Join us for an elightened evening with Enric Sala, a former university professor turned conservationist, renowned for his pioneering work with National Geographic's Pristine Seas initiative. His journey from academia to advocacy was sparked by a profound concern for the deteriorating state of ocean life, prompting him to dedicate himself fully to marine conservation.
Enric's documentary, Super Reefs sheds light on the power of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) to safeguard biodiversity and encourage coral reef recovery after the impacts of devastating and frequent warming events. Directed and produced by National Geographic Pristine Seas, “Super Reefs” follows a group of marine scientists on a 2021 return trip to the southern Line Islands of Kiribati in the central Pacific — checking in on progress after a catastrophic coral bleaching event from six years earlier that devastated 50% of the reef population. Featuring gorgeous underwater scenes and new insights on the state of our ocean, Super Reefs offers a message of hope even as global warming continues to devastate our climate.
Pristine Seas, under Sala's leadership, combines exploration, scientific research, and compelling storytelling to catalyze the establishment of marine protected areas (MPAs) worldwide. These efforts have been instrumental in creating 27 of the largest MPAs on Earth, covering an impressive 6.6 million square kilometers—an area twice the size of India. These protected areas, often likened to "national parks of the sea," not only safeguard marine biodiversity but also enhance fisheries, bolster local economies, and contribute to climate resilience.
Beyond his impactful conservation work, Enric Sala is an accomplished author, having penned "The Nature of Nature," which delves into ecological interconnectedness and the urgency of conservation. His efforts have garnered global recognition, including prestigious accolades like the World Economic Forum's Young Global Leader and the National Geographic Society's Hubbard Medal.
Enric Sala remains a steadfast advocate for marine conservation, advocating for the ambitious goal of protecting at least 30% of the world's oceans by 2030—a crucial target for safeguarding marine ecosystems and securing their benefits for future generations. His work underscores the critical role that healthy oceans play in sustaining life on Earth, reinforcing the idea that when underwater life thrives, the ocean reciprocates manifold benefits to humanity and the planet as a whole.