Planetary Technologies, a leader in ocean-based climate solutions, has successfully raised $11.35 million USD in Series A funding. This investment will fuel their mission to enhance the ocean’s natural carbon removal abilities, contributing to a healthier planet. The funding round, led by Evok Innovations, includes participation from BDC Capital, Amplify Capital, DNX Ventures, and Iconiq Capital, highlighting the growing interest in sustainable ocean-based climate solutions.
Tiffany & Co., inspired by the ocean’s allure, announces a significant $1 million donation to The Nature Conservancy through their ‘Love For Our Oceans’ initiative. This commitment supports the organization’s ambitious goal of protecting 4 billion acres of ocean by 2030, furthering Tiffany & Co.’s longstanding dedication to environmental stewardship.
The 2024 Ocean Photographer of the Year awards showcased breathtaking images of marine life, including a whale mid-gulp, a seagull riding a sea turtle, and a deadly mini octopus. The winning photographs captured the diversity and beauty of the ocean, highlighting the importance of marine conservation.
Scientists have discovered a population of unusually large mako sharks off the California coast, raising questions about their size and potential impact on the ecosystem. While some believe these sharks are a new breed, others suggest their size is due to abundant food sources and the potential threat of overfishing.
GoPro and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) have partnered to host GoPro World Ocean Day 2024, a four-day event in Ko Tao, Surat Thani, focused on ocean conservation and sustainable tourism. The event included GoPro workshops, #SeaGlass workshops, and a PADI Instructor course, aimed at inspiring responsible travel and showcasing the beauty of Thailand’s marine ecosystems.
Atlantis Dubai celebrates the third anniversary of its Atlantis Atlas Project on World Oceans Day, June 8th. The resort highlights its collaboration with Seafood Souq, pioneering the first transparent seafood supply chain in the region. Through the 1 USD contribution scheme, Atlantis Dubai has raised over $250,000 to support sustainability efforts. Seafood Souq’s SFS Trace technology has enabled the resort to achieve 90% seafood traceability, with plans for full traceability by December 2024. Atlantis Dubai’s commitment to sustainability includes numerous environmental initiatives and a doubled donation for marine animal interactions on World Oceans Day.
100 for the Ocean, a philanthropic initiative founded by world-renowned photographers, has launched a limited-time sale featuring over 100 renowned artists. The proceeds from the sale will be donated in their entirety to organizations dedicated to ocean conservation. Participating artists include celebrated photographers such as Brian Skerry, Paul Nicklen, andCristina Mittermeier, along with five emerging artists selected through an open call.
The tiny Pacific island nation of Niue has been recognized for its innovative approach to ocean conservation with its Ocean Conservation Commitments (OCCs) concept winning the ‘Nature’ category of Fast Company’s 2024 World Changing Ideas Awards. The OCCs are a groundbreaking financing mechanism that helps finance the protection of 1 square kilometers of Niue’s ocean waters with the help of sponsorship for almost 20 years. The OCC’s are managed by the Niue Ocean Wide (NOW) trust which is the first public-private partnership of Niue between the Government and Tofia Niue, a local non-profit organization.
Juvenile Great White sharks, despite their intimidating appearance, exhibit preferences for specific habitat temperatures. A study by Cal State Long Beach’s Shark Lab reveals that these sharks favor water temperatures between 68 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit, akin to human comfort zones. Their preferred thermal range extends from 60 to 72 degrees, aligning with the ideal conditions found in the Pacific Ocean during the warmer months. Researchers emphasize the importance of state funding to ensure public safety as shark populations rise and climate change leads to warmer coastal waters.
Martin Guitar has launched the DSS Biosphere II guitar, an aquatic-themed model that pays tribute to the Keiki Kohola Project, an organization that protects humpback whale calves in Maui. The guitar is made from sustainable materials including FSC-certified wood and hemp, and is 100% plastic free. To support the organization, Martin has donated a generous monetary sum and is raising awareness for its work. The company also published an Impact Report and opened a museum exhibit highlighting its environmental initiatives.
