Rolex and National Geographic have announced the next stage of their collaborative Perpetual Planet initiative, shifting focus to marine ecosystems in 2025. This phase aims to address critical challenges facing the world’s oceans, including biodiversity loss, pollution, and climate change impacts.
The partnership, established in 2019, has already supported groundbreaking terrestrial research. Now, scientists and explorers will deploy advanced submersibles and satellite tracking to study vulnerable marine species, coral reef resilience, and deep-sea ecosystems. Expeditions will span the Pacific Ocean’s Coral Triangle, the Arctic’s melting ice zones, and overfished regions of the Atlantic.
Technology and Local Communities at the Core
Cutting-edge tools like AI-powered monitoring systems and biodegradable sensor tags will be used to collect real-time data. Rolex’s funding will also empower coastal communities through education programs and sustainable fishing initiatives. Dr. Sylvia Earle, a National Geographic Explorer-in-Residence, emphasized, “Understanding the ocean is no longer optional—it’s a lifeline for humanity.”
Parallel to fieldwork, the initiative will release a documentary series in late 2025, showcasing findings to global audiences. The data will be shared openly with policymakers to advocate for marine protected areas.
A Legacy of Environmental Stewardship
Rolex’s commitment to conservation dates to the 1950s, while National Geographic’s exploration heritage spans over a century. The Perpetual Planet initiative aligns with the UN’s Decade of Ocean Science, reinforcing the urgency of preserving marine life amid escalating threats.
