Blue Eco Summit by Ocean Geographic
Blue Eco Summit will focus on the entire BLUE SPACE of our ocean as a force of nature and our gift of life.
7 - 8 NOVEMBER

Between Surface and Depth
The conference brings together subject matter experts to discuss on three core issues: High Seas Treaty, Blue Carbon and Deep Sea Mining.


In partnership with Ocean Geographic, Blue Eco Summit, anchored by keynote speaker Dr. Sylvia Earle, affectionately referred to in the industry as “Her Deepness”.
Dr. Sylvia Earle





Dr. Sylvia Earle
The conference agenda covers the key topics below

High Seas Treaty
This treaty aims to achieve a coordinated approach to establishing marine protected areas on the high seas (areas that lie beyond national jurisdiction), conserving ocean biodiversity and reaching the global community's “30×30” target to conserve or protect at least 30 percent of the ocean by 2030.

Blue Carbon
Blue carbon is the term for carbon captured by the
world's ocean and coastal ecosystems such as
mangroves, salt marshes and seagrasses.

Deep Sea Mining
Deep-sea mining is the process of extracting and often excavating mineral deposits from the deep seabed of depths greater than 200m. This seabed covers about two-thirds of the total seafloor. Research has concerns that deep-sea mining could severely harm marine biodiversity, ecosystems, and disturb carbon story systems.
Highlights of Blue Eco Summit

OGPICOTY Awards: Blue Carbon Portfolio and Video
CALL FOR SUBMISSION
Your chance to win an expedition to the High Arctic on MV Sylvia Earle.
This is your opportunity to harness your creativity for climate action. The ocean holds 60 times more carbon than the atmosphere and absorbs nearly 31% of carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions from human activities, which would otherwise trap heat and raise global temperatures. This makes the ocean essential for understanding the global carbon cycle and our future climate.
BLUE CARBON Pictures (portfolio of 3 pictures)
BLUE CARBON Vision (30 to 60 sec video)
These prestigious awards will be presented by Dr Sylvia Earle at Blue Eco Summit. Join us in highlighting the critical role of the ocean in climate regulation.
The Award of Excellence winner of these two categories will be included in the selection of the 2024 OGPICOTY MASTER OF COMPETITION Award to win an expedition to the Arctic on MV Sylvia Earle by Aurora Expeditions.
Don't miss this chance to contribute to a sustainable future and win an unforgettable adventure!
Submit your work and contribute to raising awareness and inspiring action for a sustainable future at https://ogpicoty.ogsociety.org/blue-carbon

Book Launch of SOULS — Stories of Our Underwater Legends
SOULS is the memoir of six extraordinary individuals whose lives have been deeply intertwined with our ocean. These overachievers have set countless records, have achieved many firsts and pioneered groundbreaking achievements that have never been done before.
Introduced by Dr. Carden Wallace A.M., renowned for her team’s discovery of the mass spawning of reef-building corals on the Australian Great Barrier Reef, SOULS is a rare gem that encapsulates the talents, dreams, and mental journeys of a unique group of ocean explorers. Scientists? Geniuses? Maybe both. These are individuals who, knowingly or unknowingly, have guided so many others into the joys and challenges of a life dedicated to the ocean. In this new book, you will immerse yourself in their interconnected stories —stories shaped by admiration, serendipitous encounters, and their shared love for our ocean.
In essence, this is the behind-the-scenes tale of how National Geographic “went underwater.” It also offers an intimate look at the global collaborative efforts in underwater research and the passion that unites those who explore "what lives down there."
SOULS is yet another first - it is the first-ever memoir of Sylvia Earle, Michael AW, David Doubilet, Jennifer Hayes, Richard Pyle and Brian Greene.
7 November, 4.3p0m

