Minecraft and Mobile Tide Pools Help Close Gaps in Ocean Education

Stanford marine scientists are using innovative projects to broaden the public’s appreciation for the ocean and inspire action to protect it.

The ocean produces half of Earth’s oxygen, supports millions of livelihoods, supplies billions of people with a vital source of animal protein, and absorbs excess heat and carbon dioxide caused by burning fossil fuels. Even the internet relies on underwater networks that span the salty depths.

RGV Reef Expands Marine Conservation Efforts With Historic Deployment

On Feb. 25, Friends of RGV Reef marked a significant moment in its ongoing mission to restore and protect marine life in the Gulf. In honor of the late Gary Glick, a key leader in the creation of Friends of RGV Reef, the organization deployed the largest vessel ever introduced to the reef—a 110-foot-long ship that will serve as a thriving habitat for marine life. This event not only paid tribute to Glick’s enduring legacy, but also reinforced the need for community support to sustain and expand the reefing project.

For the Love of Sharks

Ahead of International Women's Day on 8 March, we partnered with Women In Ocean Science to share some inspiring stories by women who work in marine biology, marine sciences and other related fields to elevate their voices. Here, we chat to Dr Jodie Rummer, a marine biologist specialising in fish physiology and adaptation to climate change.

With Physioshark, she currently investigates how climate change impacts the physiology of newborn and juvenile reef sharks.

"Guitar shark" and Snail With Venomous "harpoons" Among 866 New Marine Species Discovered in Ocean

Over 800 marine species were newly discovered after two years of collaborative efforts by scientists, governments, museums and others participating in the Ocean Census, a global alliance founded to accelerate the discovery of marine life. New species of shark, sea butterfly, mud dragon, bamboo coral, water bear, octocoral, and shrimp were just some of the findings that were registered in a directory after the collaborative conducted 10 global expeditions.

Scientists in Norway Explore Biodegradable Fishing Gear to Tackle Plastic Pollution in the Ocean

To combat ocean plastic pollution, scientists in Norway are developing biodegradable fishing gear that naturally degrades without releasing harmful microplastics. They aim to replace conventional synthetic ropes, nets, and lines – materials that can remain for centuries, entangling marine life and disrupting ecosystems. Lost and discarded fishing gear, known as “ghost fishing gear,” is a major contributor to plastic pollution in the ocean.

North Sea Collision Plastic Pollution Clean-up is a "race against time"

An operation to retrieve thousands of plastic pellets spilled into the North Sea following an oil tanker collision has become a 'race against time' as authorities aim to clear pollution before tides turn and it's washed back into the food chain.

An operation to clean-up thousands of plastic pellets that have appeared in the North Sea in the wake of a collision last week between a US oil tanker and a cargo ship has become “a race against time.”

As Ghost Junk Haunts the Sea, ‘mermaids’ Are Fighting Back

Sitting on the side of a small boat off the coast of Baja California, suited up in diving gear, a group of 10 women prepared to descend into the chilly waters.

Abandoned fishing lines, nets and traps are a pervasive and deadly threat to the world’s oceans, smothering coral reefs and ensnaring marine animals. According to one estimate, nearly a third of fishing lines are lost or discarded at sea. Experts estimate that more than 300,000 whales and dolphins die each year after getting tangled in them.

Opinion: Plastic Bag Bans Don’t Help the Ocean - There Are Better Solutions

We don’t want plastic in the ocean. Most plastic degrades slowly and we have all seen pictures and videos of marine life being harmed by plastic. While many environmental issues are controversial, this one isn’t.

The simple goal of keeping plastic out of the ocean — which I share completely — is what drives some politicians to support banning plastic grocery bags. It would appear that plastic bag bans are tailor-made for government intervention.

Biologging: Animals Are Recording Human Impact on the Ocean

Biologging sensors attached to animals help researchers collect valuable data about marine environments. This data helps monitor human activities, such as fishing, pollution, and noise disturbances from boats and construction, providing insights into their impact on marine life.

A recent study from Kobe University highlights the importance of integrating data from different sources to create an “Internet of Animals” with open-access standards.

Fear of 'environmental harm' After North Sea Oil Tanker Collision

Amid concerns for the safety of those affected by a collision in the North Sea yesterday between an oil tanker carrying US jet fuel and a cargo ship transporting sodium cyanide, environmental organisations have voiced strong fears over the long-term impact a resultant oil and chemical spill will have on the environment.

According to publicly available data, the collision is likely to have occurred in or near two essential marine protected zones within the area.

Ocean Plastics Linked to Disability Risks For Coastal Residents

Tiny plastic particles in coastal waters may be linked to higher rates of disabilities that affect thinking, movement, and self-care, according to a preliminary investigation. 

This research examined regions with elevated levels of marine microplastics and observed a greater prevalence of functional limitations in local populations, though the study does not prove a direct cause-and-effect relationship.

National Ocean Science Trusts Launch West Coast Ocean Science Action Agenda

Two ocean science trusts in the United States have joined forces to launch a major initiative to generate new and significant strategic investments in West Coast ocean and coastal science and research and monitoring. The “West Coast Ocean Science Action Agenda,” the handiwork of the California and Oregon Ocean Science Trusts, is intended to provide the science needed to address serious ocean and coastal challenges West Coast states are facing in the coming decade.

Protecting Our Ocean Protects Human Rights

Today in Geneva, Switzerland, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the human right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment will present to the Human Rights Council on the important relationship between the ocean and human rights. Special Rapporteur Astrid Puentes Riaño published the UN’s first report on the ocean and its interconnection with human rights in December 2024, after gathering submissions from governments around the world and over 60 Indigenous Peoples’ and civil society organizations, including Earthjustice.

