Ocean Defenders Alliance: Together, We Can Save Our Oceans

The importance of ocean conservation and how you can get involved.

Ocean Defenders Alliance (ODA) is a non-profit organization that works to protect the ocean and its wildlife. They have been working in Hawaii since 2016 to remove marine debris, educate the public about the importance of ocean conservation, and advocate for policies that protect the ocean. Their all-volunteer boat and dive crews remove abandoned fishing nets, traps, lines, plastic, and other man-made debris beneath the water that threaten ocean wildlife and habitats.

With roots on the California coastline the Ocean Defenders Alliance have since branched out to the Hawaiian Islands where ODA-Hawai’i conducts regular cleanups of beaches, reefs, and waterways on Oahu, Hawai’i, and Maui. They also offer educational programs for schools and the public, and they work to raise awareness about the issue of marine debris. ODA is a strong advocate for policies that protect the ocean, and they work with policymakers at all levels of government to promote ocean conservation.

Due to the high costs here in the islands for the purchase, maintenance, and moorage of boats ODA-Hawaii relies on partnerships with local dive shops on each of the islands they service. The dive shops provide usage of their boats and connections with enthusiastic volunteers who want to give back and care for their local waterways.

ODA is a valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about ocean conservation or get involved in protecting the ocean. They offer a variety of ways to get involved, including volunteering for cleanups, participating in educational programs, and donating to their organization.

Here are some of the ways you can help Ocean Defenders Alliance clean up Hawaii:

• Volunteer for a cleanup. ODA hosts regular cleanups of beaches, reefs, and waterways in Hawaii. You can sign up to volunteer for a cleanup on their website.
• Donate to their organization. ODA relies on donations to fund their work. You can donate to their organization on their website.
• Spread the word. Tell your friends and family about Ocean Defenders Alliance and the work they do. The more people who know about ODA, the more they can help to protect the ocean.

Click here to view the ODA website for more info

Together, we can make a difference for the ocean.

Get Involved!

by Honolulu Vibes