World Premiere of "2099: Power in Us"
Our planet stands on the edge of a devastating tipping point. The Thwaites Glacier in Antarctica, the "Doomsday Glacier," is disintegrating terrifyingly. Scientists warn, that when it collapses, which could happen in the next decade or the next few years, the global sea level could rise by two meters, wiping out coastal cities and reshaping the world as we know it. The consequences for humanity would be catastrophic.
In an attempt to avert this disaster, 120 extraordinary individuals ventured into the southernmost reaches of our planet, embarking on a daring mission to document the remains of the Antarctic in the time of climate change. These Climate Avengers, recognise the gravity of the moment; time is running out to prevent severe ravages by rising seas. Amidst an uncertain time. there is still hope.
"2099: Power in Us" chronicles the awe-inspiring journey of these Climate Avengers and their relentless determination to find solutions to mitigate the climate crisis. This powerful film showcases their fight to change the current trajectory that threatens to lead us toward a catastrophic 2099—a future where our planet may no longer be habitable.
This is more than just a documentary film. It's a rallying cry for action, courage and unity. Narrated by Times’s first hero of our planet, Dr Sylvia Earle this film reminds us that we have the power to make a difference, to repair and to preserve a habitable planet for future generations. Every act of awareness, every step toward change, embodies the strength within us to alter the course toward Armageddon.
"2099: Power in Us" is a story of hope, courage, and the power of humanity to save itself—and the Ocean planet we call home.
Together, we still have a chance. Join us for the World Premiere. You can be part of the Action.
7 November, 6pm


Michael Aw

Richard Bailey

Jessica Novia

Nithiya Laila

Professor Peter Harrison
Speakers at Blue Eco Summit
Sylvia Earle, Ph.D.
Oceanographer & Explorer, Time Magazine’s First Hero for the Planet
Michael Aw
Founder of Ocean Geographic, Asian Geographic, Deep Hope
Esther An
Chief Sustainability Officer, City Developments Limited (CDL),
TIME100 Climate Leaders in Business 2023
Richard Bailey
Founder of Tetiaroa Society, Blue Climate Initiative
Mickey Rogers, Ph.D.
Co-founder of Sustainable Ocean Alliance Pacific Northwest
Prof. Peter Harrison
Distinguished Professor, Founding Director of Marine Ecology Research Centre
Toh Tai Chong, Ph.D.
Senior Lecturer, National University of Singapore
Ana Blanco
Executive Director
Member, Board of Directors of International Ocean Film Foundation
Nithiya Laila
TV Presenter,
Founder of Brunch Bandits
Quentin Fouesnant
Founder of Qanopy Consulting, Sustainability & ESG Advisor
Devira Nur Maulina
Brand & Communications Manager of CarbonEthics
Audrey Tan
Assistant News Editor, The Straits Times
Luis Neves, Ph.D.
Assistant Vice-President, Marine Zoological Operations at S.E.A. Aquarium, Singapore
Gretchen C. Coffman, Ph.D.
Senior Lecturer, Department of Geography
Associate Director, Bachelors of Environmental Studies
National University of Singapore
Kong Man Jing
Co-founder of Just Keep Thinking
Sam Shu Qin
Marine Scientist at National University of Singapore
Alex Rose
Science Editor of
Ocean Geographic
Tom
Peacock-Nazil
Founder & CEO of
Seven Clean Seas
Speakers at Blue Eco Summit
Dr. Sylvia Earle PhD
Oceanographer & Explorer, Time Magazine’s First Hero for the Planet
Michael Aw
Founder of Ocean Geographic, Asian Geographic, Deep Hope
Esther An
Chief Sustainability Officer, City Developments Limited (CDL),
TIME100 Climate Leaders in Business 2023
Richard Bailey
Founder of Tetiaroa Society, Blue Climate Initiative
Mickey Rogers, PhD
Co-founder of Sustainable Ocean Alliance Pacific Northwest
Professor Peter Harrison
Distinguished Professor, Founding Director of Marine Ecology Research Centre
Dr Toh Tai Chong
Senior Lecturer, National University of Singapore
Sheree Marris
Marine Biologist, Science Communicator, Author & Public Speaker
Nithiya Laila
TV Presenter, Founder of Brunch Bandits
Quentin Fouesnant
Founder of Qanopy Consulting, Sustainability & ESG Advisor
Jessica Novia
Founder of CarbonEthics
Speakers at
Blue Eco Summit
Dr. Sylvia Earle, Ph.D.
Founder of Mission Blue, Deep Hope Inc
Michael Aw
Founder of Ocean Geographic, Asian Geographic, Deep Hope
Esther An
Chief Sustainability Officer, City Developments Limited (CDL),
TIME100 Climate Leaders in Business 2023
Richard Bailey
Founder of Tetiaroa Society, Blue Climate Initiative
Dr. Mickey Rogers, Ph.D.
Co-founder of Sustainable Ocean Alliance Pacific Northwest
Prof. Peter Harrison
Distinguished Professor, Founding Director of Marine Ecology Research Centre
Dr. Toh Tai Chong, Ph.D.
Senior Lecturer, National University of Singapore
Ana Blanco
Executive Director and Member, Board of Directors of International Ocean Film Foundation
Nithiya Laila
TV Presenter, Founder of Brunch Bandits
Quentin Fouesnant
Founder of Qanopy Consulting, Sustainability & ESG Advisor
Jessica Novia
Founder of CarbonEthics and Bumi Journey
Audrey Tan
Assistant News Editor, The Straits Times
Dr. Luis Neves, Ph.D.
Assistant Vice-President, Marine Zoological Operations at S.E.A. Aquarium, Singapore
Dr. Gretchen C. Coffman, Ph.D.
Senior Lecturer, Department of Geography, Associate Director, Bachelors of Environmental Studies, National University of Singapore
Kong Man Jing
Co-founder of Just Keep Thinking
Sam Shu Qin
Marine Scientist at National University of Singapore
Alex Rose
Science Editor for Ocean Geographic
Tom Peacock-Nazil
Founder & CEO of Seven Clean Seas
Speakers' Topics and Summary

