U.S. ocean protection ambassadors

The future sustainability of life on earth and the health of our planet is inextricably linked to the health of our ocean. Global concern regarding environmental degradation and anthropogenic impacts on marine ecosystems has led to urgent calls for countries to meaningfully protect at least 30% of the ocean by 2030 (30x30) to preserve what remains of ocean biodiversity and restore the ocean to abundance. Activating and engaging youth is key to building a durable conservation movement that can move with the speed and audacity needed to transform the future, and EarthEcho International is at the forefront of that work supporting 30x30.  

Over the last three years, EarthEcho’s U.S. Ocean Protection Ambassador program has equipped young people with the tools, resources, and support to lead creative campaigns to advance and strengthen community-led marine protected area efforts across the United States. Adapting to a different policy landscape in 2025, this year’s U.S. Ocean Protection Ambassador program will equip six youth leaders, ages 17-22, with the training, support, and funds to 1) develop and launch campaigns mobilizing community support for key regional marine protected area proposals, protections, and/or enhanced management and 2) engage with Congress and federal agencies in defense of key environmental laws and ocean protection in the United States. Ambassadors will receive training and support from the EarthEcho team, along with mentorship from a diverse network of policy focused partner organizations.

Key Dates and Details:

• Program duration: October 2025-April 2026
• Compensation: $3,000 USD 
• Eligibility: Youth (ages 17-22) based in California, Georgia, Hawai’i, Maine, Massachusetts, New York, South Carolina, or Washington D.C. Metro Area  throughout the program duration

To apply, review the role description and complete your application by September 17, 2025 at 11:59pm EDT.

Questions about the U.S. Ocean Protection Ambassador program? Contact Sean Russell at srussell@earthecho.org.

Webinar Featuring Campaign Highlights from the 2024 Ocean Protection Ambassadors

The 2024 Ambassadors received campaign planning guidance and training from EarthEcho International and mentorship from partners including Conservation Law Foundation, Friends of the Mariana Trench, the Northern Chumash Tribal Council, the Surfrider Foundation, and the Wildlife Conservation Society’s New York Aquarium as well as support from the National Ocean Protection Coalition.