October is National Seafood Month, and we’re diving into the wonders of our oceans and coastlines to celebrate the local people and businesses that work to protect them.
The ocean plays a critical role in regulating the Earth’s climate by absorbing carbon dioxide and heat. Increased carbon emissions lead to ocean acidification and warmer waters, which negatively affect the growth and reproduction of species like oysters, salmon, and lobsters. Approximately 85% of the population in California live and work in coastal counties, and many Californians depend on jobs in the seafood industry, including fisheries, processing plants, and hospitality.
Conservation Efforts by Local Businesses
Conservation efforts like reducing carbon emissions and protecting coastal habitats help mitigate these impacts and ensure a stable future for the seafood industry and coastal communities. Choosing MCE’s Deep Green 100% renewable electricity service for your home or business can help. Businesses can go one step further and share their climate action stories by becoming a Deep Green Champion. Deep Green Champions like Inverness Park Market, Hog Island Oyster Co., and the Point Reyes National Seashore are setting examples of how businesses can support and participate in environmental sustainability through their business practices and choosing 100% renewable energy.
Locally Sustainable Seafood
Located in the heart of West Marin, Inverness Park Market is a community staple that sources fresh, sustainable seafood and local products, from flowers to coffee to cheese. By supporting local producers, the market contributes to the local economy and reduces emissions from transporting goods over long distances. They also use MCE’s Deep Green 100% renewable energy service to ensure that they’re running on clean, renewable energy while supporting local jobs and a healthy environment.
Sustainable Practices
Just 11 miles north of Inverness Park Market, and nestled in Tomales Bay, Hog Island Oyster Co. is a shining example of environmental stewardship in the seafood industry. Since its start, Hog Island has been dedicated to sustainable aquaculture practices by growing oysters in a way that enhances water quality and supports biodiversity. It is also a founding member of the Shellfish Growers Climate Coalition, a partnership between shellfish growers across the United States and The Nature Conservancy to inspire climate action now.
Hog Island powers its operations with MCE’s Deep Green 100% renewable energy service, which adds another layer to its sustainability efforts. By using 100% renewable energy, Hog Island helps reduce carbon emissions while contributing to cleaner air and healthier oceans.
Seashore Conservation
Without clean waters, balanced habitats, and thriving marine life populations, fisheries wouldn’t exist. Overfishing, pollution, and habitat destruction deplete fish stocks and harm the marine food chain, ultimately threatening the seafood industry.
Point Reyes National Seashore, managed by the U.S. National Park Service, is a crucial guardian of marine and coastal ecosystems. This protected area is home to many species, such as whales and sea otters, and is a significant sanctuary for marine life and wetland ecosystems. By being a Deep Green Champion, Point Reyes National Seashore is taking its commitment to preservation a step further, demonstrating how our most treasured public spaces can benefit from clean, renewable energy.
To celebrate National Seafood Month, consider visiting the Point Reyes National Seashore and stopping at Inverness Park Market or Hog Island Oyster Farm to support your local Deep Green businesses. MCE’s Deep Green service is just one piece of the puzzle to protect our planet.
Blog by Madeline Sarvey