Dr. Sylvia Earle, Ph.D.
Deep Sea, Ocean Sustainability, Blue Carbon
Summary to be confirmed soon.

Michael Aw
Ocean Signals: A Visual Report Card on the State of Our Seas—From Antarctic Ice to Arctic Waters, Surface to Depths
Summary to be confirmed soon.

Richard Bailey
A HONU World: Science, Sustainable Travel, and the Twilight Zone
Join visionary entrepreneur Richard Bailey, creator of The Brando resort, for an exclusive talk that will take you on a journey into one of Earth’s last unexplored frontiers: the mesopelagic zone. Beneath the waves lies a twilight realm where life defies imagination, and now, Richard is setting his sights on unlocking its secrets. At the intersection of science and luxury, discover how curious minds and cutting-edge technology are coming together to safely open this mysterious world to a broad public. Learn about Honu, a new class of human occupied submersible that symbolizes hope and a gateway to the unknown.

Dr. Mickey Rogers, Ph.D.
Microscopic Science to Mobilizing the Masses: A Youth-Led Approach to Deep-Sea Conservation
Dr. Mickey Rogers is an Atmospheric Chemist and Youth Ocean Leader that studies the relationship between our ocean and climate. In her talk, she will summarize a new field of airborne algae, connect ocean and climate by describing the biological pump, and highlight the global-to-local work being led by Sustainable Ocean Alliance (SOA) including funding the United States’ first Deep Sea Conservation Festival. SOA is the world’s largest network of young ocean leaders and educates young people about ocean science and deep-sea mining, sparking grassroots movements in more than 40 countries. SOA is also mobilizing young people to value the deep sea and call for its protection through its localized Hubs. SOA Pacific Northwest, co-founded by Mickey in Washington State and Maria Cristina Alvarez Rodriguez and Genevieve Coblentz-Strong in Oregon State, has led numerous advocacy efforts including participating in the youth leadership summit at the Our Ocean Conference in Panama engaging in direct conversations with White House officials and Global Ambassadors to discuss intergenerational ocean efforts, training ocean leaders to effectively lobby during Capitol Hill Ocean Week, and planning the inaugural Deep Sea Conservation Festival (August 2024) in Seattle to bring awareness to the vitality of the deep. With a scientific approach, SOA is at the forefront of youth leadership, raising public awareness and educating stakeholders on the potential risks and uncertainties associated with deep-sea mining.

