What If We Don't Have a New Generation of Ocean Stewards?

It seems like the last eleven months have been an all out assault on any efforts to protect the environment and the oceans, at least from the US perspective. Stewardship for the planet has no voice in the current administration. Ocean stewards outside of the federal and many state governments are taking up the cause. While activism from the private and non-profit sectors is still strong, we cannot let it fade away over the next several years. Even with a change in direction, the damage will take a long time to repair and the cause must be picked up by a new generation of ocean stewards. 

But what if we don’t have that new generation of ocean stewards to lead the way?

We have seen that the younger generations can be a force for change. There are ways that they can mobilize around issues and make their voices heard. These voices are heard by political leaders who will listen when the volume is turned up. Without a new generation of voices advocating for the ocean, any political will towards ocean sustainability and protection will evaporate. 

Without a new generation of ocean stewards taking up the cause, the challenges the ocean is facing will not be exposed. Whether it be the seriousness of plastics in the ocean, the expansion of offshore drilling, or the tragedy of overfishing, who will tell the world what is actually happening.  Who will provide the information and scientific data that proves that climate change is real. It is heating up the ocean and it is not a con-job.

There are many organizations that advocate for ocean health and sustainability. These organizations depend on deeply committed individuals who lead their efforts and keep them viable. Without a new generation to take up the reins, these organizations risk fading away, like political will.

We do not want to live in a world without a new generation of ocean stewards. The risks are simply too great.

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