CHAMPIONING THE WORLD’S OCEANS OVER A PINT

It is time to repair and regenerate areas of the oceans humans have damaged and not take the vast ecosystems for granted, according to the Chief Executive Officer of the Western Australian Marine Science Institution who joins other marine scientists at a United Nations sponsored forum in Fremantle on 13 June to mark World Ocean’s Day (8 June).

WAMSI CEO Dr Luke Twomey said the community was becoming more aware of the importance of the world’s oceans and the risks they faced.

He will be joined on the panel at the Old Courthouse venue by Professor Jennifer Verduin, Pro-Vice Chancellor, College of Environmental and Life Sciences and Professor of Oceanography at Murdoch University, Dr Rebecca Wellard, Program Manager Ocean Conservation at Minderoo Foundation and Dr Oliver Jewell, Marine Scientist and Postdoctoral Research Associate at The University of Western Australia’s Oceans Institute.

“The ocean is responsible for important processes such the weather, carbon sequestration, and oxygen production,” Dr Twomey said.  “It is essential habitat for an incredible diversity of flora and fauna and is responsible for the dynamics and stability of our coastlines. When we damage it, we are dismantling our life support system.”

UWA Oceans Institute Director, Dr Christophe Gaudin, said ocean health was a critical issue for everyone.

“Ocean health must be addressed by our communities at large to safeguard the well-being of future generations. The creation of the panel and the expertise assembled within the panel are an important step in that direction.”

“Panels like these serve a crucial purpose in addressing the importance of the ocean within the global climate system,” Professor Verduin said.

Dr Wellard said Western Australia was fortunate to have the longest coastline in the country, but the privilege came with great responsibility.

“This event is an opportunity to bring together scientists, ocean conservationists, and ocean champions to discuss what we can do to support a resilient and sustainable ocean,” Dr Wellard said.

“There has never been a more important time for us to support the United Nations’ Ocean Decade. World Oceans Day and the events around it offers a platform to talk about the science we need to keep our oceans healthy for future generations.”

The event has been organised by the United Nations Association of Australia WA Division and is sponsored by the UWA Oceans Institute, the Harry Butler Institute at Murdoch University and WAMSI.

“WA has a strong focus on its marine environment and there are so many opportunities for people to play and work on the ocean. We will discuss opportunities as we move away from carbon-based energy to more renewable forms,” Dr Twomey said.

Tickets are available here.