Philippe Cousteau

Explorer, Social Entrepreneur, Environmental Advocate

My family has a proud history in conservation and a particular passion for our oceans—the life support system of what my grandfather called “our water planet.” As a member of the third generation of Cousteaus who are carrying on the spirit of my family’s legacy, I have made it my mission to help people recognize their ability to change the world—through environmental advocacy, youth education, books, films, and even financial markets. I believe in the power of people to build a sustainable world, and laws like the Endangered Species Act have made my job easier.

President Nixon and the writers of the Act understood that protecting our nation’s native species is a vital part of preserving the fragile ecosystems that make up this great country. Part of preserving those species means ensuring that their habitats are maintained. It is this aspect of the law that speaks to me most strongly, and that most affects my work.

Given the growing impacts from climate change, that old phrase seems to ring true more than ever: We are all in the same boat. And, despite the climate events that have threatened our seas, I look to the words of my grandfather to guide me in my life: “If we were logical, the future would be bleak, indeed. But we are more than logical. We are human beings, and we have faith, and we have hope, and we can work.” With the help of groundbreaking legislation like the Endangered Species Act, I believe that we can protect our environment today, and for generations to come.


Download the entire book A Wild Success here.