Dr. Enric Sala

Dr. Enric Sala is a National Geographic explorer-in-residence who is dedicated to restoring the health and productivity of the ocean. His more than 120 scientific publications are widely recognized and used for real-world conservation efforts such as the creation of marine reserves. Enric is currently working to help protect the last pristine marine ecosystems in the world, and to develop new business models for marine conservation. He founded and leads National Geographic’s Pristine Seas, a project that combines exploration, research and media to inspire country leaders to protect the last wild places in the ocean. To date, Pristine Seas has helped to create 13 marine reserves—some of which are the largest on the planet—covering an area of more than 4.5 million square kilometers. Enric has received many awards, including Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum in 2008, the Research Award from the Spanish Geographical Society in 2013, the Lowell Thomas Award from the Explorers Club in 2013 and the Hero Award from the Environmental Media Association in 2013. He is a fellow of the Royal Geographical Society. Enric’s experience and scientific expertise contribute to his service on advisory boards of international organizations and governments. Enric holds a doctorate in ecology from the University of Aix-Marseille, France.