Hope Spots, a worldwide network initiated by Dr. Sylvia Earle to protect critical marine habitats, has grown to encompass 170 designated sites across 115 countries, united by local champions dedicated to preserving ocean health.
- 170 Hope Spots now span 115 countries, safeguarding 35 million km² of ocean
- Local leaders and experts drive each site's conservation efforts
- New sites added in Chile, Tonga, Chesapeake Bay, and Brazil in 2026
What happened
The Hope Spots ocean conservation network, established by Dr. Sylvia Earle in 2009, has officially reached 170 sites across 115 countries. This network covers over 35 million square kilometers of critical marine environments, making it the world’s largest community-driven marine protection effort. The network added notable new Hope Spots in 2026, including Rapa Nui (Easter Island) in Chile, Tonga in the South Pacific, Chesapeake Bay in North America, and Fernando de Noronha off Brazil’s coast.
Each Hope Spot is nominated and championed by local scientists, conservationists, and community leaders who recognize the ecological importance of these areas. These nominated sites undergo a rigorous evaluation by a global council of marine experts to ensure scientific merit and commitment to long-term protection. This decentralized, bottom-up approach fosters strong local stewardship and global collaboration aimed at mitigating threats such as overfishing, pollution, and climate change.
Why it feels good
The expansion of Hope Spots highlights the power of community-driven conservation to protect vital ocean ecosystems that produce over half of the world’s oxygen, regulate climate, and support billions of livelihoods. Unlike traditional top-down conservation models, Hope Spots empower local leaders, scientists, and advocates to take charge of safeguarding their unique marine environments. This inclusive model encourages sustainable ocean stewardship from the ground up.
With more than 200 champions actively leading efforts worldwide and partnerships with research institutions and technology providers, the network remains grounded in scientific data and innovation. The energizing stories of coral reef monitoring, mangrove restoration, and ocean advocacy not only protect biodiversity but also inspire global audiences to care deeply about ocean health and conservation.
What to enjoy or watch next
To learn more about the spirit and impact of the Hope Spots network, viewers can revisit the 2014 Mission Blue documentary on Netflix, which explores Dr. Sylvia Earle’s pioneering work in oceanography and marine conservation. The film showcases the critical challenges facing oceans and the hopeful solutions driven by marine protected areas like Hope Spots.
Engage with ongoing digital campaigns and local events featuring Hope Spot Champions from around the world, who share inspiring stories of marine restoration efforts and raise public awareness. Following Mission Blue’s initiatives is a great way to stay connected to evolving marine conservation science and grassroots action shaping a healthier future for the oceans.