Our conservation work
For more than 40 years, the Aquarium has worked to protect the ocean that shapes our lives. Along California’s coast, we care for and rehabilitate sea otters, giving orphaned pups a second chance in the wild. In Sacramento, we advocate for stronger protections for the waters and wildlife that depend on sound environmental policy. And around the world, we partner with fishers and coastal communities to support more sustainable ways of using ocean resources.
These efforts are connected by a shared goal: using science and collaboration to restore ecosystems, protect wildlife, and support a healthier future for the ocean.
Local impact
Change & impact
Sea otter recovery program
Our program pioneered an approach of pairing orphaned southern sea otter pups with surrogate mothers.
Read more – Sea otter recovery program
Change & impact
Kelp forest resilience & recovery research
We study why kelp forests become urchin barrens, when they recover, and when to intervene.
Read more – Kelp forest resilience & recovery research
Change & impact
Sustainability at the Aquarium
Learn about our sustainability commitments at the Aquarium.
Read more – Sustainability at the Aquarium
Change & impact
Ocean education programs
See how hands-on, inclusive learning inspires the next generation of ocean stewards.
Read more – Ocean education programsGlobal impact
Change & impact
Seafood Watch
Seafood Watch helps consumers and businesses make choices for a healthy ocean
Read more – Seafood Watch
Change & impact
Reducing plastic pollution
From local action to global policy, see how we’re cutting plastic at the source.
Read more – Reducing plastic pollution
Change & impact
Policy & ocean protection
Our policy team works to engage the public and government leaders in promoting ocean conservation.
Read more – Policy & ocean protection
Change & impact
Global ocean conservation programs
We work across the globe to improve sustainability, protect human rights, and strengthen coastal communities.
Read more – Global ocean conservation programsSupport our ocean conservation work
Your support helps protect ocean life—from sea otters along California’s coast to ecosystems and communities around the world. Every gift advances science, strengthens conservation programs, and helps restore a healthier future for the ocean.
Read about our conservation work
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From Vietnam to California
From farms to CA schools, your food choices help wildlife, fishers, and global coastal food systems thrive.
Read story – From Vietnam to California
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Earth Month 2026
This Earth Month, embrace wonder. Ask questions, dive in, and join our community caring for the ocean.
Read story – Earth Month 2026
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From bridges to better seafood: investing in coastal communities
Projects we finance aim to improve the overall quality of life in small-scale fishing and farming communities.
Read story – From bridges to better seafood: investing in coastal communities
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Intergenerational connection in Ocean Learning Adventures
Aquarium content creator Lilianna Watson taught a science communications curriculum. Here's what they learned.
Read story – Intergenerational connection in Ocean Learning Adventures