The Nature Conservancy. Protecting nature. Preserving life.™

Decisions are being made today on how we will use our oceans for the next century. Unrestricted coastal development, pollution, and destructive and unsustainable fishing are draining the ocean of marine life. For oceans to keep sustaining us, we must find a way to sustain them.   

The Nature Conservancy is the featured charity of the “Keep Our Beaches Beautiful” campaign by Sports Illustrated and Gilt Groupe, which highlights the importance of protecting our oceans and coasts. A healthier ocean is one in which fish are plentiful, coral reefs thrive, and beaches are beautiful.

Oceans are an amazing part of our planet. Covering more than 70 percent of Earth’s surface, the ocean contains 99 percent of the planet's living space and supports nearly 50 percent of all species on Earth. Our lives require healthy oceans for oxygen, food, jobs, medicines and more. Oceans also provide us with opportunities to learn, relax and enjoy nature.

Oceans may seem vast and endless, but human activity is impacting every part of our waters and putting the health of our oceans in jeopardy. There are solutions. Governments, organizations, businesses, communities and individuals can work together to protect more of the ocean, restore habitats and make wise decisions about ocean use.