Earth’s oceans cover over 70% of the planet’s surface, while driving weather, regulating temperature, and serving as a vital source of sustenance, transport, and commerce. In a “blue economy,” a sustainable marine environment serves to advance science and technology in a way that fosters economic opportunities and societal solutions. On this first of a two-part series, we speak with Dr. Peter de Menocal, director of the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, about the exploitation, preservation, and regeneration of this important ecosystem.