Underwater photographer raises ocean awareness ahead of World Ocean Day
Chicago native Alex Rose, an ocean advocate and underwater photographer, talked Tuesday with ABC7 about World Ocean Day on June 8.
World Ocean Day draws focus on just how important the ocean is to our lives. A healthy ocean is important because it generates most of the oxygen we breathe, helps feed us and even regulates our climate.
Since she was young, Rose has been a lover of all things aquatic. Now, at age 30, she is an underwater photographer, science editor for Ocean Geographic, managing editor of Ocean Geographic Explorers, PADI Divemaster, Explorers Club Fellow and professional violinist.
Her travels to the Galapagos, Cuba, Norway and the Arctic have been in support of her mission to enhance public understanding of the marine world and to find ways to protect the ocean realm through research, writing, conservation and education.
Rose has launching the Blue Ring initiative, which is a unique affordable worldwide conservation program where participants can pledge their commitment to protecting the Earth's ocean for future generations.
For $25 annually, a person can "mery" the ocean. For $10, kids 18 and under can become "Children of the Sea."
The first year's goal is to raise $5 million for two-1000 meter, dual-classed submersibles that will be used by world renowned oceanographer/explorer Dr. Sylvia Earle to reveal oceanic discoveries.
For more information, visit: www.bluering.blue
