Expert Detail - Lindblad Expeditions

Lindblad Expeditions / National Geographic

Meet Our Heroes for the Planet

VIEW ALL

BACK TO MAIN

Dr. Enric Sala - Marine Ecologist, National Geographic Emerging Explorer

My Issue: Marine Conservation

Merging rigorous science, adventure, and passion for the sea, Dr. Enric Sala doesn't mind making waves. His comprehensive approach to research is a bold departure from traditional marine science methodology that focuses on individual species. "Underwater ecosystems are like airplanes," he says. "They need all of their parts to function. Who wants to travel on a plane knowing five or ten parts are missing? That's why I organize expeditions with teams who can study the entire system from microbes to sharks. It's the only way to understand the full impact humans have on these places."The youngest professor at the prestigious Scripps Institution of Oceanography and a researcher at Spain's National Council for Scientific Research, Sala is determined to see his research translate into practical, real-world applications. "I don't belong to an ivory tower. My findings must reach the eyes and ears of policy makers and the public. In these times of increasing environmental degradation, I think scientists have a responsibility to use our knowledge to directly improve conservation."


Enric Sala: Beneath the Sea of Cortez 3:34

PERSONAL QUOTE

"Today, less than 1% of the ocean and only 0.01 % of coral reefs are truly protected. If we actually protect portions of the oceans in marine reserves, we know that species will come back."

"A living fish is more valuable than a dead fish."

- Dr. Enric Sala