Healthy seas, resilient communities

Across the globe, coastal communities are taking the lead in transforming the health of our oceans. From small-scale fishers in Indonesia to women leaders in the Philippines, Rare partners with local champions to protect marine biodiversity, secure livelihoods, and build climate resilience—starting at the shoreline.

What are the territorial seas?

Learn why territorial seas – the thin band of ocean closest to shore — are vital for biodiversity and coastal communities globally.

What are sustainable small-scale fisheries?

Explore the principles and practices that ensure our fisheries can thrive for generations to come.

How does Rare help the ocean?

Dive into Fish Forever, Rare’s flagship program supporting community-led ocean conservation.

Stories from the coast

Explore an interactive map highlighting these inspiring stories from around the globe. Each marker reveals a powerful example of how communities across the Global South are leading ocean conservation efforts. These are just a few of our favorite stories from Rare’s fisheries and oceans work—touchpoints that represent broader, impactful change.

How We Protect Coastal Waters and Communities

Rare’s approach to ocean conservation is rooted in empowering people and strengthening ecosystems. By equipping communities with the knowledge, tools, and resources to steward their marine environments, we help ensure long-term sustainability and resilience. Our work spans leadership development, biodiversity preservation, sustainable finance, and innovation—all essential to protecting our shared ocean future.

Elevate Local Leadership and Enable Community-Led Conservation

Together for the Ocean: Empowering local leaders to steward ocean conservation.
Read this Op-ed

Lessons in Community-led Conservation: Watch how communities in Honduras are preserving marine life through collective action.
Watch the video

Protect Biodiversity in Coastal Seas

Discover how marine biodiversity is being safeguarded through community initiatives.

A Rare Biodiversity Story

Biodiversity in the Community Seas

Ensure Finance Reaches the Frontlines

Support efforts that channel essential funding to community-level conservation.

Expand Ocean Conservation Tools

Explore innovative approaches to coastal conservation.

Rare’s people-centered approach to 30×30

Rare and the Ocean Playlist

Meet our partners living on the frontlines of community-led ocean conservation.

Get involved

Whether you’re a policymaker, donor, advocate, or community leader, your voice and support matter. Join us in restoring coastal seas and empowering those who live alongside them.

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Vicky and Emilio wearing Rare t-shirts on a beach in Honduras.