National Aquarium’s Post

There are many ways that individuals can help protect our ocean, from beach cleanups to plant-based diets. However, local, state and national governments can make larger-scale policy changes, like supporting renewable energy and limiting single-use plastic production. As #OceanMonth comes to a close and elections happen across the country, please consider using your voting power to elect officials who support conservation policies. Learn how to cast your vote for the ocean: https://bit.ly/4c6ZxEX

Kelp and sargassum and coccolithophores, oh my! 💚 These three types of algae are some of the ocean's unsung heroes. Algae are found in almost every aquatic environment and are at the base of the food chain, making them a crucial food source. Learn more about them: https://bit.ly/3KQp1uq

On June 15, Aquarium staff joined the Pride Parade lineup in Baltimore City to celebrate our community and staff. Staff passed out holographic stickers, blew bubbles, and were touched by the incredible support of the crowd and other parade members. 🏳️🌈 The LGBTQIA+ community has made critical contributions in conservation, research and marine science at the Aquarium and beyond. We are proud to work with and support this community and to welcome all people through our doors, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation. To keep our online space a safe place for all, please review our social media community guidelines: https://bit.ly/3xEV6Cu

🗑️ ♻️ 🚯 This July, zoos and aquariums across North America will participate in the Plastic Free Ecochallenge. This challenge lists dozens of ways you can help reduce plastic pollution, from replacing plastic goods with wood and metal alternatives to learning about fossil fuel policies. Participants can choose actions that best match their needs and lifestyles. We acknowledge that completely removing plastic from our lives is impossible. Instead, this Ecochallenge should help us embrace imperfection in sustainability efforts and inspire us to get involved with our communities and local governments. Register with the National Aquarium team by July 1: https://bit.ly/3Rzi4BM

Plant parents know how hard it can be to control pests. 🌱 At the Aquarium, our horticulturist uses an ingenious trick to protect our plants with the help of thousands of tiny mouths.

After two months of rehabilitation, the grey seal Kelpie is almost ready to be released! In November 2023, we opened the Stranding Response Center in Ocean City, MD. The distance from Ocean City to our Baltimore Animal Care and Rescue Center was a challenge for both the rescued animals and the response team members. With the new center, we can respond to the animals' needs more efficiently and effectively. Read more about our Ocean City response team: https://bit.ly/4b7HH3w

Welcome to the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. ☀️ The first day of summer, also known as the Summer Solstice, occurs when the sun is directly over the Tropic of Cancer. The word solstice comes from the Latin “solstitium.” "Sol" means sun, and "stitium" means to stand still.

On June 4, Governor Moore signed an executive order to advance an ambitious climate change plan focused on environmental and economic justice. This executive order will play a key role in meeting our state’s climate commitments while reducing pollution, creating jobs and ensuring a just transition to a clean economy. Maryland has one of the nation’s most ambitious emissions reduction goals, with a target of decreasing emissions by 60% by 2031 and reaching net-zero emissions by 2045. Thank you, Governor Moore, for your continued leadership in addressing climate change and ensuring a sustainable future for all Maryland residents.

Community partners, local organizations and volunteers headed to the Inner Harbor to help us plant over 39,000 grasses and shrubs on our 10,000-square-foot wetland. The countdown is officially on, with less than two months to go before we welcome the Baltimore community to join us and explore the wildlife already taking residence there. Learn more about our newest exhibit: https://bit.ly/4c3kwc4