Marine Center in ‘crisis mode' After Sea Lions and Dolphins Left Stranded on LA Beaches

An increase in toxic algal bloom has caused the Marine Mammal Care Center to near maximum capacity as it responds to nonstop calls each day.

Sea Lions are not the only animals being affected by the bloom. Beginning last week, dolphins have also washed ashore from Long Beach to Malibu coasts, according to the Marine Mammal Care Center (MMCC).

How Hurricanes Help Oceans Fight Climate Change

Hurricanes cause extensive damage on land and to offshore platforms – effects that scientists understand well. However, their impacts on deep ocean environments remains largely unexplored.

These storms stir up ocean layers, influencing marine ecosystems in ways that are difficult to study.

Ocean Energy Is Almost Ready, But It Needs a Boost Over the Testing Barrier

In a large room with concrete-block walls, a crane lifts what looks like a miniature lunar lander out of a water tank. Water drips from the metal contraption as the crane slowly lowers it onto the floor. Then, the clock starts ticking.

"My colleagues and I were like, ‘OK, as soon as it touches the ground, were going to do this and this and this," said Brittany Lydon, a mechanical engineering graduate student at the University of Washington.

Global Sea Level Rose Higher Than Expected Last Year. Here’s Why.

The rate of global sea level rise follows a trend of rapidly increasing rates over the past 30 years.

Oceans last year reached their highest levels in three decades — with the rate of global sea level rise increasing around 35 percent higher than expected, according to a NASA-led analysis published Thursday. The unexpected rise in global levels is concerning, particularly as an indicator for what to expect around coastal cities, many of which are already experiencing more damaging flooding.

EPA Withdraws Permit for Atlantic Shores Offshore Wind Project

The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is reviewing the air quality permit for the Atlantic Shores offshore wind project, following a remand from the federal Environmental Appeals Board regarding the EPA’s initial permit decision. The permit, which was granted to the developer in September 2024, was appealed to the board by Save Long Beach Island (SLBI), a group of local residents who oppose the offshore wind project proposed to be built off New Jersey.

US Offshore Wind Projects Hit by New Lawsuits and Delays, But Construction Is Not Halted

Federally permitted offshore wind energy projects in New Jersey, Massachusetts and Virginia have been hit in recent days by new legal actions in the wake of new Trump Administration energy politics—but Virginia's mammoth 2.6-GW project has marked a key construction milestone and is on track for completion at the end of 2026. In New Jersey, a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency administrative appeals board judge has invalidated the agency air pollution permit for the Atlantic Shores offshore wind energy project.

Earth’s Strongest Ocean Current Could Slow Down by 20% by 2050 in a High Emissions Future

In a high emissions future, the world’s strongest ocean current could slow down by 20% by 2050, further accelerating Antarctic ice sheet melting and sea level rise, an Australian-led study has found. The Antarctic Circumpolar Current – a clockwise current more than four times stronger than the Gulf Stream that links the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian oceans – plays a critical role in the climate system.

Record Sea Levels, Ocean Heat, CO2 Concentrations in 2024 a ‘Wake-Up Call’ For Humanity, Warns UN Weather Agency

This is the grim picture emerging from a new report from the UN weather agency, which looked at changes in climate trends over the course of 2024, the hottest year on record. These “distress signals” are “clear signs” of the impacts of human activities on our climate and environment, with some consequences deemed “irreversible over hundreds if not thousands of years,” the World Meteorological Organization’s (WMO) new State of the Climate report concluded.

Sustainable Fishing: How Louisiana’s Menhaden Industry Protects the Gulf

For generations, Louisiana’s menhaden fishing industry has supported small coastal communities and harvested a sustainable resource while employing responsible fishing practices that protect the Gulf’s ecosystem. Through science-based management, innovative technology, and strict regulations, we ensure that menhaden remains abundant for future generations. The commercial menhaden fishery uses the purse seine method, a specially designed technique that minimizes environmental impact. Here’s how the process works.

Government Proposes Controversial Fishing Ban in Popular Bay: 'A major threat to the fisheries'

In a proactive move to safeguard marine biodiversity, Hawaiʻi's Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) has introduced new regulations targeting fishing practices in Maunalua Bay. These measures aim to protect critical marine life, create a Fisheries Management Area, and establish long-term sustainable fishing within Maunalua Bay.

DOGE Cuts Hit American Fishermen Hard: 'I'm Scrambling'

Commercial fishermen across the U.S. say that the federal funding they relied on to upgrade to lower-carbon emission systems has been frozen or rescinded due to budget cuts by President Donald Trump's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

The cuts impact funding for replacing outdated diesel engines and at-sea refrigeration systems—projects that environmentalists argue would reduce the seafood industry's carbon footprint.

The Most Overfished Fish In The U.S. & Why It’s A Disaster For Our Health And Planet

Bluefin tuna is one of the most sought-after fish species in the world, but unfortunately, its popularity has led to severe overfishing. Known for its tender and flavorful meat, bluefin tuna is a favorite in sushi restaurants, fetching high prices. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), bluefin tuna populations have drastically declined due to overfishing and illegal fishing activities.

12th Annual Photo Competition for UN World Oceans Day

DPG is pleased to announce the opening of the 12th annual Photo Competition for UN World Oceans Day, surrounding the 2025 theme, “Wonder: Sustaining What Sustains Us.” Complementing the UN’s World Oceans Day celebration preceding the UN Ocean Conference in Nice, France, this year’s competition draws on the power of the arts to expand our perspectives and appreciation for our blue planet, and ignite a wave of action towards necessary change.