Bourton founded the Emerald Sea Protection Society as a platform to carry out research and recovery projects to protect the underwater environments along the Pacific Northwest Coast of Canada.  Working the vast coastline of BC as a commercial diver Bourton has experienced first hand the devastating effects of lost fishing gear and marine debris on underwater ecosystems. Eager to improve this situation, Bourton began applying his knowledge and experience to tackle the complex issue of lost fishing gear in Canada to help preserve the sensitive and unique underwater ecology.  

Gideon works with multiple NGOs and NFPs internationally, focusing mainly on data analysis, mapping and web application design. He supports ESPS by building online location collaboration tools, developing theoretical models of net and gear distribution and developing mapping tools track progress and build a crucial shared knowledge repository that can help multiple stakeholders. Gideon is a life long sailor and recognizes the value and unique beauty of the Pacific North West's marine ecology.

With the Emerald Sea Protection Society's collaboration with the GGGI (Global Ghost Gear Initiative), Gideon chairs the 'Build Evidence' working group, coordinating researchers from multiple organizations in their work to provide data and evidence relating to the issue of abandoned fishing gear.

Brooke Lees is a museum professional that specializes in exhibit design and content development. Her work is inspired by local history, contemporary socio-cultural issues and environmental concerns. Brooke uses design and thorough research to help make complex issues understandable and relevant to public audiences, and feels that a successful museum experience can challenge belief sets and foster change. She became involved as an ESPS board director to assist with graphic design and public awareness regarding the increasing marine debris issue - believing strongly that our actions on land ultimately affect the health of our oceans.

Ally developed a lifelong love for the water growing up on the shores of Lake Ontario and has been a passionate environmentalist for as long as she can remember. She began running anti-litterbug campaigns at age seven and remains dedicated to waste reduction initiatives today. Ally completed BSc and MSc degrees at UBC that focused on marine conservation, ecology, and fisheries science. Since then, she has worked in coastal communities across the globe with various NGOs and research projects focused on marine resource sustainability. While she has witnessed ocean degradation first hand, she has also seen the power of communities to make change.

Ally currently works on a coastal restoration project in Gulf Islands National Park Reserve and continues to battle litterbugs in her spare time via shoreline cleanups, stewardship activities, research initatives, (attempting) zero waste living, and spreading community awareness. Ally is thrilled to bring her scientific experience and passion to Emerald Sea.