Ocean conservation

Pacific Environment helps preserve ocean biodiversity and champions the coastal communities that depend on healthy seas for their culture, livelihood and survival. Our approach to ocean conservation blends local leadership, regional cooperation and global advocacy. We work to ensure marine protection efforts are equitable, effective and informed by those most impacted. From policy to pilot projects, we focus on long-term resilience for people and the planet.

We also support grassroots efforts to manage marine protected areas and strengthen coastal resilience in the face of climate and industrial threats. Our partners lead the way in shaping sustainable practices that protect both ecosystems and economies. By sharing resources, building capacity and honoring cultural expertise, we foster enduring solutions. Together, we’re creating a future where oceans remain vibrant, protected and central to community well-being.

Local action with ocean conservation organizations

We work alongside coastal communities to design and implement site-level pilot projects that build local capacity and support effective, lasting marine protection. These models center community leadership, address local threats and build trust between stakeholders. Our work includes:

  1. Supporting locally-managed marine protected areas
  2. Providing tools and training for sustainable coastal practices
  3. Collaborating with Indigenous leaders and small-scale fishers
  4. Using science and traditional knowledge to shape marine management plans

Advancing the global 30x30 goal

Oceans are powerful forces in the fight against climate change, but only if we protect them. That’s why Pacific Environment is helping advance the global goal to conserve 30% of the ocean by 2030. This work safeguards biodiversity, strengthens food security and supports the coastal communities that depend on healthy seas. By connecting grassroots leadership to global action, we’re helping secure a thriving ocean future for all.

We support this through:

  • Identifying and mapping sites to contribute to national 30×30 goals

  • Developing toolkits to provide guidance on establishing equitable and effective marine protected areas that protect biodiversity and benefit communities

  • Advocating for policies that formalize community roles in marine resource management

Scaling local success through regional collaboration

We help scale successful local efforts through regional collaboration and shared strategy. By bringing coastal leaders, governments and NGOs together, we strengthen political will and spread effective practices across countries and coastlines.

Our policy work also brings ocean priorities into global decision-making. At forums like the United Nations International Maritime Organization’s Marine Environment Protection Committee we advocate for stronger protections, better enforcement and international support for marine protected areas.

Stay informed

Follow the latest stories, updates and insights on marine protection, coastal communities and ocean biodiversity. Discover how local leadership and global policy are helping to safeguard healthy, resilient seas.

Support our work

Protecting the ocean is a shared responsibility. From coastal villages to inland cities, every voice can help strengthen protections for marine ecosystems and the communities that depend on them. Simple actions like signing a petition or supporting grassroots efforts can lead to lasting change.

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