There are a number of outstanding organizations promoting healthy ocean ecosystems today. One SDTN applauds, and definitely one all divers ought to be aware of is Ocean Champions, which bills itself as "The Only Political Voice for the Oceans." A 501(c)(4) organization, the group focuses solely on oceans and on marine wildlife - but reminds us that all activity on our planet affects the oceans somehow. Here, we'll take a look at Ocean Champions - an outstanding organization dedicated to protecting and restoring ocean environments, restoring marine life populations to health, and putting a stop to harmful practices that put not just oceans, but the whole world at risk.
Who Are Ocean Champions?
Founded by ocean advocates Jack K. Sterne, Esq. and David Wilmot, Ph.D., Ocean Champions is a group dedicated to utilizing electoral politics as a means to creating successful policies, rather than focusing solely on policy. With a view that members of the ocean conservation community will find greater success in their efforts via full participation in the U.S. political process, Ocean Champions works directly to elect pro-ocean candidates and defeat those who either don't care, or who support unsustainable industry and other activity.
Ocean Champions Philosophy
The philosophy behind Ocean Champions is that those of us who use the ocean should work together with more traditional conservation organizations to save the oceans. Anyone who has a stake in ocean health - from kayakers to surfers, sailors to beachgoers, and fishermen to divers - has a direct stake, while all members of society at large depends on healthy oceans for survival. Together, Ocean Champions believes we have the power to persuade state legislatures and Congress to take the action that is necessary if our oceans are to be saved.
Ocean Champions works hard to end overfishing and preserve marine life, to eliminate the threat plastics pose to the oceans, and to oppose harmful offshore drilling, while promoting wind power and other sustainable energy practices that are not only good for the oceans and the environment, but which ultimately would benefit all life on earth - including humanity.
Joining Ocean Champions
While anyone can donate even a small amount of money to Ocean Champions to help make a difference, it's just as easy for anybody to join the group. Membership starts at just $25 annually, and donations are tax deductible. If you love the oceans, and want to help this dedicated group to see to it that pro-ocean political candidates are elected, the organization welcomes new members. You can visit their website, plus you can join the conversation on Facebook and Twitter. If you are interested in an internship, Ocean Champions occasionally has positions available.
Even if you're not quite ready to join up, we encourage you to visit Ocean Champions and to see what the organization is all about. You can learn more about political candidates and public policies affecting the oceans you dive in, plus you can gain plenty of insight about the future of life on earth as we know it.