The science could not be clearer: Earth’s climate and ocean chemistry are changing, and carbon dioxide emissions from human activity are the primary driver.
As an organization grounded in science, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is as committed now as it ever has been to our mission of inspiring conservation of the ocean.
It’s important to us to work in the wider world, to engage with folks like you, and to walk the talk in our own business operations. That’s why we’re making changes that reduce our carbon emissions—and that we hope will inspire others to help shrink humanity’s global carbon footprint.
What we continue to do
Here at the Aquarium, we’re upgrading our infrastructure and transforming our business practices to reduce the emissions of heat-trapping gases.
For example, we actively promote alternative transportation options by providing incentives for our staff and volunteers to carpool, take the bus, bike, or walk to work at least three days a week. We subsidize bus passes, offer interest-free loans to purchase commuter bikes, supply vanpool vehicles and provide reduced-fee parking for rideshare and carpool drivers.
We communicate with our visitors through exhibits, public programs, and one-on-one interactions about the impacts of climate change and ocean acidification. We make sure our visitors know that there are practical ways for each of us to make a difference.
Here’s a video breaking it down:
We spark conversations about climate change and the ocean among our 3 million social media followers on Twitter, WordPress, Tumblr, Facebook and other channels.
Our Seafood Watch program works to better quantify the emissions of carbon dioxide and other heat-trapping gases in the production of wild and farmed seafood, and to share that information—especially with major seafood buyers who can incorporate that information into their purchasing decisions.
We engage with elected officials, and we advocate for science-based policy action to address climate change and ocean acidification.
How you can work with us
Speak up. Talk with your family, friends, colleagues—even with strangers—about why climate change matters and how everyone can be part of the solution.
It’s clearer by the day that the transformations we need to make aren’t about deprivation and limitations. We’re creating a new, green energy future that means a better life for us, and for the ocean on which we depend for our survival.
Tell those in public office, or running for office—from your city council to national leaders—that climate change is a priority to you.
Urge your elected officials to take action on climate change. Call, write or tweet your representatives. Ask them to represent your interests by embracing policies that reduce carbon emissions, protect marine habitats, and help us adapt to the unavoidable changes already in motion.
Change won’t happen overnight. But working together, we can make a difference.
Learn more about Climate Action for the Ocean.
Featured photo: A young guest makes a smoothie with a bike-powered blender during the Cooking For Solutions Sustainable Foods Celebration at the Monterey Bay Aquarium.
Conservation & Science 