Jon Baines is a program manager in the Ocean Program. He leads the Ocean Climate, Equitable Governance, and Aquatic Foods sub-program of the Ocean Program. He works closely with the pillar leads to develop and deliver measurable policy changes that harness ocean climate solutions to reduce emissions and coastal risk; data and technology to enhance IPs&LCs representation in 30x30 and marine spatial planning; and research and high-level convenings to advance the role of sustainable aquatic food in food system transitions.

Prior to joining WRI, Jon worked to bridge coastal population needs with government targets in Southeast Asia and Latin America to deliver effective and sustainable coastal resource management. In the Philippines, he developed and managed large-scale community-led blue carbon programs and equitable policy approaches to MPA implementation. In Indonesia, Madagascar, Belize, and Mexico he worked with fisherfolk and commercial fisheries to enhance fisheries management and develop sustainable coastal economies. In many of those countries, Jon has worked with dive centres and hotels to reduce the impact of tourism on the coastal economy and mobilise the diving community as a source of environmental leadership to overcome local pollution and plastic waste challenges.

Jon holds a MSc from the University of Edinburgh in Marine Science and Politics; a MSc in Biological Anthropology, and a BSc in Archaeology and Anthropology from Bournemouth University. In his free time he climbs, cooks constantly, goes for never-ending walks with Luna (the Golden Retriever), and reads as much as possible.