Prof. Peter Harrison
Sex, Death and Coral Reef Restoration
Coral reefs are globally important centres of biodiversity that provide goods and services worth $ trillions including essential food resources for hundreds of millions of people. Accelerating loss of reef-building corals is degrading reefs and overwhelming natural resilience and recovery processes. Reduced coral cover and loss of breeding corals diminish larval supply and recruitment processes essential for coral and reef recovery. This presentation highlights innovative methods for reef-based coral larval restoration using mass larval production to successfully restore coral communities on damaged reefs. New research is enabling increased scales of successful larval restoration and renewal of breeding corals and increased fish populations within 2-3 years, and these approaches are being scaled up with local stakeholders in multiple regions around the world.

Dr. Toh Tai Chong, Ph.D.
Blue Carbon and Community Impact
The global surge in carbon prices, along with the rising demand for carbon offsets to achieve corporate net-zero targets, have increased the projected value for blue carbon projects. The International Finance Corporation (IFC) posits that the value will continue to rise steeply in this decade and interests in blue carbon financing will remain high. However, a critical challenge in the implementation of blue carbon project lies with the difficulty in identifying and developing community-based conservation projects. As a marine conservationist, I have had the opportunity to partner local communities in Southeast Asia to develop projects that create sustainable change and community impact. “Stories from the field” is a talk that highlights the learning points of my work in the community, and a projection of potential opportunities for project funders, conservation scientists and community developers to work together.

Nithiya Laila
Fruits of the Tide: Eating with a Purpose for Ocean Conservation
We delve into the socio-economic forces that have elevated fish to a symbol of wealth and nutrition across civilisations. As cold supply chains and improved logistics brought fish to even the most landlocked communities, demand surged, leading to overfishing and the widespread use of heavy trawlers, placing immense pressure on our marine ecosystems. With the global fish market now worth 159 billion USD and trading over 179 million tonnes annually, the popularity of species like tuna, cod, and salmon has surged, making them dietary staples worldwide and threatening their survival. Through the lens of culinary anthropology, we’ll explore the historical significance of fish in our diets and how embracing sustainable practices with seaweed and bivalves can help protect ocean life. By reimagining our consumption of the ocean’s bounty, we can pave the way for a healthier future for both marine ecosystems and ourselves.

Quentin Fouesnant
Blue Carbon: Getting Companies Onboard With Ocean-Based Climate Solutions
This session will introduce the concept of blue carbon, exploring its critical role in mitigating climate change and how it differs from terrestrial carbon. The presentation will also examine the current level of participation by companies in blue carbon initiatives and why this emerging field is crucial for businesses striving to enhance their sustainability practices. Learn how your organization can contribute to ocean-based climate solutions without falling into the trap of greenwashing. This talk will provide practical insights and actionable steps for integrating blue carbon strategies into your sustainability initiatives.

Jessica Novia
Blue Carbon Rehabilitation for Climate and Coastal Community Resilience
This session will emphasize the concept of blue carbon and its critical role in climate action. By focusing on mangrove forests—key blue carbon ecosystems—attendees will learn about their capacity to sequester carbon, enhance coastal resilience, and support biodiversity. The session will highlight blue carbon restoration projects in Indonesia and community development initiatives, demonstrating how protecting and restoring these vital ecosystems can support climate action.

