Our Work
Our ocean work aims to explore, understand and conserve marine and coastal systems. Through oceanography, marine/coastal ecology, climate science, ocean exploration technology, community conservation and related fields, we inspire and empower people to protect our oceans.
As vast as the ocean itself, stories from our ocean Explorers inspire us to connect with the ocean and find solutions to protect it. Our Explorer-led programs have helped protect millions of square kilometers of ocean.
of ocean protected
Pristine Seas expeditions have explored our ocean
litter items have been tracked in "Sea to Source" to understand how plastic waste travels along the Ganges River system.
Featured Program
Pristine Seas
National Geographic Explorer in Residence Enric Sala and a team of determined scientists, storytellers and policy experts launched the Pristine Seas project in 2008 to explore and inspire the protection of the world’s ocean. They are working to inspire the creation of protected areas where marine life can thrive — while ensuring effective management for years to come.
In the Field
Our Ocean Explorers
From shallow coastal tides to the depths of the sea, they reveal underwater worlds that sustain life on Earth. Our Explorers have embarked on groundbreaking expeditions — they’ve discovered new marine life, uncovered significant pieces of human history, created several important marine life reserves supporting both wildlife and local communities, and inspired countless others to explore the ocean. They are determined photographers, marine biologists, scientists, policy experts and filmmakers working to protect marine life and ensure its survival.
Read more stories of impact from some of our ocean Explorers on nationalgeographic.com.
Explorer's Perspective
Making a Difference
“When humans truly grasp the fact that everything is connected and that our actions or inactions ultimately affect ourselves, maybe we'll cherish this planet like a jewel. I believe that through good science and storytelling, this can be achieved.”
Join Us
Help Us Protect the Ocean
Inspire the Next Generation to Save Our Oceans
Our oceans are key to our planet's survival. With our ocean resources, educators can bring engaging and important lessons and activities to learners everywhere and encourage young people to protect our marine ecosystems.
Support Our Work
We believe that when people understand our world and have deep, emotional connection to its natural and cultural wonders, they’ll take action to support and protect them. Will you help protect the wonder of our marine world?