Captain Paul Watson Foundation

The Captain Paul Watson Foundation is a U.S.-based nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting, intervening, educating, and raising awareness about ocean conservation. The foundation was founded by Paul Watson, a renowned environmentalist, along with tech entrepreneur Omar Todd in 2022. It continues the direct-action legacy of Paul Watson's previous organization, the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society.

Mission

The foundation's mission is built upon Captain Paul Watson's pioneering work against illegal poaching and the degradation of marine environments. It aims to intervene directly in marine conservation efforts, often adopting a rebellious stance against the status quo. The organization's activities include educating the public about marine issues and launching impactful campaigns to safeguard marine life.

Operations

The Captain Paul Watson Foundation operates with a minimal bureaucracy and a small dedicated team. Its operations are focused on making a tangible impact on marine conservation through direct action, unlike many traditional advocacy groups. This approach aligns with Captain Watson's previous work with Sea Shepherd, which was known for its confrontational tactics against whalers and other marine exploiters.

Recognition and Impact

Captain Paul Watson himself is celebrated for his contributions to environmentalism, having been recognized as one of the Top 20 Environmental Heroes of the 20th Century by Time Magazine in 2000, and more recently, being named The Conservationist of the Year 2025 by The Perfect World Foundation[1][3]. The foundation continues to inspire and mobilize efforts in marine conservation, building on the legacy of its founder.

Governance

The foundation's board of directors includes individuals such as Omar Todd and Stephen Petith, among others, who are responsible for overseeing its operations and ensuring its compliance with governance practices[4].