Dr. Enric Sala is a former university professor who saw himself writing the obituary of ocean life, and quit academia in 2008 to become a full-time conservationist as National Geographic Explorer in Residence. He founded and leads Pristine Seas, a global initiative that combines exploration, research, media, economics and policy – working with local communities, Indigenous Peoples and governments to protect vital places in the ocean. To date, Pristine Seas has helped to create 27 of the largest marine reserves on the planet, covering an area of over 6.5 million square km (the size of the Amazon region).
Enric has published over 250 research papers, 3 books, produced 30 documentary films, and received numerous awards, including 2008 World Economic Forum’s Young Global Leader, 2013 Explorers Club Lowell Thomas Award, 2018 Heinz Award in Public Policy, 2021 Emmy Award for Nature Documentary, National Geographic Hubbard Medal, and Albert I Grand Medal. He is an Officer of the Order of San Carlos of Colombia and a fellow of the Royal Geographical Society.