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Below are answers to some of the questions we hear most often about our work, our community, and how you can get involved. If your question is not answered below, please contact us at info@missionblue.org.

Mission Blue was founded in 2009 by renowned oceanographer Dr. Sylvia A. Earle following the TED Prize, which enabled her to ignite a global movement to protect the ocean.

Dr. Sylvia Earle envisioned a global movement to inspire action to explore and protect the ocean. She recognized that while awareness of ocean decline was growing, there was no unifying framework to connect people, science, and local action. Mission Blue was created to fill that gap—building a worldwide network of Hope Spots to safeguard critical marine ecosystems and support those working to protect them.

Mission Blue focuses on accelerating ocean protection through four key areas:

Mission Blue is helping drive measurable ocean protection by:

  • Catalyzing the creation and expansion of marine protected areas
  • Supporting local champions leading conservation in their communities
  • Advancing science and data to inform decision-making
  • Elevating global awareness of the ocean’s critical role in sustaining life on Earth

Through its network, Mission Blue amplifies and accelerates efforts that lead to lasting protection.

A Hope Spot is a special place in the ocean that is scientifically important, culturally significant, or vital to the health of marine ecosystems. These areas are identified as critical to the ocean’s future and are championed by local leaders working to protect them.

Hope Spots are selected based on criteria such as:

  • Biodiversity and ecological importance
  • Presence of threatened or endangered species
  • Cultural, economic, or community significance
  • Existing or potential for protection
  • Strength of local leadership and stewardship

Donations support Mission Blue’s global work, including:

  • Funding Hope Spot Champions and local conservation efforts
  • Advancing ocean science and monitoring
  • Supporting policy and protection initiatives
  • Expanding global communications and advocacy

Every contribution helps accelerate meaningful ocean protection. Explore ways to get involved here.

Yes. Mission Blue offers opportunities for donors to support specific Hope Spots or programs aligned with their interests. Our team is happy to work with you to direct your gift for maximum impact. Explore ways to get involved here.

Mission Blue’s programs include:

  • Hope Spot Champion Fund – Direct support for local conservation leaders
  • Science Initiatives – Including emerging tools such as eDNA and ocean monitoring
  • Global Campaigns – Advancing ocean protection goals such as 30×30
  • Convenings & Workshops – Building capacity and collaboration across the network

Yes. Mission Blue operates as a U.S.-based nonprofit organization and is a registered 501(c)(3), meaning donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.

Anyone can nominate a Hope Spot by submitting a proposal. Nominations are reviewed based on scientific, ecological, and community criteria, and selected sites become part of the global network supported by Mission Blue. Nominate today!

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