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Forests and Oceans

Forests and Oceans
Great Pacific Garbage Patch update: Testing how to predict plastic accumulation in the ocean

In the coming six weeks, our team will test the Smart Steering Strategy, which integrates data from ocean models, GPS, and aerial drones, in the Pacific Ocean to enhance predictions of plastic accumulation.

By pinpointing high-density plastic hotspots, we aim to optimize our plastic removal efforts. Stay tuned for updates, insights, and behind-the-scenes moments from the expedition!

Dear Coca-Cola: Keep Plastic Out of the Pacific

In 2021, Coca-Cola ceased selling refillable glass bottles in Samoa, opting for single-use plastic bottles instead. This shift poses a significant environmental challenge, as Samoa lacks adequate recycling facilities, leading to increased pollution in the ocean.

Recently, members of the Samoan and Pacific Islander communities gathered in London to urge Coca-Cola's largest bottler to protect the ocean and reinstate reusable packaging. They emphasize that Coca-Cola has the solutions needed to address this issue. Join the call for change by signing the petition at oceana.ly/Coca-Cola.

Different rivers, different trash we catch

Life in the Deep Sea

The deep sea, characterized by complete darkness, is home to a vast and fragile ecosystem. It teems with an array of colorful marine life, much of which remains undiscovered.

Despite its hidden nature, this unique environment faces increasing threats. As governments and companies accelerate deep-sea mining efforts, Oceana is actively working to defend these vital habitats.

How do broadclub cuttlefish disguise themselves?

Broadclub cuttlefish are remarkable masters of disguise, capable of instantly changing their body patterns. They have been observed displaying up to 13 distinct designs, adapting their appearance at will.

Discover more about these fascinating mollusks in our Marine Life Encyclopedia: oceana.ly/4azTla1

Scientists have found plastic pollution everywhere in the world

Addressing ocean plastic pollution involves a multi-faceted strategy. We prevent plastic from reaching the ocean by scaling river operations through our 30 Cities Program. Concurrently, we develop drone and AI technologies to efficiently detect plastic hotspots within the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, optimizing cleanup efforts.

Our work also includes researching discarded fishing gear to identify the most effective solutions. Additionally, once our Interceptors are operational, we clean legacy pollution from coastlines, restoring these environments and preventing stranded plastic from re-entering the ocean.

Myth: Coral Reef Waters are Full of Nutrients

Coral reefs, often called "rainforests of the sea," surprisingly thrive in nutrient-poor ocean deserts. Despite these challenging conditions, they host a quarter of the world's marine fish species.

Dr. Kathryn Matthews, Oceana's Chief Scientist, explains how these vibrant ecosystems sustain such incredible biodiversity.

June update: trash tsunamis, new deployments, and chats about the Great Pacific Garbage Patch

Good Ocean News from June

June brought significant developments for our oceans. The month featured positive stories, from wildlife being recognized as climate allies to remarkable deep-sea discoveries.

Don't miss these important updates on marine life and ocean conservation.

Rare Faceless Cusk Eel Sighting

Rare underwater footage captured a faceless cusk eel, named for its unusual appearance. It lacks visible eyes; the dots on its face are actually nostrils. This fish also possesses a small, extendable mouth underneath its head, used to capture food.

NOAA scientists discovered this unique eel during a deepwater exploration of the Marianas. Its peculiar features are likely adaptations to the deep sea's low-light environment, where sight offers little advantage.

100,000 kg of trash did not enter the ocean in Panama this year

One year ago, our first Interceptor (022) launched in Panama's Río Abajo as part of the Siete Cuencas Project.

This year, we expanded operations to the Río Matías Hernández and Juan Díaz. Our efforts have prevented over 100,000 kg of trash from entering Panama Bay, significantly benefiting local communities and the environment.

ESA Success Story: Giant Manta Ray

Giant manta rays, severely impacted by commercial overfishing and bycatch, were listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) in 2018. Extensive research and recovery efforts are now underway to protect them.

