2007 Hometown Hero
Robert O’Brien - Newfoundland and Labrador |
Past Hometown Heroes |
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Under Robert’s direction, Ocean Net has attracted a network of over 15,000 volunteers in hundreds of communities throughout Newfoundland and Labrador, realizing the dream of a cleaner and healthier marine environment for all. The work of Ocean Net has been crucial not only to the ecology of the region, but to the well-being of a variety of stakeholders. In particular, the tourism industry is heavily dependent on a clean marine environment as a recreation resource, facilitating local business opportunities associated with hiking, camping, kayaking, whale watching, bird watching, and iceberg viewing. Robert understands the importance of Ocean Net’s work to those who work in this sector, especially with the decline of traditional fishing industries. Ocean Net has been acknowledged regionally and nationally for its commitment to this important environmental issue, and has developed their own award program to recognize their participants’ environmental stewardship. Perhaps its most enduring legacy is the designation of every third Friday in September as annual “Ocean Net Day,” by the Ministry of Environment and Conservation and the Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador. This remarkable feat ensures the ongoing engagement and learning of the community in ocean conservation. Robert O’Brien’s longstanding commitment to Ocean Net and the tangible benefits to the local environment and community that have resulted from it, demonstrate his commitment to sustainability.
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