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Conservation Leadership Program

The Conservation Leadership Program, led by Dr. Octavio Aburto at Scripps Institution of Oceanography, is a fully funded and highly competetitve program rooted in a legacy of transformative ocean conservation. Building on Dr. Aburto’s research in mangrove and rocky reef ecosystems, as well as his work as a National Geographic Explorer and conservation photographer, the Program empowers young leaders to protect marine ecosystems globally. Inspired by renowned oceanographer Walter Munk, a mentor and friend to Dr. Aburto, this program builds on Munk’s vision of community-driven conservation, exemplified by the success of Cabo Pulmo’s reef restoration. With a network of seasoned practitioners from Mexico and the U.S., this initiative brings together diverse expertise to foster cross-border collaboration in marine conservation.

Currently, this program is only offered to students in grades 9 - 11 in San Diego and it is encouraged to apply with the intent to continue into Phase 2 of the program. 

Phase 1: Ocean Literacy

  • Ocean Literacy - Click here to apply! 

    Dates for Cohort 1: February 10, 2025 -  March 22, 2025 (6 weeks)

    Dates for Cohort 2: March 24 - May 3, 2025 (6 weeks)

    Grade Level: 9th - 11th

    Instructor: Alberto Rivera 

    Format: Hybrid (onlive via zoom & in-person on Saturdays)

    This course delves into the intersection of ocean literacy, climate dynamics, human health, and conservation, emphasizing the pivotal role that conservation leadership plays in promoting ocean health and sustainability. With the oceans covering over 70% of Earth's surface and serving as essential climate regulators, their declining health presents significant challenges to global human well-being. This course introduces students to the principles of ocean literacy and fosters an understanding of how changes in marine environments affect local and global health. Through workshops and practical engagements, students will gain insight into the skills needed for effective environmental leadership and stewardship, equipping them to address conservation challenges in their communities.

    Throughout the 6-week course, students will be required to attend 4 in-person, 3-hour Saturday workshops at Scripps Institution of Oceanography. These workshops will enrich their ocean literacy through engaging with SIO scientists and local community organizations. In addition to deepening their understanding of marine science, students will also have the opportunity to engage with innovative oceanographic tools through hands-on experiences. This includes using ArcGIS for spatial data analysis, exploring the latest in scientific diving gear for underwater exploration, and gaining insight into the use of other advanced technologies like remote sensing and environmental monitoring equipment, enabling students to bridge theoretical knowledge with real-world applications.

    Students participating in this course will be eligible to apply to the next phase of our program: a competitive summer Conservation Leadership Dive Program.

    By the end of the course, students will:

    • Describe how oceans contribute to the Earth’s energy budget through processes such as solar absorption, heat radiation, and reflection.
    • Explain the ocean’s role in the greenhouse effect, specifically focusing on the absorption and release of greenhouse gases like CO₂.
    • Analyze the implications of oceanic environmental changes, including pollution and climate change, on broader human health.
    • Connect global ocean health and resource management issues to personal and local contexts, exploring effects on climate, air quality, and public health.
    • Utilize tools like ArcGIS to investigate the ocean’s influence on local temperature regulation and the differential impacts on diverse coastal communities.

Phase 2: Conservation Leadership Dive Program

  • The Conservation Leadership Divers program will support 6 participants in a 9-day PADI dive certification course, held in San Diego and Catalina Island, through a partnership with Odyssea Adventures. In collaboration with the SIO Scientific Diving Program and SCUBA DIVERsity, this initiative expands access to scuba diving for students while offering a diverse range of activities, including diving, snorkeling, nature walks, and tide-pooling. These experiences will provide opportunities to explore coastal ecosystems and gain insight into dive career pathways. Participants will also become members of the Youth Conservation Leadership Scuba Club, led by the Aburto Lab at Scripps Institution of Oceanography (SIO), as part of the Atlas Aquatica initiative, which is endorsed by the UN Ocean Decade Program.

    Conservation Leadership Fellows 

    All 36 students from the summer programs will become Conservation Leadership Fellows, gaining valuable job skills through hands-on work in marine conservation and research. As Fellows, students will take on leadership roles, including guiding project strategies, organizing outreach activities, and presenting their work at events hosted by Scripps Institution of Oceanography and local organizations. They will also play an active role in social media campaigns and educational initiatives aimed at promoting marine protection.

    The program is designed to build a supportive community that fosters both personal and professional growth, offering access to mentorship, collaboration opportunities, and wellness resources to encourage healthy choices and support development in STEM fields.