Marine Market Systems
Focus Area

Conservation Science & Policy

Actionable Data and Analysis for Sustainable Use and Marine Conservation

Photo by The Ocean Agency / Ocean Image Bank

Bridging Science, Policy, and Finance

At Marine Market Systems (MMS), we work at the intersection of science, policy, and finance to build sustainable and inclusive ocean-focused economies. Our mission is to bridge the gap between coastal communities, data-driven conservation, and impact-focused investment.

We support governments, NGOs, and local leaders by generating clear, actionable insights into how marine ecosystems and markets interact. From fisheries and tourism to conservation finance and marine spatial planning, our work helps ensure that ocean management decisions are grounded in evidence and aligned with local needs.

We also collaborate directly with communities to co-develop solutions that protect marine biodiversity while enhancing livelihoods. Through storytelling, research, and technical design, MMS connects global capital with locally-led innovations—unlocking new opportunities for ocean sustainability, equity, and resilience.

Marine conservation research

Photo by Francois Baelen / Ocean Image Bank

Meet Our Conservation Science Lead

Our conservation science and policy work is led by world-class marine scientists with decades of experience.

Austin Humphries
Conservation Science Lead

Austin Humphries

President

About

Dr. Austin Humphries is President of Marine Market Systems. Dr. Humphries is a marine scientist specializing in sustainable fisheries management and coastal community resilience. With a Ph.D. in Marine Biology from Rhodes University (South Africa) and over 15 years of international experience, his research integrates ecological data with social and economic analysis to develop evidence-based solutions for complex marine resource challenges.

Featured Projects & Publications

Small-scale Fisheries Value Chains & Market Analysis

Leading research into small-scale fisheries value chains to identify market opportunities and improve livelihoods for coastal communities.

Mozambique Marine Market Assessment

Comprehensive market assessment of marine and coastal resources in Mozambique, providing critical insights for blue economy development.

Small-scale fisheries in the Western Indian Ocean

Published research examining the socio-economic dynamics and management strategies for small-scale fisheries across the WIO region.

Our Impact in Numbers

$100M+
Investment Mobilized
Structured and facilitated marine investments
15+
Countries
Global reach across marine ecosystems
50+
Technical Reports
Evidence-based policy recommendations
25+
Partner Organizations
Collaborative conservation network

Ready to Drive Marine Conservation?

Partner with us to develop evidence-based solutions that protect marine ecosystems while empowering coastal communities.

Marine Market Systems

Catalyzing sustainable nature-positive interactions with the ocean through innovative market solutions. Empowering coastal communities and protecting marine biodiversity for a thriving blue future.

Marine Market Systems (MMS) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit EIN 85-1114144

Made with for our oceans