Dr. Gretchen C. Coffman, Ph.D.
Blue Carbon and Beyond: Community-led Mangrove Restoration
Mangrove ecosystems are pivotal in the global blue carbon framework, offering essential ecosystem services such as carbon sequestration, coastal protection, and biodiversity support. However, these ecosystems are under threat from anthropogenic pressures, necessitating innovative restoration approaches that prioritize resilience and community involvement. I argue that we need to integrate the resilience concept into community-led mangrove restoration projects across Southeast Asia. By engaging local communities and incorporating their traditional knowledge with scientific practices, projects have successfully enhanced the resistance, recovery, and reorganization capabilities of mangrove ecosystems. Key strategies include meaningful community engagement, expansion of monitoring indicators, and upscaling restoration efforts across spatial and temporal scales. I will present case studies to demonstrate how local stewardship, combined with resilience-based approaches, leads to more sustainable and adaptive restoration outcomes. These findings underscore the importance of community-led initiatives in achieving the dual goals of ecosystem restoration and climate change mitigation, contributing significantly to global blue carbon efforts and the broader objectives of the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration.
Conference Programme
Attendees' Registration & Morning Networking Session
Welcome Note by Evonne Fouesnant
Session 1 by Michael Aw – Tears of our Ocean - from surface to full ocean depth, from Arctic to Antarctic
Summary to be updated soon.
Session 2 by Richard Bailey – A HONU World: Science, Sustainable Travel, and the Twilight Zone
Join visionary entrepreneur Richard Bailey, creator of The Brando resort, for an exclusive talk that will take you on a journey into one of Earth’s last unexplored frontiers: the mesopelagic zone. Beneath the waves lies a twilight realm where life defies imagination, and now, Richard is setting his sights on unlocking its secrets. At the intersection of science and luxury, discover how curious minds and cutting-edge technology are coming together to safely open this mysterious world to a broad public. Learn about Honu, a new class of human occupied submersible that symbolizes hope and a gateway to the unknown.
Break
Session 3 by Prof. Peter Harrison – Sex, Death and Coral Reef Restoration
Coral reefs are globally important centres of biodiversity that provide goods and services worth $ trillions including essential food resources for hundreds of millions of people. Accelerating loss of reef-building corals is degrading reefs and overwhelming natural resilience and recovery processes. Reduced coral cover and loss of breeding corals diminish larval supply and recruitment processes essential for coral and reef recovery. This presentation highlights innovative methods for reef-based coral larval restoration using mass larval production to successfully restore coral communities on damaged reefs. New research is enabling increased scales of successful larval restoration and renewal of breeding corals and increased fish populations within 2-3 years, and these approaches are being scaled up with local stakeholders in multiple regions around the world.
Session 4 by Mickey Rogers, PhD – Microscopic Science to Mobilizing the Masses: A Youth-Led Approach to Deep-Sea Conservation
Dr. Mickey Rogers is an Atmospheric Chemist and Youth Ocean Leader that studies the relationship between our ocean and climate. In her talk, she will summarize a new field of airborne algae, connect ocean and climate by describing the biological pump, and highlight the global-to-local work being led by Sustainable Ocean Alliance (SOA) including funding the United States’ first Deep Sea Conservation Festival. SOA is the world’s largest network of young ocean leaders and educates young people about ocean science and deep-sea mining, sparking grassroots movements in more than 40 countries. SOA is also mobilizing young people to value the deep sea and call for its protection through its localized Hubs. SOA Pacific Northwest, co-founded by Mickey in Washington State and Maria Cristina Alvarez Rodriguez and Genevieve Coblentz-Strong in Oregon State, has led numerous advocacy efforts including participating in the youth leadership summit at the Our Ocean Conference in Panama engaging in direct conversations with White House officials and Global Ambassadors to discuss intergenerational ocean efforts, training ocean leaders to effectively lobby during Capitol Hill Ocean Week, and planning the inaugural Deep Sea Conservation Festival (August 2024) in Seattle to bring awareness to the vitality of the deep. With a scientific approach, SOA is at the forefront of youth leadership, raising public awareness and educating stakeholders on the potential risks and uncertainties associated with deep-sea mining.
Session 5 by Esther An – Harmonising the Built Environment with Ocean Conservation
