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Laura Bankey

Vice President of Conservation Programs

National Aquarium

Laura Bankey, vice president of conservation programs at the National Aquarium, has consistently shown how aquariums can act as catalysts for meaningful environmental change while inspiring communities and shaping global conservation practices.

At the National Aquarium, she led efforts to restore ecosystems, focusing on urban coastal environments. She spearheaded the creation of the floating wetlands in Baltimore Harbor, which improve water quality, support wildlife, and reconnect residents with waterways. This project enhances ecological health and shows how urban restoration can engage communities and deliver environmental benefits.

Bankey’s leadership directs the Aquarium’s sustainability efforts, including its aim for net zero operations. She has assisted in implementing strategies to reduce emissions, enhance energy efficiency, and adopt environmentally conscious practices. This establishes the Aquarium as a leader in sustainability, encouraging other organisations to follow suit.

Beyond her achievements at the National Aquarium, she also chairs the Aquarium Conservation Partnership (ACP) Executive Committee, uniting aquariums across the country to address conservation issues. She promotes industry collaboration on climate change, ocean health, and plastic reduction, enhancing the impact of members.

A key aspect of her ACP leadership is promoting sustainable business commitments, urging aquariums to align with conservation values. These commitments—like reducing plastics and adopting green energy—are transforming their missions and business models.

Her work is rooted in community engagement, ensuring conservation programmes involve and benefit local people. Her efforts foster partnerships that bridge science, policy, and public input, making conservation more accessible and practical.

Through her leadership in habitat restoration projects such as the Baltimore floating wetlands, her innovative sustainability strategies, and her role in promoting collective industry action through ACP, Laura Bankey has made a significant impact on the future of conservation. Her vision shows how aquariums can set an example—restoring ecosystems, minimising their environmental impact, and motivating global change.