Jean-Michel Cousteau Visits Sanibel to Speak on the Future of Our Oceans

SCCF’s McCarthy Memorial Lecture Connects Global Ocean Conservation with Sanibel’s Stewardship Legacy

Sanibel Island’s conservation leadership continues to attract some of the world’s most respected environmental voices. In 2026, the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) welcomed renowned ocean explorer, filmmaker, and educator Jean-Michel Cousteau to Sanibel as the featured speaker for the annual Paul McCarthy Memorial Lecture — an event dedicated to advancing environmental awareness and conservation leadership.

Cousteau’s message was simple yet profound: the future of people depends on the future of the ocean. His visit underscored how global ocean health is directly connected to local conservation efforts, including those taking place on Sanibel and Captiva Islands, where approximately 70% of Sanibel Island is preserved as conservation land.

The McCarthy Memorial Lecture Series on Sanibel

The Paul McCarthy Memorial Lecture Series, hosted by SCCF, honors the legacy of environmental advocate Paul McCarthy by bringing internationally respected scientists, conservationists, and environmental leaders to Sanibel each year to share knowledge and inspire action. The lecture series has become one of the island’s most meaningful conservation traditions, connecting residents, visitors, and environmental professionals with global perspectives on protecting natural resources.

This important annual event is made possible through the generosity of the Boler family, whose continued support ensures that the McCarthy Lecture Series remains accessible to the community and continues to elevate conservation dialogue on Sanibel and Captiva Islands. By sponsoring the lecture series, the Boler family helps strengthen SCCF’s mission to protect coastal ecosystems and educate future generations about environmental stewardship.

Jean-Michel Cousteau and the Ocean Futures Mission

Jean-Michel Cousteau has spent decades exploring the world’s oceans and advocating for marine conservation. As the son of legendary ocean explorer Jacques Cousteau, he began diving as a child and later built his own career as an explorer, filmmaker, and educator.

In 1999, Cousteau founded the Ocean Futures Society, an organization dedicated to exploring marine ecosystems and helping communities understand the connection between human survival and healthy oceans. Through documentaries, public speaking, and educational programs, Cousteau has worked to inspire global audiences to protect marine environments and recognize the ocean’s essential role in sustaining life on Earth.

Sanibel’s Conservation Model Impresses a Global Ocean Advocate

During his visit, Cousteau expressed admiration for Sanibel’s long-standing conservation philosophy — particularly the island’s commitment to preserving land and wildlife habitat. With roughly 70% of the island protected through conservation lands, preserves, and wildlife refuges, Sanibel represents a model of sustainable coastal planning.

These preserved areas include mangrove ecosystems, estuarine habitats, and wildlife corridors that help maintain biodiversity and protect water quality throughout the region. Sanibel’s conservation-first approach reflects the same environmental values Cousteau has promoted around the world — protecting ecosystems today to ensure a sustainable future tomorrow.

Why the Future of People Depends on the Ocean

Cousteau’s presentation emphasized the critical relationship between ocean health and human well-being. The ocean regulates climate, produces oxygen, supports fisheries, and sustains biodiversity across the planet. His message resonated strongly with the Sanibel community, where organizations like SCCF continue to lead scientific research, habitat restoration, and environmental education efforts throughout Southwest Florida.

A Shared Commitment to Conservation on Sanibel and Captiva

Jean-Michel Cousteau’s visit to Sanibel highlighted how a small barrier island community can play an important role in global environmental protection. Through conservation planning, nonprofit leadership, and community education, Sanibel and Captiva continue to demonstrate how environmental stewardship and community values can work together.

Thanks to SCCF’s leadership and the ongoing generosity of the Boler family, the McCarthy Memorial Lecture Series continues to bring world-class environmental voices to Sanibel — inspiring residents and visitors alike to protect the natural world that defines island life.

Photo: Eric & Mary Ellen Pfeifer, Jean-Michel Cousteau, Monika Lategano, John Pfeifer