SeaWorld San Diego has partnered with The Salvation Army and two Southern California colleges to create large-scale murals from recycled textiles, highlighting ocean pollution concerns ahead of World Oceans Day.
Students from Otis College of Art and Design and Santa Monica College will design and construct ocean-themed murals using end-of-life textiles donated by The Salvation Army. The murals will be unveiled Sunday, June 8, on World Oceans Day and displayed at the park's Dolphin and Sea Lion stadiums.
The project addresses textile waste, which generates 92 million tons globally each year. With 60% of new clothing made from synthetic fibers that contribute to microplastic ocean pollution, the murals demonstrate creative reuse of materials that would otherwise end up in landfills.
"As a leader in animal rescue and conservation, we believe in the power of education to drive meaningful change," said Tyler Carter, park president of SeaWorld San Diego. "These murals will not only be visually stunning but also carry a powerful message about sustainability and protecting our oceans."
SeaWorld will host a clothing drive June 8 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., with guests invited to donate clean, gently used or new clothing to a Salvation Army truck near the park entrance. Proceeds from thrift store sales fund programs that help people rebuild their lives.
"Through the use of end-of-life clothing that did not sell in our thrift stores—we're raising awareness that everything we throw away doesn't really go away," said Bianca Nemtoc, regional donations coordinator for The Salvation Army Western Territory ARC Command.
The collaboration provides students hands-on experience in sustainable design practices while raising awareness about ocean conservation.
"This is more than an art installation—it's a labor of love and a powerful symbol of sustainable creativity," said Jill Zeleznik, chair of fashion design at Otis College of Art and Design.
SeaWorld operates as an accredited zoo and aquarium, welcoming millions of guests annually. The company has helped rescue more than 42,000 marine animals and provided over $20 million through its conservation fund to nearly 1,400 organizations worldwide.
For more information and tickets, visit www.seaworldsandiego.com.
Edited by SMDP Staff