Sylvia Earle is the founder of Mission Blue, an organization which inspires global action to explore and protect the ocean by uniting a coalition to support marine protected areas, called Hope Spots, elevating them through expeditions, media, and outreach to safeguard the ocean’s health. As one of the world’s most renowned marine biologists and undersea explorers, has spent her life illuminating the ocean’s wonders and fragility. She has authored more than 125 scientific and popular publications, led 50+ ocean expeditions with over 6,000 hours underwater, and holds the world solo diving depth record. Born in New Jersey, she earned degrees from Florida State University and Duke University. She served as Chief Scientist of NOAA, received 12 honorary doctorates, and was Time magazine’s first “Hero for the Planet.”
Photo © Felix Kunze.