The state of our oceans and freshwater systems is in peril. 500
million people depend on the fishing industry for their livelihoods, and
over 2 billion people depend on seafood as their main or only source of
protein. Overfishing, pollution and unsustainable practices are
endangering these livelihoods and food security.
Communities from
the Lobstermen of Maine, to the Usipa harvesters of Malawi, rely on
fish for sustenance, income and community. Now, almost 30% of fisheries
worldwide are depleted/over-exploited and 60% are already exploited to
capacity. We are counting on young people everywhere to change these
trends. This is especially important for the Kingdom of Morocco, which
is the largest fishing market in Africa.
The Millennium Oceans
Prize celebrates youth activism advancing Marine and Freshwater
conservation, and sustainable use of oceans, seas, rivers, lakes and
marine resources. Initiatives that champion sustainable fisheries will
receive special consideration. The objectives of this Prize are
reflected in the proposed United Nations Sustainable Development Goal #14. The Prize and Campaign it enables is supported by Millennium Campus Network (MCN) and the Remmer Family Foundation.
What we are looking for:
We are looking for campaign ideas that are concrete and can rally your peers to mobilize in this sector. How
can you engage youth leaders on other campuses and in communities
across the globe to fight for and champion advocacy and leadership for
the oceans, freshwater systems, sustainable fishing, and marine
conservation? Your campaign could take shape through activism, social
entrepreneurship, or research. How will you mobilize your community and
inspire youth leaders world-wide to take part in the fight for
sustainable practices that protect our oceans and freshwater systems?
"Nobody,
no matter whether an environmental advocate, a scientist, or a
fisherman, will tell you that the oceans are what they were 10 years
ago, 20 years ago, even...the abundance is just simply not there
anymore." — Edward Norton, actor and UN Goodwill Ambassador for
Biodiversity
The prize:
The
best part of this prize is the opportunity to cultivate a community of
peers who care just as much about the oceans and marine resources as you
do. Here are the specifics:
- Up to $5,000 to implement your winning campaign
- Recognition on the main stage at MCC17 in Rabat, Morocco
- Co-curate campaign action groups, mobilizing and coordinating with peers who are passionate about SDG 14 at MCC17
- Write for our media partners about your campaign during MCC17
- Co-curate global webinars with the MCN and the Remmer Family Foundation during the academic year to keep peers engaged and involved.
Moreinfo: https://www.mcc17.org/campaigns