The ESA has been crucial in safeguarding marine animals. We're highlighting five species it helped protect. Join us in defending this landmark law and vulnerable species by visiting https://oceana.ly/ESA.

What are the cobras of the sea?

Banded sea kraits are amphibious reptiles that hunt in coral reefs. 🐍 Like their terrestrial relatives, cobras, these snakes possess fangs containing powerful venom.

Explore more about banded sea kraits in our Marine Life Encyclopedia.

Stop Single-Use Plastic Waste at the World Cup

The world's biggest sporting events, such as the World Cup, should not contribute to global plastic waste. It's crucial to address the environmental impact of these major spectacles.

We urge Coca-Cola and FIFA to commit to reusable solutions and help eliminate single-use plastic from sports stadiums permanently. Take action now: Tell Coca-Cola and FIFA to commit to reuse.

All this trash could have been in the Caribbean Sea

Interceptor 016, situated in the Balmagie Gully, plays a crucial role in environmental protection.

This system effectively prevents trash from reaching Kingston Harbour and the Caribbean Sea, safeguarding these vital waterways.

Plastic pollution in Los Angeles doesn't stand a chance against Interceptors

Discover compelling stories and vital updates on ocean conservation efforts. By subscribing, you'll gain insight into the crucial work being done to protect our marine environments.

Stay informed and support the cause by visiting and subscribing to The Ocean Cleanup's official YouTube channel: The Ocean Cleanup YouTube.

Meet the Ocean’s Most Devoted Fathers

Discover the ocean's most dedicated dads! Join Philip Chou from Oceana’s Science & Strategy Team as he shares incredible stories of underwater fatherhood. Learn about seahorse males that carry and "give birth" to their young, clownfish guarding eggs, emperor penguins braving winter, and other unique paternal care strategies.

Dive in to celebrate these amazing fathers! Support Oceana by subscribing for new videos and becoming a Wavemaker to protect our oceans. Stay connected on Facebook, Instagram, X, and TikTok.

Defend the Endangered Species Act

The Endangered Species Act protects over 1,600 plant and animal species, but this landmark law is constantly under threat.

Help defend these incredible creatures and their vital protections. Add your name today: https://oceana.ly/42vOuSR

Good news from Panama: less trash is reaching the ocean

In collaboration with our local partner @mareaverdepanama, we have deployed Interceptor 025 in Panama's Rio Matías Hernández. This effort aims to prevent more trash from reaching Panama Bay.

This marks the third of seven planned deployments in Panama City, integral to our Siete Cuencas project. Stay tuned for further progress updates.

We had a chat about ocean plastic pollution with Captain Charles Moore in Los Angeles

Following the successful deployment of Interceptor 007 in LA's Ballona Creek, two additional Interceptors will be deployed in the Los Angeles and San Gabriel Rivers.

Together, these three Interceptors will address the 410 to 628 tons (820,000 to 1,384,503 lbs) of plastic that flows from the city to the ocean.

EarthSayers are a beacon of hope for our planet. By amplifying the voices of those who care deeply about life on Earth, it empowers individuals and communities to take meaningful action”
— Dr. Elena Rivera
Environmental Scientist and Advocate
 

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EarthSayers CINEMA

Watch, learn and lead—sustainability starts with you.

How to Live on Earth | Feature Documentary | Presented by Benedict Cumberbatch

What if the solutions to building a better future already exist? How to Live on Earth is an ambitious documentary that explores how humanity can create a thriving future by collaborating with nature. Presented by Benedict Cumberbatch, the film reveals the potential of teaming up with nature to address our greatest challenges.

Heartwarming and energizing, it offers a hopeful vision for a future where both nature and humanity can thrive. How to Live on Earth is produced by Open Planet Studios in association with Villars Institute Foundation and Silvania. Join the conversation by downloading film assets and sharing your reaction at howtoliveonearth.net/social-toolkit. Explore educational resources from the Villars Institute at YouTube.

 

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How to Live on Earth | Feature Documentary | Presented by Benedict Cumberbatch