In a world where urban expansion and environmental stewardship often seem at odds, discover a visionary approach to integrating ocean-friendly practices into land development and management. The ocean, covering over 70% of our planet, plays a crucial role in regulating Earth's climate and sustaining life. It supports nearly 3 billion people by providing food, jobs, and income, with trade in ocean-based goods and services valued at over US$2.5 trillion annually. As Dr. Sylvia Earle poignantly states, "No water, no life. No blue, no green," underscoring the urgent need for ocean protection as we approach a critical tipping point. Discover how proactive planning in the building sector can transform potential conflicts into opportunities for synergy, significantly contributing to ocean conservation. Gain insights into how CDL’s policies and practices align with and contribute towards the achievement of United Nation Sustainable Development Goals 14 (life below water) and 15 (life on land). Explore innovative design principles and strategies that not only embrace sustainable practices but also actively support ocean health.
Session 6 by Tom Peacock-Nazil – Tackling Ocean Plastic with Plastic Credits
Summary to be updated soon.
Lunch
Closed-door Session with Dr. Sylvia Earle: Inspiring the Future Generation
For premium package conference attendees only.
Video Presentation by Anna Oposa
2023 Blue Water Heroes: Save Philippine Seas
Session 7 by Toh Tai Chong, PhD – Stories from the Field: Blue Carbon and Community Impact
The global surge in carbon prices, along with the rising demand for carbon offsets to achieve corporate net-zero targets, have increased the projected value for blue carbon projects. The International Finance Corporation (IFC) posits that the value will continue to rise steeply in this decade and interests in blue carbon financing will remain high. However, a critical challenge in the implementation of blue carbon project lies with the difficulty in identifying and developing community-based conservation projects. As a marine conservationist, I have had the opportunity to partner local communities in Southeast Asia to develop projects that create sustainable change and community impact. “Stories from the field” is a talk that highlights the learning points of my work in the community, and a projection of potential opportunities for project funders, conservation scientists and community developers to work together.
Session 8 by Kong Man Jing – #SciTok: Communication & Education for Ocean Conservation in the Digital Age
This session explores the dynamic landscape of conservation communication of our ocean through social media, emphasising its pivotal role in bridging the gap between the scientific community and the public. Through a captivating journey, she will illustrate how social media platforms serve as invaluable channels for disseminating scientific knowledge in an engaging and accessible manner. By leveraging storytelling, visual content, and interactive features, MJ will demonstrate the versatility of platforms such as Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok in reaching diverse audiences and fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for science. This talk highlights the significance of effective science communication and its transformative impact in inspiring curiosity, sparking dialogue, and empowering individuals to make informed decisions. MJ hopes this will serve as a compelling call to action for all to embrace social media as a powerful tool for advancing ocean communication and education, ultimately working towards a more informed, engaged, and scientifically literate society.
Session 9 by Gretchen C. Coffman, Ph.D. – Visual Storytelling with a Purpose
The power of film to inspire change and better understanding is the basis of a well-made documentary. Each of us have a specific film that was so impactful it remains etched in our minds forever. Not only can we see it in our mind’s eye, but we can also feel how much it moved us, almost as if we saw it yesterday.
Panel Discussion – Future of Coral Reefs in Time of Climate Change: What will become of the reefs we know in 2050?
Panelists include Prof. Peter Harrison, Michael Aw, Toh Tai Chong, PhD and Sam Shu Qin. Moderated by Kong Man Jing.
Break
Book Launch of SOULS – Stories of Our Underwater Legends
SOULS is the memoir of six extraordinary individuals whose lives have been deeply intertwined with our ocean. These overachievers have set countless records, have achieved many firsts and pioneered groundbreaking achievements that have never been done before.
Break
World Premiere of "2099: Power in Us
"2099: Power in Us" chronicles the awe-inspiring journey of these Climate Avengers and their relentless determination to find solutions to mitigate the climate crisis. This powerful film showcases their fight to change the current trajectory that threatens to lead us toward a catastrophic 2099—a future where our planet may no longer be habitable.
Travel to S.E.A. Aquarium
Travel to S.E.A. Aquarium. Shuttle bus provided for delegates who are not driving.
Blue Water EduFest Welcome Cocktail
Hosted at and by S.E.A. Aquarium
Morning Coffee and Tea
Overview by Evonne Ong
Session 10 by Luis Neves, PhD – Saving our Planet Water: It’s Everyone’s Responsibility
The concept of zoological institutions – zoos and aquariums – has evolved tremendously over the years. Today’s modern institutions serve an essential role in society serving as hubs for conservation, environmental advocacy and assurance arks for species. They work in tandem with other like-minded partners to achieve maximum impact by their conservation, research and outreach actions.
Session 11 by Quentin Fouesnant – Blue Carbon: Getting Companies Onboard With Ocean-Based Climate Solutions
