Why Does it Matter
From biodiversity and food supply to the livelihoods of millions, so much depends on our oceans.
However, the health of our oceans is declining with rising sea surface temperatures and acidification, overfishing, coral bleaching events, and marine plastic pollution. The combined impact of these problems is shifting our ocean ecosystems into unrecognisable states.
Earthwatch is making strides towards tackling several of these problems. Our work focuses on:
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Plastics waste management through community solutions
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Addressing data gaps
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Upskilling Indigenous Rangers
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Piloting circular economy initiatives
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Educating stakeholders and community
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Exploring plastic offsetting and market-based mechanisms
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Up-skill your staff
Scientific Research
Australian Microplastics Assessment Project (AUSMAP)
In partnership with AUSMAP, participants collect data, raise awareness and work with stakeholders on solutions to microplastic pollution around Australia. Our Chief Scientist Scott Wilson is the Research Director for AUSMAP, and is also involved in other projects relating to the impacts of plastics, rubber crumb and synthetic turf fields into aquatic environments. Dr Wilson is also a member of the Global Plastics Treaty Working Group.
Plastic Management
Working with Dr Denise Hardesty and Professor Steve Smith, Earthwatch is involved in research programs exploring plastic waste in Australia and around the world.
Recovery of the Great Barrier Reef
Mitsubishi Corporation and the Australian Institute of Marine Science work to fill knowledge gaps that will help reef managers to make evidence-based decisions about active interventions.
This will support the Great Barrier Reef’s recovery, and the recovery of reefs around the world.
Protecting the Reefs Coastal Frontier
The Earthwatch Student Challenge is a once in a lifetime opportunity for a select number of Year 10 - 12 students to experience environmental research first hand. In this Challenge, students help researchers understand how mangrove forests respond to severe flood events and develop strategies to protect and enhance these coastal habitats into the future.
Our Marine Programs
Our Work Aligns With
