The unsung heroes and innovators on the front lines of protecting the marine world and its future.
The latest episode of Rising Tide the Ocean Podcast turns its attention to the 2026 Peter Benchley Ocean Awards, held this spring at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. The awards bear the name of the Jaws author who, haunted perhaps by the monster he'd created, devoted much of the rest of his life to defending sharks and the seas they swim in. Founded nearly two decades ago by Blue Frontier and Wendy Benchley, and now carried forward under the Aquarium Conservation Partnership, the awards have earned a reputation as the Oscars of the Ocean — with more than 80 honorees to their name.
The 2026 class is a wide-ranging one, drawn from the halls of government, the depths of science, the world of commerce, and the next generation stepping up to inherit an ocean under pressure. This year's winners include Julie Packard of the Monterey Bay Aquarium, President José Manuel Bolieiro of the Azores, California Congressman Jared Huffman, deep-sea scientist Dr. Diva Amon, ocean-minded business Bureo, activist Marcé Gutiérrez-Graudins, the sweeping documentary Ocean with Sir David Attenborough, and youth honoree Coji Senanayake — proof that the movement to protect the blue heart of the planet is neither slowing down nor running out of voices.
These accolades, known as the Oscars of the ocean, were revived by the Aquarium Conservation Partnership and recognize exceptional contributions to ocean advocacy worldwide. Held at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, the ceremony honored an astounding array of individuals and organizations striving to protect our blue frontiers.
Reviving Ocean Advocacy: The Legacy of Peter Benchley
The awards honor the legacy of Peter Benchley, author of "Jaws" and a dedicated ocean advocate. Following his passing in 2006, Blue Frontier teamed up with his widow, Wendy Benchley, to establish these awards. This year's winners, including prominent figures like Julie Packard and Congressman Jared Huffman, embody the spirit of ocean conservation that Benchley championed.
Among the distinguished winners was President José Manuel Bolieiro of the Azores, celebrated for his leadership in creating one of the largest networks of marine protected areas in the North Atlantic. His efforts, in partnership with organizations like the Oceano Azul Foundation, aim to safeguard 30% of the ocean by 2030, reflecting a global commitment to marine conservation. Congressman Jared Huffman, another honoree, passionately addressed the challenges facing ocean conservation in Congress. From combating offshore drilling to promoting climate-ready fisheries management, Huffman emphasized the urgent need for stronger protections against industrial pressures threatening our oceans.
The Sustainable Business Award went to Bureo, a company transforming discarded fishing nets into valuable products. Co-founder Ben Kneppers shared their journey to collect over eight million kilograms of nets, reducing marine plastic pollution and showcasing how businesses can drive environmental progress through innovative solutions.
Youth winner Koji Senanayake from Sri Lanka inspired attendees with his climate advocacy initiatives, including Sea Green, which uses creativity to foster ocean awareness among young people. His efforts remind us that the next generation holds the power to drive meaningful change. Marci Gutierrez-Grudan, awarded for Excellence in Action, founded Azul Latin Ocean Justice Movement to ensure community voices are central to conservation efforts. Her mission is a testament to the power of grassroots action and collective resistance in shaping the future of our oceans.
Science winner Diva Amon, a deep-sea ecologist from Trinidad and Tobago, highlighted the mysteries of the deep ocean and the threats of deep-sea mining. Her work underscores the need for global collaboration in ocean exploration and protection. Sir David Attenborough's media award-winning documentary, "Ocean," aimed to inspire worldwide audiences through cinematic storytelling. His message is clear: "If we save the sea, we save our world."
Ocean conservation is a multifaceted endeavor that requires diverse voices and innovative approaches. The awards celebrate not just individual achievements but the collective commitment to a healthier, more sustainable ocean.
All ocean advocates, educators, and community leaders to continue the fight for our blue planet. Visit peterbenchleyoceanawards.org to learn more about the ceremony and support efforts to protect our oceans. Let us be inspired by these ocean champions as we strive for a future where our oceans and communities thrive together.