Conservation

Two vaquitas (Phocoena sinus)
Two vaquitas. It is considered the smallest and most endangered cetacean in the world.

Flock of Vaquitas Spotted, Raising Survival Hopes

In the sheltered waters of Mexico’s upper Gulf of California, a remarkable sighting stirred conservationists: a small flock of vaquitas, the world’s most endangered marine mammal, was observed together, suggesting that hope for recovery may yet exist. The species, long believed to number in the single digits, appears to have shown signs of resilience—albeit fragile—and the sighting has renewed calls for rigorous protection and enforcement.

Oceanic Crisis and Global Warming Denial

Bleached outplanted and wild staghorn and brain corals, Sombrero Key Reef, Florida Keys, summer 2023. (Credit: Ananda Ellis / NOAA)

Rising ocean temperatures endanger coral reefs, fish and entire ecosystems. Misinformation campaigns stall climate action. However, reducing emissions and protecting habitats can still prevent catastrophic biodiversity loss and ensure a sustainable marine future. Ila France Porcher separates the myths from the facts about the oceanic crisis and global warming.

The UN High Seas Treaty has now been ratified by 60 countries and will take effect in January 2026—creating a legal framework to protect biodiversity in international waters.

High Seas Treaty Ratified to Protect Ocean Biodiversity

The United Nations High Seas Treaty has officially crossed the threshold for ratification, with 60 countries now signed on. The agreement, finalised in 2023 after years of negotiations, will come into force in January 2026. It represents the first legally binding framework to protect biodiversity beyond national jurisdictions, covering nearly half the planet’s surface.

Explorer Ventures Protecting Coral, One Dive at a Time

In July, divers aboard the Turks & Caicos Explorer Il did more than explore the islands' incredible underwater beauty-they suited up to help protect it. 

The latest RumPowered® Research Expedition, organized by the Turks & Caicos Reef Fund in partnership with Explorer Ventures Fleet, brought together passionate divers for a hands-on marine science experience focused on reef restoration and sustainability. 

Rebuilding Coral Reefs: An Interview With rrreefs Co-Founder Dr Ulrike Pfreundt

The rrreefs’ Pujada Bay project, built in 2024, spans over 100m², with 820 3D-printed modules.

How can coral reefs be rebuilt and regenerated using 3D-printed modular clay bricks? In this interview, Dr Ulrike Pfreundt, co-founder of rrreefs AG, explains the concept, its development, how it works, the promising results and how divers and dive resorts can get involved.

A climate-resilient coral reef in Fiji (Matt Curnock / The Ocean Agency / press release)

Eleven Nations Sign Historic Pledge to Safeguard Climate-Resilient Reefs

The commitment was launched during a high-level event co-hosted by Papua New Guinea, the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and The Nature Conservancy (TNC). It represents a milestone in international marine conservation, aligning with global biodiversity goals set for 2030.

The voluntary pledge targets climate-resilient coral reefs—those naturally better equipped to withstand rising temperatures and ocean changes. These reefs are seen as vital to future restoration efforts and sustainable livelihoods, particularly for coastal populations.

Conservation in Raja Ampat – Part 2: Gerry Allen’s Role in Quantifying a Species Factory

Dr Gerry Allen, seen here in his home office, is an Australian ichthyologist renowned for his extensive contributions to the study of coral reef fishes. Photo courtesy of Dr Gerry Allen.

This is the second article in a series by Don Silcock exploring how a successful conservation strategy was developed and implemented in Raja Ampat, on the northwestern tip of Indonesia’s remote West Papua province.

Dive With Purpose: The Manta Trust Launches Transformative Volunteer Time Expeditions

Imagine if your employees could swap their desks for pristine dive sites, contribute to vital marine conservation, and still earn their salary. 

The Manta Trust, a global leader in manta ray conservation, is offering forward-thinking companies an extraordinary opportunity to combine corporate social responsibility with life-changing team-building experiences.