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Act for the Ocean

A white wave shape.

Ocean Action Alert

Help defeat Initiative 2117—we can’t afford it!

Initiative 2117 (I-2117) will be on the ballot this November and we are calling for Washingtonians to pledge to vote NO!

The Climate Commitment Act (CCA) is a key bill enacted in 2023 that helps protect Washington—people and environment. I-2117 would undo progress under the CCA like conservation projects, expanded public transit, job creation, and other climate work. The CCA makes Washington a leader in cap-and-invest climate law and holds polluters accountable for their fossil fuel emissions.

The costs of I-2117 are too big. Washington will be stripped of billions in investments in community priorities across the state—like the fish habitat restoration projects that aid salmon recovery, the expansion of jobs in the clean energy sector, or the forest management programs that prevent wildfires.

A yellow, white and black graphic that reads "Pledge to vote no on 2117." The URL "No2117.com" is at the bottom.
A stretch of the Salish Sea dotted by small landmasses.

Taking action for the ocean

Through our mission of Inspiring Conservation of Our Marine Environment, the Seattle Aquarium encourages all members of our community to support the ocean and the living beings that rely on it.

We can do this. The ocean faces some big challenges, including climate change, but by working together we can form new habits to help reduce rising temperatures, toxic pollution and ocean acidification. We can restore habitats and grow animal populations. Together, we can protect our one world ocean. Our future depends on the sustainability of the actions we take today. It’s time to act for the ocean!

Sign up for ocean action alerts

Receive occasional action alerts on ocean-related policy issues, from climate change and environmental justice to orca recovery and plastic pollution.

Start small

Small changes can make a big difference. By letting go of a little convenience and acting intentionally, we can support marine health and fight climate change every day. The ocean’s health depends on it.

Use less gas. Leave the car at home. Consider buying carbon offsets when you fly.

Reduce energy use. Put on a cozy sweatshirt instead of turning up the heat. Turn off lights and appliances when not in use.

Eat less meat and dairy. Choose fresh, seasonal, locally grown produce.

Choose sustainable seafood. Support fisheries that prevent overfishing, minimize bycatch and conserve essential fish habitat. We serve only sustainable seafood in our café!

Protect clean water. Keep your car tires properly inflated and aligned to reduce the wear and tear that releases toxic particles. Fix oil leaks and wash your car at a commercial car wash. Use fertilizers and pesticides sparingly.

Conserve water at home. Sweep driveways and sidewalks instead of hosing, take shorter showers and choose drought-tolerant plants.

Find strength in numbers

The Seattle Aquarium helps advance science-based policies to conserve and protect our marine environment. Our advocacy work at the local, state and federal levels contributes to climate resilience, sustainable seas and clean waters.

Your participation makes us stronger. Want to stay on top of marine issues? 

Vote for the ocean

The future of sea otters, orcas, salmon and other amazing marine animals depends on what you mark on your ballot. We hope you’ll join us in voting for local, state and national leaders who will ensure clean air and water, stand up for wildlife and include all communities in decision-making processes. Make sure you’re registered to vote—and vote in every election!

Vote for the ocean

Talk to your representatives

When elected officials receive numerous emails or phone calls on a specific issue, it can mean the difference between a yea or nay vote, a decision to dig deeper into a topic or what position they take time to champion. Learn how to reach out to one of your representatives to discuss an ocean policy issue or share your stance on a specific piece of legislation. 

Photo credit: Ricky Osborne

Contact an elected official

Share your views

Writing an editorial letter to a news outlet is another way to share your view on a current marine policy issue. Decision-makers and their aides rely on local papers as a gauge for public opinion. Your letter to the editor could influence your elected officials—and their constituents—to act on behalf of our one world ocean. We can help you get started!

Photo credit: Ricky Osborne

Write a letter to the editor

Stay "current" on ocean policy

Sign up for our Ocean Action Alerts. You’ll receive occasional updates on ocean-related policy issues where your voice matters.

Learn about the Aquarium’s advocacy priorities and accomplishments. As a member of our community, you’re part of this work!

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Website maintenance

Please note: Our ticketing and membership systems will be offline for approximately two hours starting at 10pm Pacific on Wednesday, July 10. During the maintenance window, online ticketing and membership will not be available.

Thank you for understanding.

Support the Seattle Aquarium

Two sea otters at the Seattle Aquarium floating on the water in their habitat, holding onto each other demonstrating a rafting behavior.

With your help, the Seattle Aquarium builds connections with our community to inspire conservation and curiosity for marine life. When you make an end-of-year gift by December 31, you'll be joining us in protecting our shared marine environment—now and for generations to come. Thank you!

Today only, your donation will be matched dollar-for-dollar up to $15,000 thanks to the generosity of Betsy Cadwallader, and Jess and Andy Peet!

Photo of an eagle ray gliding through the water cut out and placed against an illustrated background of snowflakes with two illustrated presents above the eagle ray.

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