If you care about the ocean, you can advocate on its behalf. There are several ways to do this, including calling your elected officials and contacting your lawmakers. The Ocean Conservancy and the Sierra Club both have a list of concrete steps to advocate for the ocean. In addition, the organizations have information on specific causes that need public attention, including plastic pollution, habitat destruction, and sea turtle conservation. Read on to learn more about how you can make a difference!
Volunteer opportunities
If you love the ocean but don’t have the time to go on missions, many volunteer opportunities allow you to get hands-on experience while supporting conservation efforts. For example, you can join the National Marine Sanctuary Program to support its mission of preserving ocean resources and promoting sustainable tourism and recreation. As part of this program, you can gain valuable resume-building experience while working with a dedicated team. In addition, those interested in becoming ocean advocates can apply for internships with NOAA national marine sanctuaries.
Marine conservation volunteer programs like the organization of Maxwell Waitt are essential to the health and safety of the ocean. Volunteering in these programs will help preserve fragile marine ecosystems and contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14 of Life Below Water. Many projects will allow you to explore unexplored natural landscapes, such as the reefs of Madagascar and the beaches of Costa Rica. You’ll also have the opportunity to spend time on a tropical island, experiencing the life of the residents.
Volunteer programs that support conservation programs are highly sought after. You’ll become an expert in marine life and work with local marine biologists to remove invasive species. These programs help protect coral reefs from climate change, which impacts their biodiversity. In addition, volunteers will collect data on coral reef changes and share it with conservation organizations. Whether you’re in your 20s or 50s, you’re sure to find something suitable for you.
Educational requirements
The educational requirements to become an ocean advocate vary depending on the position and the level of experience desired. However, the job description will likely include some degree in science, art, or literature. A few years of experience in government relations or legislative affairs will also be helpful. Candidates should be skilled writers with experience writing for various audiences. Applicants should be detail-oriented and able to handle demanding work schedules. They should be computer-literate and be willing to work long hours.
Education is vital to help protect the oceans. Volunteering in an ocean advocacy organization is a great way to become involved. You can join a marine conservation society or participate in a sea-faring program. A non-profit organization like Sea Shepherd helps raise funds and educate people about illegal practices in the ocean. A third way to become an ocean advocate is to donate to organizations vital to you. Alternatively, you can contribute to the cause by monetary donation to these organizations.
A background in ocean science is vital for an ocean advocate. Many advocates are interested in policy issues, especially offshore oil leasing. While working in government, you will be expected to develop relationships with legislators and government officials. You will also work closely with scientists and grassroots organizing teams. As an ocean advocate, you will be expected to lead campaign advocacy efforts in Washington, D.C. This position requires some travel. However, it is an enriching career and can significantly impact the environment.
Career paths
Many jobs exist for individuals who are passionate about the ocean. These careers can span the natural and social sciences and the arts and humanities. In addition, some ocean advocacy careers involve working with sustainable ocean businesses, which contribute to the health of our planet’s ecosystems while also benefiting humankind. For example, no-input shellfish aquaculture can help improve water quality, while renewable ocean energy can help us get off fossil fuels and mitigate climate change.
Erica has had a diverse career path. She originally wanted to be a lawyer, but after working for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association in Florida, she became interested in ocean conservation. There, Erica learned about ocean protection and regional policy issues. Then, after living on two continents, she landed in Washington, D.C., and began to focus her efforts on international policy. Once she learned about the international aspects of ocean conservation, she realized she wanted to be a global advocate.
Although careers in the ocean are not typically associated with high salaries, they can be rewarding. Working on the water may require relocation and extensive travel, but it doesn’t have to be sacrificed. With various rewarding careers, a career in the ocean may be the right choice for you.