June 8, 2012

Premiering on World Oceans Day: New Films that Highlight the Role of Marine Protected Areas

Join Our Community of Science Lovers!

This article was published in Scientific American’s former blog network and reflects the views of the author, not necessarily those of Scientific American

Happy World Oceans Day!

But...is it really happy? The world's oceans are experiencing a large amount of trauma at the hands of the irresponsible Homo sapiens, this is not a secret. However, today marks the release of four new short films that focus on how North America's marine protected areas help to protect marine life and to sustain economies. The films tell short stories that highlight some of North America’s nearly 2,000 marine protected areas and vividly illustrate how they enhance our scientific understanding, provide exciting recreational experiences, help protect a large number of species, restore fisheries and conserve key habitats, and support communities that depend on marine resources.

The films are the result of a unique partnership between the Commission for Environmental Cooperation (CEC), North America’s marine protected area agencies and a network of 24 aquarium Coastal Ecosystem Learning Centers, under the Washington-based Coastal America, in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

On supporting science journalism

If you're enjoying this article, consider supporting our award-winning journalism by subscribing. By purchasing a subscription you are helping to ensure the future of impactful stories about the discoveries and ideas shaping our world today.

So today, for World Oceans Day, let's remember that despite all of the bad news there is some good news as well.

It’s Time to Stand Up for Science

If you enjoyed this article, I’d like to ask for your support. Scientific American has served as an advocate for science and industry for 180 years, and right now may be the most critical moment in that two-century history.

I’ve been a Scientific American subscriber since I was 12 years old, and it helped shape the way I look at the world. SciAm always educates and delights me, and inspires a sense of awe for our vast, beautiful universe. I hope it does that for you, too.

If you subscribe to Scientific American, you help ensure that our coverage is centered on meaningful research and discovery; that we have the resources to report on the decisions that threaten labs across the U.S.; and that we support both budding and working scientists at a time when the value of science itself too often goes unrecognized.

In return, you get essential news, captivating podcasts, brilliant infographics, can't-miss newsletters, must-watch videos, challenging games, and the science world's best writing and reporting. You can even gift someone a subscription.

There has never been a more important time for us to stand up and show why science matters. I hope you’ll support us in that mission.

Thank you,

David M. Ewalt, Editor in Chief, Scientific American