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Blue Sharks

Four pioneering women who shaped ocean conservation

1 minute read

This International Women’s Day, we want to remember some of the female trailblazers of marine conservation.

Although often under-recognised, women have always played a crucial role in protecting our ocean. From groundbreaking research to fearless activism, these pioneering women have been shaping ocean conservation for decades.

Katy Payne

Katy Payne, a marine biologist, dedicated her career to studying the complex vocalisations of humpback whales. Her groundbreaking research revealed the intricate songs these whales use to communicate, raising awareness about the threats posed by noise pollution in the ocean. Payne's work has been instrumental in efforts to protect whales and their habitats.

Katy Payne

Credit: Kris Krüg/PopTech from Camden, Maine and Brooklyn, NY, USA, CC BY-SA 2.0

Rachel Carson

Widely known for her influential book ‘Silent Spring’, Rachel Carson raised the alarm about the dangers of pesticides. However, Carson was also a passionate marine biologist, and her earlier work, ‘The Sea Around Us’," explored the ocean's interconnected ecosystems, inspiring a generation of oceanographers and conservationists.

Rachel Carson

Credit: Smithsonian Institution

Wangari Maathai

While environmental activist Wangari Maathai is known for founding the Green Belt Movement, which planted millions of trees across Africa, her fight for environmental justice encompassed the ocean as well. Maathai recognised the link between healthy forests and healthy oceans, understanding that protecting one meant protecting the other.

Wangari Maathai

Credit: Martin Rowe

Eugenie Clark

Nicknamed the "Shark Lady" for her lifelong fascination with these misunderstood creatures, Eugenie Clark was a pioneering ichthyologist (fish scientist). She conducted revolutionary research on shark behaviour and physiology, challenging negative stereotypes and advocating for their protection. Clark's work helped pave the way for sustainable fishing practices and marine protected areas.

Blue Sharks

Credit: Kirsty Andrews

How you can shape ocean conservation

As we follow in their footsteps, these pioneering women continue to inspire us every day in the work we do toward a cleaner, better-protected, healthier ocean.

If you are also passionate about the ocean, a Marine Conservation Society membership is the perfect way to help protect marine wildlife and habitats while joining a community of fellow ocean lovers.

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