Jason Momoa’s Dual Ocean Fight: How Aquaman and His Real-Life Activism Are Protecting the Seas

Jason Momoa’s dedication to ocean conservation spans beyond his iconic portrayal of Aquaman in the DC Extended Universe. While his role as the underwater superhero raises awareness about the ocean’s fragility, his real-life activism and entrepreneurial ventures underscore his commitment to protecting the environment, particularly the world’s oceans. With both on-screen contributions and off-screen initiatives, Momoa has positioned himself as a leading advocate for marine conservation, leveraging his fame to push for meaningful change.

On-Screen Contributions: Aquaman and Ocean Conservation

Momoa’s portrayal of Aquaman in Aquaman (2018) and Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom (2023) has been instrumental in bringing ocean conservation themes into mainstream cinema. The films center around Arthur Curry (Aquaman) confronting his half-brother, Orm, who plans to declare war on surface dwellers for polluting the oceans. This central conflict mirrors real-world issues surrounding marine pollution, particularly plastic waste and habitat destruction.

In interviews, Momoa has expressed his desire for the films to convey important environmental messages, noting that Aquaman acts as “a mirror of our society/modern times right now without being preachy” (Den of Geek). By incorporating ocean protection themes into blockbuster films, Momoa has used his platform to raise awareness about the ocean’s vulnerability. The movies not only entertain but subtly prompt audiences to reflect on their role in preserving marine ecosystems, making ocean conservation accessible through pop culture.

Off-Screen Activism: Advocacy, Entrepreneurship, and Education

Beyond the silver screen, Momoa’s commitment to ocean protection is evident in his extensive off-screen efforts. In 2022, he was appointed as an Advocate for Life Below Water by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). As part of this role, he delivered a powerful speech at the UN Ocean Conference in Portugal, emphasizing the ocean’s vital role in sustaining life on Earth. He stated, “The ocean is an ancient teacher, a guide and a muse. It is also existential. Without a healthy ocean, life on our planet as we know it would not exist” (The Independent). His words were part of UNEP’s broader efforts to combat climate impacts, pollution, and biodiversity loss, including the ongoing Clean Seas Campaign, which now spans 75% of the world’s coastline.

Momoa’s entrepreneurial venture, Mananalu Water, is a notable example of his commitment to practical, eco-friendly solutions. Launched in partnership with Boomerang Water, the company seeks to eliminate single-use plastic bottles by replacing them with reusable aluminum bottles. The closed-loop process, which involves cleaning and refilling bottles on-site, has achieved a 90% bottle return rate and reduces transportation emissions by 95% (Mananalu). This innovative system tackles the pressing issue of ocean plastic pollution while offering a viable alternative to traditional bottled water.

Documentaries and Product Collaborations

Momoa’s passion for ocean conservation extends into media production as well. He executive-produced and narrated the documentary Deep Rising, which highlights the dangers of deep-sea mining and its potential to devastate marine ecosystems. By using his celebrity status, he helps shine a spotlight on underreported environmental issues, encouraging viewers to reconsider the long-term effects of industrial practices on the ocean. The documentary, featured by National Geographic, contributes to raising awareness about the importance of protecting ocean habitats from human exploitation.

In addition to his documentary work, Momoa has also partnered with Humble Brands to create deodorant products with biodegradable, plastic-free packaging. This collaboration, which aims to reduce plastic waste, is another example of how Momoa uses his influence to promote sustainability through consumer goods. His work with both Mananalu and Humble Brands aligns with his broader environmental goals, reflecting his commitment to reducing plastic pollution both personally and professionally.

A Personal Connection to the Ocean

Momoa’s advocacy for ocean protection is deeply rooted in his personal connection to the sea. Born in Hawaii and raised in Iowa, he developed a profound respect for the ocean, a bond that was further nurtured during his childhood in Honolulu, where he learned to surf. His Polynesian heritage, with its strong ties to the ocean, shapes both his on-screen roles and his environmental activism. Momoa’s early education in environmental studies and marine biology, which included attending a camp in the Florida Keys, has provided him with a unique understanding of the ocean’s delicate balance, motivating him to use his platform for positive change.

A Multifaceted Approach to Environmentalism

Through his roles in films like Aquaman and his hands-on work with environmental initiatives, Jason Momoa has become a powerful advocate for ocean conservation. Whether through his portrayal of a superhero protecting the oceans or his real-life efforts with Mananalu Water, Deep Rising, and his partnerships with eco-conscious companies, Momoa demonstrates that protecting the planet requires both awareness and action. His combination of celebrity influence, entrepreneurial spirit, and genuine passion for the ocean has made him a leading figure in the movement to preserve marine ecosystems for future generations.