This session will introduce the concept of blue carbon, exploring its critical role in mitigating climate change and how it differs from terrestrial carbon. The presentation will also examine the current level of participation by companies in blue carbon initiatives and why this emerging field is crucial for businesses striving to enhance their sustainability practices. Learn how your organization can contribute to ocean-based climate solutions without falling into the trap of greenwashing. This talk will provide practical insights and actionable steps for integrating blue carbon strategies into your sustainability initiatives.
Session 12 by Audrey Tan – Bringing the Ocean to Life Through Storytelling
The ocean can sometimes be out of sight, out of mind for many people. But the ocean is important to human health and wellbeing in many ways, even for those who do not dive or go out to sea. Raising awareness of the importance of the ocean, and the threats confronting marine ecosystems, will be key to help people understand the urgency of action. In this presentation, hear how The Straits Times, a media outlet based in Singapore, is trying to bring ocean issues to life for the general public through different storytelling formats.
Session 13 by Nithiya Laila – Fruits of the Tide: Eating with a Purpose for Ocean Conservation
We delve into the socio-economic forces that have elevated fish to a symbol of wealth and nutrition across civilisations. As cold supply chains and improved logistics brought fish to even the most landlocked communities, demand surged, leading to overfishing and the widespread use of heavy trawlers, placing immense pressure on our marine ecosystems. With the global fish market now worth 159 billion USD and trading over 179 million tonnes annually, the popularity of species like tuna, cod, and salmon has surged, making them dietary staples worldwide and threatening their survival. Through the lens of culinary anthropology, we’ll explore the historical significance of fish in our diets and how embracing sustainable practices with seaweed and bivalves can help protect ocean life. By reimagining our consumption of the ocean’s bounty, we can pave the way for a healthier future for both marine ecosystems and ourselves.
Video Presentation by Oh Chu Xian
2023 Blue Water Heroes: Magorium
Break
Session 14 by Gretchen C. Coffman, PhD – Blue Carbon and Beyond: Community-led Mangrove Restoration
Mangrove ecosystems are pivotal in the global blue carbon framework, offering essential ecosystem services such as carbon sequestration, coastal protection, and biodiversity support. However, these ecosystems are under threat from anthropogenic pressures, necessitating innovative restoration approaches that prioritize resilience and community involvement. I argue that we need to integrate the resilience concept into community-led mangrove restoration projects across Southeast Asia. By engaging local communities and incorporating their traditional knowledge with scientific practices, projects have successfully enhanced the resistance, recovery, and reorganization capabilities of mangrove ecosystems. Key strategies include meaningful community engagement, expansion of monitoring indicators, and upscaling restoration efforts across spatial and temporal scales. I will present case studies to demonstrate how local stewardship, combined with resilience-based approaches, leads to more sustainable and adaptive restoration outcomes. These findings underscore the importance of community-led initiatives in achieving the dual goals of ecosystem restoration and climate change mitigation, contributing significantly to global blue carbon efforts and the broader objectives of the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration.
Session 15 by Devira Nur Maulina – Blue Carbon Rehabilitation for Climate and Coastal Community Resilience
This session will emphasize the concept of blue carbon and its critical role in climate action. By focusing on mangrove forests—key blue carbon ecosystems—attendees will learn about their capacity to sequester carbon, enhance coastal resilience, and support biodiversity. The session will highlight blue carbon restoration projects in Indonesia and community development initiatives, demonstrating how protecting and restoring these vital ecosystems can support climate action.
Session 16 by Sam Shu Qin – Waves of Change: Engaging Communities in Conservation
In this talk, Sam shares her journey in developing community-led initiatives focused on coral restoration and marine education. She emphasizes the vital role of community engagement in marine conservation and how collaboration can effectively safeguard our oceans. Sam will explore strategies to actively engage young people in these efforts, focusing on creating accessible platforms for involvement, enhancing ocean literacy and fostering marine stewardship. By showcasing successful ground up initiatives and drawing on her experiences as an educator, the talk highlights the potential for empowering communities and youth to take an active role in preserving our natural and cultural heritage for future generations.
Panel Discussion – Deeper Concern: High Sea Treaty & Deep Sea Mining. The Challenges, Truth & Myth.
Panelists include Sylvia Earle, PhD, Mickey Rogers, PhD, Richard Bailey, and Audrey Tan. Moderated by Alex Rose.
Lunch
No Schedule Found
No Schedule Found
The organizer reserves the rights to change or remove topics and speakers at any time without prior notice.