John Fallon

John Fallon, director of sustainability and coastal conservation initiatives at the Audubon Nature Institute in New Orleans, is responsible for developing, managing, and supporting sustainability and conservation programs throughout the organisation, environmental policy, and green practice improvement.

He also leads Audubon Aquarium Rescue, which works to rescue, rehabilitate, and release injured sea turtles and marine mammals in the region, and represents the Institute within the Aquarium Conservation Partnership (ACP).

Whilst he has been in this role since 2017, he first joined the Audubon Nature Institute in 2008. His first role was as an aquarist and life support technician, during which he helped found Audubon Aquarium’s conservation committee. He then joined the Gulf United for Lasting Fisheries team, helping to establish the programme and working as a project coordinator, and later as its assistant director of education and outreach. This initiative continues to fall within his purview today.

A sustainable seafood programme, Gulf United for Lasting Fisheries, works across all five Gulf Coast states to help fisheries maintain and improve sustainability. It works across the seafood industry, from boats to restaurants, to promote sustainability standards and environmental stewardship, educate, and give a voice to the industry.

Additionally, in his work with the ACP, Fallon has played a critical role in aligning aquariums across North America to advocate for ocean-friendly policies, adopt sustainable operations, and leverage their collective impact for global marine conservation.

“A hallmark of John’s leadership is his focus on innovation,” says one nominator. “He helped spearhead the development of a sustainable seafood feed pilot program, in collaboration with ACP and AZA SAFE Sharks and Rays, to explore alternative feeds that reduce pressure on wild fish stocks while supporting the health of aquarium animals.

“This groundbreaking project addresses one of the most significant sustainability issues in aquaculture and has the potential to influence feed practices across the industry. By helping lead this initiative, John is pushing the boundaries of what aquariums can achieve in their commitment to ocean stewardship.”

Fallon has a master's degree in environmental management from Duke University and a bachelor's degree in psychology from Duquesne University.