R & E Ocean Community Conservation

R & E Ocean Community Conservation is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to marine conservation through scientific research, education, and community engagement.

Mission and Vision

The organization's mission is to research, preserve, and care for vulnerable marine environments and species by providing communities with knowledge, training, and tools for conservation, protection, and economic growth towards a sustainable habitat and strong community[3]. Their vision involves inspiring scientists and communities to work together in protecting and fostering healthy marine ecosystems through sustainable developments and conservation[3].

Objectives

R & E Ocean Community Conservation aims to promote the conservation and sustainable management of marine ecosystems. This is achieved through scientific research, education, and public awareness. The organization empowers communities by providing knowledge and resources that foster socio-economic sustainability while encouraging responsible marine practices in collaboration with governments, industries, NGOs, and local communities[3]. They also raise awareness of current threats to marine habitats and offer practical solutions through educational programs and volunteer opportunities[3].

Initiatives and Projects

One of their notable projects is The Whale and Dolphin Community Project of the Gulf of Tribuga, which focuses on the highly biodiverse Gulf of Tribugá on the Pacific coast of Colombia. This project involves four key pillars: science, education, local population involvement, and environmental protection[5]. By engaging the local population in scientific studies, R & E Ocean Community Conservation enables them to become Citizen Scientists, who can continue their work independently while receiving a small wage for their contributions[5].

Community Engagement

The organization emphasizes community science, allowing individuals and local groups to contribute to scientific research and conservation efforts[1]. They also encourage volunteering, which includes activities like beach clean-ups, wildlife monitoring, and educational outreach, to make a direct impact on the health of the oceans[1].

Founding and History

R & E Ocean Community Conservation was founded in 2018 by Ann Carole Vallejo and is based in Canada[5]. The organization has been involved in various international projects, including those in Antarctica and El Salvador, highlighting its commitment to global marine conservation[5].