james morioka

Executive Director

Hometown: Irvine, California

Current Residence: Kailua, Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi

James Morioka serves as the Executive Director for the Papahānaumokuākea Marine Debris Project (PMDP). With a focus on large-scale marine debris survey and removal operations in Papahānaumokuākea, James utilizes underwater freediving techniques to lead and manage these crucial efforts. With his upcoming 12th field season approaching, James boasts over 500 days of field research, conservation, and management activities since 2011 within Papahānaumokuākea. His expertise lies in team and program development, and he is enthusiastic about mentoring and cultivating the next generation of field researchers, conservationists, and ocean stewards. When he’s not busy saving the oceans from debris, you can find him with his wife, Emily, and daughter, Kelia, travelling, surfing, chilling at the beach, or at home with their two dogs, Kaya and Shai, and cat, Cat.