This summer, I had the opportunity to work at the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) as the Blue Carbon Intern, joining the Ocean Science team under the direction of Kristin Kleisner, Mattias Cape, and Joyce Yager. My main project involved contributing to a threats assessment of the mesopelagic zone—a collaborative effort between EDF and the Ocean Conservancy evaluating the urgency of threats from climate change and future fishing activities.
When I began, I knew next to nothing about the mesopelagic zone, also called the ocean twilight zone. It’s a vast, deep layer of the ocean that plays a critical role in carbon transport and climate regulation, yet because of its depth, its existence and importance are largely out of sight and out of mind. I started my summer in “sponge mode,” soaking up everything I could about the mesopelagic zone – reading scientific papers, attending webinars, listening to podcasts, and having in-depth conversations with my supervisors. The more I learned, the more I realized how ecologically vital yet undervalued this part of the ocean is.
Mesopelagic or “twilight zone” exhibit at the California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco.
Once I built a strong foundation, my focus shifted to reduction fisheries – fisheries that catch small pelagic fish (like anchovy and mackerel) to make fishmeal and fish oil (FMFO), an ingredient used in aquaculture, livestock feed, nutraceuticals and even pet food. These fisheries are under growing climate pressure, and as stocks decline, there’s increasing interest in targeting the mesopelagic zone as a “new frontier” of fish to feed FMFO demand. For the threats assessment I researched four key reduction fishery species – Peruvian anchovy, Japanese anchovy, Blue whiting, and Chub mackerel – developing species profiles that synthesized how climate change is impacting their abundance, distribution, and population dynamics. Unfortunately, throughout my summer the picture became increasingly clear: these species will face major shifts with climate change, making mesopelagic exploitation an even more pressing issue.
I loved getting to live in and explore SF this summer!
Beyond the threats assessment, I also had the chance to branch out into other exciting projects. I co-wrote a proposal for a side event at the upcoming IUCN World Conservation Congress (WCC) in Abu Dhabi, working with Marine Conservation Institute and MIIS alum Elle Bent—an absolute highlight of the summer! Our proposal was accepted, and I will continue supporting its development into the fall. I also wrote an op-ed on the importance of mesopelagic protection and am helping organize a mesopelagic workshop at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute (WHOI) this November, which will bring together scientists and policy experts to identify knowledge gaps and chart pathways for mesopelagic conservation.
Some of the SF interns after receiving our EDF swag! And a snapshot of my remote work reality during a trip back to Vermont.
Looking back, this internship broadened my horizons in unexpected ways. It introduced me to a fascinating new ocean climate solution — one focused on safeguarding ocean processes that naturally regulate climate, rather than engineering the ocean to enhance that role (as mCDR approaches aim to do). This approach resonates deeply with my values, and I feel grateful to have worked in this space and excited to continue exploring how we can help the ocean help us. This experience also gave me a window into the realities of marine conservation work, and the kind organization and team I hope to join in the future. Most of all, it strengthened my sense of purpose in working at the science–policy interface, where I can help translate knowledge into action to advance ocean conservation and equitable ocean-based climate solutions.
Reflection Questions
What did you accomplish with your host organization? What was the impact of your work?
I contributed to EDF’s emerging mesopelagic conservation portfolio by developing reduction fishery species profiles for their threats assessment, producing an op-ed, helping secure a session at the WCC, and supporting the planning of a global mesopelagic workshop at WHOI. Together, these efforts strengthen the foundation for future mesopelagic conservation strategies and coalition-building, positioning EDF and its partners to shape this work at a critical and opportune moment—just as the High Seas Treaty (BBNJ Agreement) enters into force (which happens today!).
Describe the benefits of this experience for you professionally and personally.
This experience was invaluable both professionally and personally. I gained exposure to a new area of ocean-based climate solutions and deepened my interest in translating science into action, a space I feel increasingly drawn to. I discovered an organization whose values and approach I deeply admire, while also learning about the realities of ocean policy and marine science work. Through EDF’s internship program, I connected with inspiring colleagues and explored diverse projects across the organization, building insights that will shape my career at the intersection of marine science, policy, and climate action for years to come.
Did your experience provide any unexpected discovery, self-reflection, or epiphany?
From this internship, I learned how much I enjoy working as part of a team. EDF’s Ocean Science group felt like a close-knit family, and I loved collaborating both within the team and across the broader Oceans & Fisheries program. Their highly collaborative work showed me how much stronger projects become when people with diverse expertise and backgrounds contribute, and it gave me a chance to see the unique strengths each colleague brought to the table. Importantly, it also helped me recognize that, even early in my career, I bring valuable skills and perspectives of my own. That realization boosted my confidence and reinforced my commitment to pursuing a career in the collaborative, science-driven ocean conservation and climate solutions space.
Miles (another CBE Summer Fellow) & I on our last day! Thank you EDF!