Nurturing Japan’s next generation of coastal protectors
05 / 27 / 2026
Return to BlogI’m honored to have my photographs featured in this National Geographic story highlighting the next generation of coastal stewards working to protect Japan’s marine ecosystems and cultural connections to the sea.
The piece explores how young people across coastal communities in Japan are learning through hands-on conservation, environmental education, and traditional knowledge to better understand and care for their oceans. From restoring coastal habitats to reconnecting with long-standing relationships between people and the sea, the story reflects the importance of empowering younger generations to become active protectors of the environments they call home.
What I find especially inspiring is the way this work brings together culture, community, and conservation — showing that protecting our oceans is not only about science, but also about preserving stories, traditions, and a sense of belonging.
You May Also Enjoy
Help Vital Impacts Meet the Match
I had the pleasure of speaking with the incredibly talented and thoughtful Mark Edward Harris from Make It Better Foundation about the power of a single image to impact our understanding of the world. At this critical moment for humanity, we cannot afford to feel overwhelmed or hope that someone else will address our challenges. [ … ]
Revitalizing Japan’s coastal ecosystems through satoumi, science & school
I’m honored to have my photographs featured in this National Geographic story exploring efforts to revitalize Japan’s coastal ecosystems through community-led conservation and restoration. The article highlights the growing movement to restore marine environments that have long supported both biodiversity and coastal communities. From restoring seaweed forests and marine habitats to reconnecting people with traditional [ … ]
Nurturing Japan’s next generation of coastal protectors
I’m honored to have my photographs featured in this National Geographic story highlighting the next generation of coastal stewards working to protect Japan’s marine ecosystems and cultural connections to the sea. The piece explores how young people across coastal communities in Japan are learning through hands-on conservation, environmental education, and traditional knowledge to better understand [ … ]
Could an ancient Hawaiian marine technology help depleted ocean ecosystems recover?
I’m honored to have my photographs featured in this National Geographic story exploring how ancient Hawaiian marine technology is helping restore ocean ecosystems and strengthen community connections to the sea. The article highlights the revitalization of traditional Hawaiian fishponds — Indigenous systems of aquaculture that have sustainably supported communities for generations while helping maintain healthy [ … ]

