At the heart of the harbor: supporting the Marine Mammal Care Center

In one of the world’s busiest port complex, APM Terminals Pier 400 is proving that running a world-class container terminal means caring just as much about the surrounding ocean as the cargo moving through it.

This year, that commitment has taken a powerful new step.

Jon Poelma, Managing Director of APM Terminals Pier 400, has been appointed to the Board of Directors of the Marine Mammal Care Center (MMCC) in Los Angeles. His appointment comes at a critical time, as Southern California grapples with a worsening crisis impacting local marine life.

A crisis growing just offshore

An unprecedented number of sea lions, dolphins, and other marine mammals have stranded along the Southern California coastline over the past year, the result of a toxic algae bloom fueled by warming waters and changing ocean conditions. Once considered rare events, these blooms are now happening with alarming frequency — turning into annual crises that threaten the health of the ocean ecosystem.

“This is no longer a once-in-a-decade problem,” said John Warner, CEO of the Marine Mammal Care Center. “This is becoming a yearly challenge, and the demands on our rescue and rehabilitation teams have never been greater.”

Why the ocean matters to APM Terminals

For APM Terminals, supporting the MMCC isn’t just about doing the right thing — it’s about recognizing that thriving ocean ecosystems are essential to the long-term health of the port and the industries that depend on it.

“We operate at the water’s edge every day,” said Poelma. “The health of these waters is directly connected to the health of our business, our people, and our community. Clean, vibrant oceans aren’t just good for marine life — they’re good for the economy, for sustainability, and for future generations of port workers and coastal residents.”

As a Board Member for MMCC, Poelma will help guide the center’s strategic priorities, provide governance oversight, support fundraising efforts, and leverage his connections within the port community to amplify awareness and advocacy for marine conservation.

Building on a year of partnership

APM Terminals began its partnership with MMCC in 2024, sponsoring a new rescue truck, supporting volunteer programs, and even naming two neonatal seals rehabilitated at the center. The terminal has renewed its sponsorship for 2025. But beyond financial support, both organizations have found in each other trusted partners equally committed to preserving Southern California’s marine environment.

“From the moment we began working with APM Terminals, it was clear this was a partner that truly understood the stakes,” said Warner. “In just a short time, we’ve been able to build real connections, foster trust, and roll up our sleeves together in service of this vital cause. Their support has made a direct impact on our ability to respond quickly and effectively to the growing crisis affecting local marine mammals.”

A call to the harbor community

As Poelma steps into his new Board role, he sees an opportunity for the entire harbor community — from businesses to residents — to get involved.

“These animals share this coastline with all of us,” said Poelma. “It’s going to take all of us to ensure the waters of Southern California remain healthy and resilient.”

To learn more about the Marine Mammal Care Center or to support its mission, visit: https://marinemammalcare.org

Because protecting ocean life protects us all.