Oceano Azul Foundation

Oceano Azul Foundation has helped establish more than 300,000 km² of marine protected areas, working in partnership with governments and organisations. It has led three scientific expeditions and contributed to three others. It has also supported capacity-building initiatives in more than 60 countries, helping leaders shape ocean policy and unlock the potential of the blue economy. Launched in 2016, the foundation is international and has its headquarters at the Lisbon Oceanarium. It wants to create a new level of connection, action and impact for ocean sustainability. Its approach is to work from the ocean's point of view, bringing science and decision-makers together to speed up systemic change for marine ecosystems. That work includes advancing conservation science, pushing for ocean policy change internationally, and changing how governments and institutions make decisions about the marine environment. Its focus areas are marine protected areas, deep-sea conservation, blue carbon and climate mitigation, international ocean governance, and community engagement on ocean issues. The foundation communicates widely about the ocean's ecological, economic and social value, from biodiversity and oxygen production to climate regulation and livelihoods. It argues for stronger, science-based protection frameworks and supports a moratorium on deep-sea mining. Major founding partners back the foundation, and its broad team includes conservation scientists, policy specialists and communications professionals. They link scientific knowledge with diplomacy and practical policy action, working towards a healthier, more resilient and sustainable ocean for future generations.