The ocean begins at our front doors—by the choices we make and the actions we choose. Simple tasks, such as mowing our lawns or washing our cars, can ultimately affect the health of the sea. Commonplace materials such as grass clippings, pet droppings, solvents, and paints, become pollutants when washed into freshwater and marine ecosystems. Our personal actions can make the difference between a viable, living ocean system, and one that has lost its productivity or its ability to sustain life.

We confront an ethical, environmental, and economic challenge that urgently requires our nation to realign its posture toward the sea. Changing our course entails understanding the problems, setting the objectives, applying the focused energy required to overcome inertia, and taking appropriate action in time to stem impending disaster. Only a coordinated and innovative national effort will accomplish the work of educating people about the need to redress the imbalance in our oceans caused by human activities. By inspiring and teaching people,

America’s Ocean Challenge will motivate action through leadership, not crisis.

For ideas to institute behavioral change, click here.