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:
Develop informed and responsive strategies, policies and practices to manage plastics in your business. Our hands-on, immersive in-field experiences, transform corporate employees into citizen scientists and develop informed responses on how plastic pollution and management issues and mega trends affect business now and into the future.
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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.
Working with Dr Denise Hardesty and Professor Steve Smith, Earthwatch is involved in research programs exploring plastic waste in Australia and around the world.
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Marine debris and plastic pollution has fast become one of the greatest environmental challenges we face. Partnering with Amcor, we take their employees on a real-life learning experience where they undertake marine debris research around the world. Inspiration for innovation within the business and finding solutions at the manufacture point are a key aim of the project. Previous partners include CSIRO and Southern Cross University. Read more
In partnership with Coca Cola Australia Foundation, the Carpentaria Land Council Aboriginal Corporation, and Plastic Collective, Earthwatch provides training to 20 CLCAC Indigenous Land and Environment Rangers and 30 community volunteers to help deliver a first-of-its-kind marine pollution and wetland management program in the Lower Gulf of Carpentaria. Read more
Indonesia is the second largest contributor of plastic debris globally, largely driven by lack of access to waste management infrastructure. By joining forces with Plastic Collective, Sea Communities, Southern Cross University and TK Maxx, we have collectively implemented a community-run circular economy solution for Les Village waste management. Members of the public help with monitoring the impact the program is having on plastics in the local environment. Read more