Helen Lockhart is the conservation and sustainability manager for the Two Oceans Aquarium in Cape Town, South Africa, where she has worked since 1995. Lockhart is currently responsible for managing the aquarium’s environmental impact. This includes developing and implementing the aquarium’s sustainability strategy, minimising its ecological footprint, and raising staff and public awareness around sustainability through communication platforms, exhibits and environmental campaigns.
“I feel a deep connection to the ocean and all of nature. It is my only home and part of my extended family. It is what gives me life. Although I grew up far away from the sea it has been an integral part of my life for the past 30 years as not only do I now live close to it, but I also work in the field of ocean conservation. The plants and animals of the marine realm continually astound me and teach me new things. I am also inspired by the many people who have dedicated their lives to protecting the ocean,” Lockhart said.
She recently contributed to and edited WAZA’s guide on reducing, measuring and offsetting carbon, which launched in October 2022. The guide was written by professionals in zoos and aquariums around the world. She also contributed to WAZA’s short guide on how to reduce single-use plastics at zoos and aquariums, and was a speaker at greenloop 2023.
Additionally, she is a member of the WAZA carbon subcommittee. Both guides are free to download and provide tips, guidance, advice and practical steps to follow. “The credibility of our messages and even the legitimacy of our existence is at stake if we don’t reduce our own emissions,” said Lockhart.