Now more than ever, our oceans need our help. Oceans regulate the planet’s climate system, and more than three billion people’s livelihoods depend on marine and coastal diversity. Yet decades of degradation have brought the oceans to a turning point. More than 100 million marine animals die each year from plastic waste, and the World Economic Forum estimates that by 2050 there will be more plastic in the oceans than fish. And time is running out: in the last century alone, we’ve lost 90% of big ocean fish. 

This alarming situation requires a renewed commitment to water sustainability. At PCL, sustainability is one of our core values, and we take pride in projects that improve the environment.

For example, in the City of Solana Beach, California, we made significant upgrades to the primary sewer pump station, located on the edge of the San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve. The reserve is one of the largest remaining coastal wetlands in San Diego County, and these upgrades helped mitigate the high risk of stormwater pollution, which can be harmful to the ocean. PCL has also worked on projects that divert effluent, which would otherwise end up in the ocean, for reuse in local industries and municipalities.

“Every water infrastructure project we build has some sort of connection to providing safe water in a safe environment for our communities,” said Mike McKinney, vice president and district manager for PCL’s Civil Infrastructure division. “It’s a passion for us because we know we’re providing a service to our friends, families, coworkers and neighbors. The projects we build are more than just projects – they’re partnerships with the communities and world we live in.”

PCL employees demonstrate this commitment in other ways, too. For World Ocean Day on June 8, they’re organizing beachside cleanups from California to Florida, tidying up the coastline while raising awareness about the risk to our oceans. 

Still, saving our oceans will require massive, widespread efforts. Only 7% of the world’s oceans are protected, and the most effective way to change that is through international cooperation. That’s why PCL is proud to support the 30x30 campaign from World Ocean Day, which encourages world leaders to protect 30% of our land and ocean by 2030. Sign the petition today and help create a more sustainable future for everyone.