Hope Spots are special places that are critical to the health of the ocean — Earth’s blue heart. Hope Spots are about recognizing, empowering and supporting individuals and communities around the world in their efforts to protect the ocean. Dr. Sylvia Earle introduced the concept in her 2009 TED talk and since then the idea has inspired millions across the planet. While about 12 percent of the land around the world is now under some form of protection (as national parks etc.), less than six percent of the ocean is protected in any way. Hope Spots allow us to plan for the future and look beyond current marine protected areas (MPAs), which are like national parks on land where exploitative uses like fishing and deep sea mining are restricted. Hope Spots are often areas that need new protection, but they can also be existing MPAs where more action is needed. They can be large, they can be small, but they all provide hope due to:

• A special abundance or diversity of species, unusual or representative species, habitats or ecosystems

• Particular populations of rare, threatened or endemic species

• A site with potential to reverse damage from negative human impacts

• The presence of natural processes such as major migration corridors or spawning grounds

• Significant historical, cultural or spiritual values

• Particular economic importance to the community

The idea is that anyone can nominate a site special to him or her—a site that gives HOPE. Collectively, all of these Hope Spots will create a global wave of community support for ocean conservation that leaders and policy makers can’t ignore.