Mission:
To create a more knowledgeable constituency for conservation.

About the Organization:
Founded in 2003 by conservation pioneer Carl Safina based on three decades' worth of research, writing, and policy work, the Blue Ocean Institute works to show how nature, community, the economy, and prospects for peace are intertwined. Located at Stony Brook University's School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences, the organization partners with conservation groups, foundations, scientists, artists, chefs, retailers, and others to educate the public and inspire a deeper connection with nature that strengthens support for conservation efforts and policy change.

Current Programs:
Blue Ocean's research and conservation program includes research on sponges — an often overlooked but important component of ocean ecosystems — and, in collaboration with shark experts at Stony Brook University, helping small island nations strengthen their ability to enforce shark sanctuaries. The shark scientists are among the inaugural participants in the Blue Ocean Fellows program, which supports innovative scientists, artists, authors, and others in advancing a broader and deeper dialogue around conservation. Blue Ocean also collaborates with writers, filmmakers, and visual and performing artists to inspire public interest in marine conservation. Its quarterly online journal, Seastories.org, publishes memoirs, poetry, nonfiction, photographs, drawings, and other works of art. The Next Wave Youth Education program aims to teach the next generation about the need to protect the ocean and includes Next Wave NY, a seasonal education program in collaboration with the Long Island Aquarium. In addition, it works with Stony Brook University's Center for Communicating Science to help graduate students articulate their scientific research findings in plain and compelling language. The organization also awards its Kalpana Chawla "Spirit of Columbia" scholarship to a graduate student whose research broadens our understanding of an important ocean-related issue.

Web Site:
Visitors to the site can learn about changes occurring in the ocean as a result of climate change, the new energy future, sustainable seafood choices, threats to ocean wildlife, and the connection between nature and human welfare. The site features three blogs — Blue Ocean's, Carl Safina's, and Next Wave NY's — as well as curated videos about ocean conservation. Visitors also can learn how to help save the oceans, subscribe to the newsletter, or make a donation.

Funding:
Blue Ocean Institute is supported by individuals, foundations, and corporations.