Voices from the Mirpuri Foundation Forum Highlight Urgency and Opportunity in Marine Conservation
The Mirpuri Foundation Conservation Forum convened global experts, policymakers, and changemakers to share innovative approaches to conservation, sustainable practices, and community engagement. The day featured three pivotal sessions, a storytelling highlight, and an inspiring closing address.
Bridging Science and Policy for Conservation
"Biodiversity loss is not just an ecological issue; it's a human rights crisis." – Grethel Aguilar
Speakers:
Carlos Duarte – Executive Director, Global Coral R&D Accelerator Platform (CORDAP)
Grethel Aguilar – Deputy Director General, IUCN
Commander Telmo Dias – Portuguese Navy, Hydrographic Institute
Gonçalo Santos – Coordinator of Sustainability and the Blue Economy, Fórum Oceano
This session highlighted the critical intersection of scientific research and policy development for marine conservation. Panelists emphasized the urgency of preserving marine biodiversity through actionable science, data-driven marine planning, and Portugal’s innovative leadership in the blue economy.
"We must ensure that our science is actionable, reaching policymakers who can transform findings into concrete steps." – Carlos Duarte
"Portugal's hydrographic data serves as a cornerstone for marine protection and sustainable blue economy initiatives." – Commander Telmo Dias
"Every ocean action has the power to secure humanity’s future." – Gonçalo Santos
Storytelling Segment: Orcas, Science, and Ourselves
"We protect what we love, and we love what we understand." – Ricardo Nascimento
Ricardo Nascimento – Underwater Cinematographer, Explorer, and Filmmaker
Ricardo Nascimento shared the compelling story of orcas in the Strait of Gibraltar, their fascinating behaviors, and their interactions with Moroccan fishing boats. His documentary aims to bridge the gap between public empathy and scientific understanding, highlighting how storytelling can inspire conservation.
"Orcas are matriarchal societies—living legacies with stories that mirror our own humanity." – Ricardo Nascimento
"Every image, every video, is an opportunity to ignite empathy and inspire action." – Ricardo Nascimento
"We must listen to the ocean, and orcas are among its most captivating storytellers." – Ricardo Nascimento
Climate-Forward Partnerships and Conservation Initiatives
"The demand for sustainable aviation fuels is so high that even 5% of supply would be transformative." – Ralph Slikkerveer
Speakers:
Ralph Slikkerveer – Global R&D Director, AkzoNobel
Gonçalo Costa – National Geographic Explorer and Co-Founder, Cricket Farming Company
João Canning-Clode – Principal Scientist, Smithsonian Marine Station at Madeira
Anna Isserman – Development Board Member, Pangea Trust
Panelists explored pioneering solutions for conservation and climate action, from cricket farming as a sustainable protein source to advancements in rewilding degraded lands. They also discussed how public-private partnerships can catalyze global efforts to combat climate change.
"Crickets are more than food; they are agents of circular economy and environmental remediation." – Gonçalo Costa
"Creativity and collaboration often outweigh big budgets when it comes to conservation impact." – João Canning-Clode
"Sustainability in aviation fuels isn't just an option; it’s a necessity for the industry’s survival." – Anna Isserman
Public and Private Sector Roles in Conservation
"We must view sustainability not as a cost, but as an opportunity for innovation and long-term gains." – Joana Branquinho
Speakers:
Meredith McCurdy – Program Leader, Sports for Nature, IUCN
Captain Pedro Videira – Head of Nature and Environment Protection Section, National Republican Guard (GNR)
Nuno Costa – PR and Marketing Manager, Porsche Ibérica
Joana Branquinho – Founder and CEO, Audia Advisor
This session explored the complementary roles of public and private sectors in conservation. Discussions ranged from Porsche’s e-fuel innovations to law enforcement strategies for curbing illegal Wildlife trade and integrating sustainability into real estate practices.
"Sport is a powerful platform to inspire action for nature conservation." – Meredith McCurdy
"Portugal’s coastline is both an asset and a responsibility in combating illegal Wildlife trade." – Captain Pedro Videira
"The future of real estate lies in balancing ecological sustainability with economic opportunity." – Joana Branquinho
Closing Remarks by Luísa Mirpuri
"Without the ocean, life on Earth is impossible. Every second breath we take comes from the ocean." – Luísa Mirpuri
Luísa Mirpuri delivered an impassioned closing address, urging collective action to protect the ocean. She emphasized the health risks posed by microplastics and heavy metals and advocated for reducing individual plastic consumption and adopting ocean-friendly practices.
"Each of us holds immense power to create change, starting with small but meaningful actions." – Luísa Mirpuri
"The health of the ocean reflects the health of humanity." – Luísa Mirpuri
"The ocean is not just a resource; it’s our lifeline and legacy." – Luísa Mirpuri
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