Story
We’re lacing up for the March for Science
Science holds the promise of addressing our planet’s most serious environmental challenges.
See more
Climate change
The ocean is the heart of our planet’s climate system
From coral reefs to the deep sea, the ocean is feeling the effects of climate change. These impacts affect us too — through sea level rise, more intense storms and droughts and reduced seafood catches. But it's not too late. Working together, we can reduce our reliance on fossil fuels, slow climate change and adapt to the impacts already in motion.
Understand the ocean’s role in climate change and how we can all take action to protect the ocean.
The climate challenge
The ocean is bearing the brunt of our carbon emissions — absorbing much of the excess heat and carbon we emit, and quietly protecting us from even more extreme changes in our climate. But this vital service comes at a cost: Climate change is causing the ocean to become warmer, more acidic and depleted of oxygen. These changes put additional stress on marine wildlife, from zooplankton to whales, and threaten the well-being of human communities around the world.
What you can do
Climate change is a big issue, but when we get people working together in our communities, we’re capable of big solutions, too. Changes we make to reduce our own carbon footprints are a great start — but when we connect with others to work on solutions together, we can build a more sustainable future for everyone. Here are some ideas for how to get involved.
What we’re doing
At the Aquarium, we are speaking up on climate and taking action to protect our beautiful blue planet. We’re providing educators with more tools to teach about climate science, and we’re making progress to reduce our own greenhouse gas emissions. Our policy experts are working to ensure that climate science informs decision-making in the Monterey Bay region, in California, and around the world.
Be a voice for the ocean
Sign up for our ocean action emails and get inspiring conservation stories, tips on living a sustainable lifestyle, and opportunities to act to protect the ocean—delivered to your inbox.
We're pushing back against climate change
See how we’re speaking up and taking action to protect our beautiful blue planet.
Story
Centering the ocean in the climate conversation
We worked to amplify the report released in 2019 by the United Nations' Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.
Read the storyStory
Rolling up our sleeves in Marrakech
Kyle Van Houtan, the Aquarium’s director of science, is at the 2016 U.N. Climate Change Conference in Marrakech, Morocco. He's part of a panel addressing the ocean impacts of climate change. Here’s what he told the world.
See moreStory
Leading the way in sustainable hospitality
We're not alone in our drive to inspire conservation — the entire Monterey County region is stepping up and earning recognition for its sustainable hospitality.
Read the story
