The University of Northern Philippines (UNP) demonstrates commitment to life below water through initiatives covering marine conservation, coastal ecosystem protection, disaster risk management, and environmental awareness. UNP directly engages in marine conservation through partnership with the Pagsanaaan Sur community for marine conservation programs, actively protecting coastal ecosystems and promoting sustainable use of marine resources vital to local communities. The University Research and Development Office led coastal clean-up and tree planting activities directly contributing to coastal ecosystem health and water quality, while the College of Architecture conducted coastal clean-ups addressing marine pollution and promoting the health of coastal environments. BS Mathematics and Master of Science students participated in coastal cleanups directly addressing marine pollution and protecting coastal habitats from degradation.

UNP launched Operation ERWIN (Environmental Recovery and Waves of Initiative for a New Beginning) on October 17, 2024, a major initiative focused on environmental recovery including restoration of marine and coastal habitats, with the program name's reference to "Waves" reinforcing the marine conservation connection. The university promotes disaster risk management crucial for protecting coastal communities and marine ecosystems from climate-related disasters through advocacy programs and knowledge-sharing initiatives focused on preserving heritage while managing disaster risks in coastal areas. The university's Biological Society celebrated World Earth Day raising awareness about environmental issues including the health of marine and coastal ecosystems, emphasizing the importance of protecting marine environments through student-led advocacy.

UNP fosters sustainable marine-based economic activities through education and competition participation. The College of Hospitality and Tourism Management achieved second place in the Longganisa Festival Cooking Competition under the Hotel and Restaurant Category, promoting local food and culinary arts aligned with sustainable fisheries and aquaculture by encouraging use of local and potentially sustainably sourced ingredients. A student sealed the Tikturismo 2024 championship, a competition promoting sustainable tourism aligned with fostering marine-based tourism that respects and preserves the marine environment. The Mechatronics and Robotics League inducted Ilocos Sur chapter officers, promoting innovation that could be applied to marine research, monitoring ocean health, or developing technologies for sustainable aquaculture. UNP was recognized at the prestigious ICONS Awards 2024 for overall sustainability efforts potentially including marine conservation work, demonstrating institutional commitment to environmental stewardship including protection of aquatic ecosystems.