A hermit crab on the shore with a plastic cup for a shell.

The Anthropocene

Plastic bottles and other marine debris cover a rocky beach in Curacao.

Marine Plastics Overview

Are you a student researching marine plastics or someone looking to reduce their plastic use? This overview dives into everything to know.

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Are You An Educator?

At Smithsonian Ocean, we have lesson plans, activities, and resources to help you engage your students in the wonders of our oceans.
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The Anthropocene Articles

4,000 Years of Marine History through the Eyes of a Seabird

A Hawaiian petrel in flight

The Sant Ocean Hall: Life at the Poles Exhibit

Human activity is increasing in the Arctic marine environment due to climate change. To help the most vulnerable areas, the Global Marine Program of IUCN, along with partners, is convening a series of workshops aimed at enhancing ecosystem-based management and identifying biologically or ecologically important or vulnerable habitats. Burgerbukta, a bay in Svalbard, Norway, is being managed for ecosystem protection.

Alaska Vulnerable to Invasive Species from Warmer Waters

A photo of an oyster cage, out of the water, covered in sea squirts.