[Partner Breakout] Building Resilience with Community-Led Ocean Science and Conservation

Hosted by Schmidt Ocean Institute, 11th Hour Racing, and Schmidt Marine Technology Partners

Ocean science, technology, and conservation are coming together to be practiced at a community level that broadens inclusion and participation. Highlighting recipients of Schmidt philanthropy, this panel will share three U.S. based examples of science, business, and technology practitioners conducting Ocean work that incorporates local knowledge and community advocacy. Discussion around deep-sea research and protection in the Phoenix Islands Protected Area (Kiribati/Boston); the Vieques Conservation and Historical Trust (Puerto Rico); and Marauder Robotics (Atlanta/California) will provide examples of how ocean conservation can be strengthened by local partnerships, particularly in regions that have traditionally held a smaller platform to share valuable knowledge and expertise.

Speakers:

  • Melvin Alvarez, Grant Program Associate, 11th Hour Racing (moderator)
  • Dr. Randi Rotjan, Research Assistant Professor of Biology, Boston University and Co-Chief Scientist, Phoenix Islands Protected Area (PIPA) Conservation Trust
  • Dr. Dennis Yancy, Co-Founder and CEO, Marauder Robotics
  • Mark Martin, Director of Community Affairs and Field Research, The Vieques Conservation and Historical Trust