Enric Sala Keynote Speaker

Enric Sala is a world-renowned ocean conservationist, widely recognised for his ground-breaking work in protecting our planet’s marine ecosystems.

As National Geographic’s Explorer-in-Residence, Sala founded and leads Pristine Seas, a multidisciplinary project focused on exploration, research, and media initiatives dedicated to safeguarding the remaining pristine places in the ocean.

Sala’s efforts alongside an exceptional team of scientists, conservationists, filmmakers, and policy experts have resulted in the establishment of 26 new marine protected areas, covering an impressive expanse of over 6.5 million square kilometres of ocean. This remarkable accomplishment stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment to preserving and restoring the world’s oceans.

Formerly a professor at Scripps Institution of Oceanography, Sala left academia to take on a more active role in ocean conservation. The profound impact of his work and research has been recognised through numerous prestigious awards and honours. In 2008, Enric Sala was named a World Economic Forum Young Global Leader, and he has received the Explorers Club Lowell Thomas Award (2013), the Environmental Media Association Hero Award (2013), the Russian Geographical Society Award (2016), the Heinz Award in Public Policy (2018), the Prince Albert I Grand Medal (2021), the National Geographic Society’s Hubbard Medal (2021), and the Nat 2022 Prize.

Sala speaks about a diverse range of topics, including climate change, environmental stewardship, sustainable business practices, and responsible resource management. As a purposeful and compelling speaker, his genuine enthusiasm for marine life captivates his audiences and leaves a lasting impact on their understanding and dedication to conservation.

In addition to his conservation work, Enric Sala is the author of ‘The Nature of Nature: Why We Need the Wild’ and has published numerous research papers, solidifying his standing as a respected authority in this field. His expertise has earned him invitations to speak at esteemed events and organisations, including TED, National Geographic, and the United Nations. Sala serves on advisory boards for international organisations and governments and actively shape conservation strategies at a global level.

Enric Sala is a fellow of the Royal Geographical Society and holds a B.S. in Biology from the University of Barcelona and a Ph.D. in Ecology from Aix-Marseille University in France.