Oceans are vital because they not only provide food and livelihoods, but also produce half of the planet’s oxygen, circulate most of the global carbon cycle and absorb over 90% of the heat from greenhouse gas emissions. As destructive fishing methods and global warming pose an increasing threat, marine protected areas (MPAs) – which account for less than one-tenth of oceans today – are helping to replenish ocean life and benefit coastal communities. Pristine Seas, an explorer-in-residence program within the NGO National Geographic Society, supports the establishment of MPAs, where damaging practices are banned or limited. Using science, exploration, media and policy, Pristine Seas works with governments and partners to implement MPAs and safeguard the future of this essential ecosystem.
We invest in Pristine Seas as part of LGT Venture Philanthropy’s environment strategy to scale up the protection and regeneration of threatened and destroyed ecosystems. We provide comprehensive support across three areas:
Marine Protected Areas created
km2 of cumulative area protected
We are grateful to partners like LGT Venture Philanthropy, which share our passion for the ocean and are equally committed to protecting it. With their support, National Geographic Pristine Seas will conduct research, tell stories, and work side-by-side with Indigenous Peoples and local communities in the Pacific Islands region.
Learn more about how Pristine Seas works in the field