honoring world oceans day: celebrating our south florida ocean advocates
image credit: parole dure/dts
world oceans day is more than a hashtag. it's a global call to action to protect our blue planet—the source of over 50% of the oxygen we breathe, a regulator of our climate, and home to incredible biodiversity.
here in south florida, we’re lucky to be surrounded by rich marine ecosystems—from coral reefs and mangrove forests to the clear, life-filled waters of biscayne bay. but these waters are under constant threat from plastic pollution, rising sea levels, and ecosystem degradation.
at bonnee | the clothing swap app, where sustainability and community go hand in hand, we believe that every action matters—including who we spotlight. so today, we’re shouting out local organizations and changemakers working tirelessly to keep our oceans clean and our coastlines resilient.
6 south florida organizations + leaders making waves for good
1. waterkeepers florida
this powerful network is on the front lines of the clean water movement. with their mission to ensure fishable, swimmable, and drinkable water for all, they monitor pollution, push policy, and advocate for healthy waterways across the state.
why it matters: clean oceans start upstream.
2. debris free oceans
based in miami, debris free oceans is redefining what environmentalism looks like. through community beach cleanups, educational events, and lifestyle swaps that reduce plastic waste, they make sustainability fun, social, and impactful.
why it matters: everyday habits = lasting change.
3. biscayne bay foundation
dedicated to protecting one of florida’s most vulnerable marine ecosystems, the biscayne bay foundation blends science, education, and policy to restore and preserve this iconic bay.
why it matters: biscayne bay supports everything from manatees to our morning paddleboards.
4. biscayne bay national park
this national treasure is 95% underwater. from coral reefs to seagrass beds, it's home to countless marine species—and a vital resource for our coastal communities.
why it matters: national parks aren’t just for hiking—they’re for ocean life too.
5. seaworthy collective
a one-of-a-kind blue tech incubator, seaworthy collective supports ocean innovation through entrepreneurship. they're building a future where startups and sustainability collide to solve our biggest water challenges.
why it matters: Ocean problems need ocean innovators.
6. dr. shireen rahimi
marine scientist, underwater filmmaker, and powerful ocean advocate, dr. shireen rahimi is leading the way in reshaping how we relate to water. through cinematic storytelling, research, and a commitment to indigenous and regenerative wisdom, she shows us that the ocean isn’t just a resource—it’s a living relative.
why it matters: when we connect emotionally to the ocean, we’re more likely to protect it.
what you can do this world oceans day
you don’t need to be a marine biologist to make a difference. here are 3 easy ways to protect our oceans:
swap instead of shop. every new clothing item contributes to water waste and microplastic pollution. use apps like bonnee to give clothes a second life.
join a cleanup. get involved with local beach cleanups or start your own with friends.
use your voice. Support local policies that protect marine ecosystems and fund conservation programs.
final thoughts
we’re endlessly inspired by the ocean and by the people working every day to protect it. let this world oceans day be a reminder that small ripples lead to big waves. whether you swap a tee instead of buying new, or volunteer with a local org, your choices matter.
let’s keep south florida blue, beautiful, and resilient.
#protectwhatprotectsus