Science-based Mgt of our Oceans

Event: Science-based Management of our Oceans

How can marine science help us contribute to the sustainable management of our livelihoods, jobs and our energy-based sectors?  We can start from the premise that to understand and achieve sustainable development, an obligation to conserve our marine and coastal environments must also be appreciated and understood.  Public interest in marine litter, marine conservation and the blue economy continue to grow locally, while it has gained momentum across the globe. In commemoration of its 40^th anniversary, the Institute of Marine Affairs (IMA) is excited to announce its 2018 Public Lecture Series, themed ‘Science and Innovation for Marine Conservation’.  Starting from the Month of May, the IMA will be hosting a series of lectures to be delivered by experts and leaders – all of whom are visionaries in their respective fields.   The lecture series will create a discussion platform not only to hear our keynote speakers inform on issues pertinent to the marine environment, but also to deliberate, discuss and engage on current issues and trends that correspond to the sustainable use of our marine resources. On the 15^th May, 2018, the Vice President of Shell Trinidad and Tobago Limited, Mr. Derek Hudson, will deliver the maiden lecture titled, “Science-based Management of our Oceans, its Economic Value (Blue Economy), Emerging Issues and Challenges for Innovative Management Solutions” at the Old Fire Station Building in Port of Spain commencing promptly at 5:00 p.m.   Mr. Hudson will guide us on the significance of our marine ecosystem services, from which employment creation, revenue generation and particularly the energy-based industries are derived.  He would also highlight the need for us to start thinking and eventually transitioning to a blue economy, should we aspire for sustainable development. These lectures are part of a broader stream of ongoing conversations and discussions.  We started the conversation on 28^th March 2018 at our 4^th Research Community Symposium at the Chaguanas Borough Corporation and will continue with these lectures as we strive to bridge the gap between science and society and science and our community. Be on the lookout for more lectures in the months of June and July 2018.  For more information on the lecture series, including more detailed information on individual lectures, please visit www.ima.gov.tt.