Education, Innovation, and the Future of Ocean Conservation

Building the Next Wave of Conservation

The ocean economy is expanding at a rapid pace, and with it comes an urgent responsibility: ensuring sustainability while creating opportunities for future generations. For Jessica Harvey, CEO of the Guy Harvey Foundation (GHF), the path forward lies in education, collaboration, and innovation.

Jessica joined Katherine O’Fallon, host of the Blue Economy Podcast and Executive Director of the Marine Research Hub of South Florida, for a wide-ranging discussion on the role of education in ocean conservation, the importance of partnerships, and how new technology is reshaping marine science.

From Classroom to Conservation

Growing up surrounded by her father’s artistic and scientific work, Jessica Harvey’s fascination with wildlife began at an early age. Although she initially considered becoming a veterinarian, her career shifted toward conservation and education—first in terrestrial biology with the Cayman Islands’ Department of Environment, and later as project manager for the Guy Harvey Foundation.

“We were always outdoors… shown at an early age how to fish responsibly and dive. My fascination with wildlife started young, and I always knew I wanted to do something with it.”

Today, as CEO, Jessica leads programs that merge science and education, ensuring the foundation’s research is not only groundbreaking but also accessible to the public.

Expanding Access Through Education

One of the most significant evolutions at GHF has been the expansion of its education division. Partnering with Nova Southeastern University since 1999, the foundation has supported the Guy Harvey Research Institute (GHRI), producing more than 170 peer-reviewed scientific papers. But Jessica emphasizes that science alone is not enough.

“Research in silos does not help anybody. The challenge is communicating discoveries so the public understands why they matter.”

The foundation now invests heavily in documentaries, curriculum resources, and teacher workshops. During the pandemic, GHF accelerated digital learning tools, blending art and science to make marine education more engaging for teachers and students alike.

Technology and Innovation in Marine Research

From satellite tagging to artificial intelligence, technology is transforming how scientists study and protect marine life. Jessica points to advances in fish identification, bycatch monitoring, and data analysis as critical tools in shaping effective conservation strategies.

“AI is already making positive changes in research. The more we learn about it, the less fearful we become—and the more it can help us protect the oceans.”

For Jessica, technology is not a substitute for collaboration, but a catalyst to bring policy, business, and science together.

Building Careers in the Blue Economy

Education is not just about awareness; it’s also about preparing students for careers that connect to the ocean economy. From marine biology to boat engineering, data science to nonprofit management, the opportunities are vast.

GHF’s new marine career series aims to showcase these pathways, inspiring the next generation to see themselves in ocean-related roles.

“It’s not only about getting kids excited. Teachers are multipliers—when you equip them, they inspire every class year after year.”

Partnerships that Drive Change

The Guy Harvey Foundation has forged partnerships with organizations such as Brightmark, iCare, and Force Blue, expanding its impact across education, research, and conservation. Similarly, the Marine Research Hub of South Florida connects science, technology, and business communities to accelerate solutions in the blue economy.

Both organizations share a mission: fostering collaboration to break down silos and drive real change.

A Shared Responsibility

For Jessica Harvey, conservation is not about perfection but about progress.

“Nobody’s perfect when it comes to change. We have to encourage, not demonize. Everyone doing a little bit creates a multiplier effect.”

From research and education to careers and policy, the future of ocean conservation will be built on partnerships and applied knowledge. As Jessica notes, it is about turning science into action—and action into sustainable impact.