Charles Moore

Founder

Charles Moore founded Algalita in 1994 with a vision of protecting our natural resources, from land to sea. As an author, explorer, researcher, and philosopher, he is internationally known as one of the most influential environmental thought-leaders of our time.  His incredible ability to speak frankly, yet poetically, has led countless individuals to care about this issue. At Algalita, we aim to take the Great Plastics Awakening he sparked nearly 30 years ago to the next level.

Katie allen

Executive Director

As a young entrepreneur, Katie joined Algalita in 2010 to build a new set of dynamic programs aimed at empowering students and teachers across the globe. Her strong vision for the organization’s future led her to the helm of the organization, and in 2016, she took on the role of Executive Director. Driven by her passion for problem-solving, Katie embraces the challenges that come with nurturing a nonprofit in today’s world. She is captivated by Algalita’s mission, and is grateful everyday for the opportunity to lead such an authentic organization.

Anika Ballent

Education Director

Since joining the team in 2012, Anika has designed and led Algalita’s educational experiences. She finds inspiration in seeing the global shifts in thinking and awareness around the systemic issues of our time, and is keeping her eye set on the vast potential of our collective horizon.

Emily Wanous

Engagement Director

Raised amongst farms and ranches in Eastern Oregon, Emily has long held a deep relationship to the natural world. With a background in public policy and ecological education, Emily looks forward to supporting the collective efforts of the organization to protect our oceans and educate the next generation within her own present-day community of Long Beach and beyond. As Algalita’s newest team member, she was excited to join an organization with decades long wisdom and experience.

Trina Miller

Education Coordinator

Trina Miller is a Marine Biologist by trade and has an extensive background in marine debris research. The ocean has a special place in her heart as she is a Southern California native. They are excited to be a part of a passionate team and eager to help empower others in joining a noble cause.  

MOORE INSTITUTE FOR PLASTIC POLLUTION RESEARCH

Sister Organization

In 2020, Katie and Charles decided to establish a new sister organization that would investigate plastics pollution beyond the ocean environment. The dream was to develop a lab capable of analyzing nanoscale microplastics in tap water, air, soil, and consumer products. After Shelly Moore joined as Executive Director, the dream became a reality.

Today, Moore Institute is the first-ever accredited non-profit lab to test for microplastics in drinking water. They are also leading the effort to develop the first-ever open-source data system for tracking water quality. These are just two of many projects Moore Institute has taken on since its inception. Learn more at www.mooreplasticresearch.org

Photo: Shelly Moore, Charles Moore, Jenifer Burney, Lindsay Darjany, Gwen Lattin, and Dr. Win Cowger