The United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for the Ocean will offer a personal perspective on the health of the world’s oceans, reflecting on environmental, social and economic pressures at a public lecture next month.

The University of Western Australia’s Oceans Institute will host the free lecture by UN envoy, Peter Thomson, who will outline the actions required to halt and reverse decline to secure a sustainable and resilient ocean future.

Mr Thomson leads the UN’s global oceans advocacy and public outreach efforts and works with governments, industry, the scientific community and civil society to advance the implementation of Sustainable Development Goal 14 — to conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources.

His visit is an opportunity to explore the international trajectory of ocean governance, the role of policy and research in sustainable ocean management, and how regional initiatives can contribute to achieving shared global objectives.

Professor Christophe Gaudin, Director of the UWA Oceans Institute, said the event highlighted the critical role universities play in bridging science, policy and public engagement.

“UWA has a long-standing commitment to ocean science and sustainability,” Professor Gaudin said.

“Hosting Mr Thomson provides an opportunity for our community to engage directly with global ocean leadership and to understand how world-class research can inform international policy and real-world solutions.”

Following the address, Mr Thomson will take part in a panel discussion with Professor Gaudin and special guests, before opening the conversation to audience questions.

The event is expected to explore how global frameworks translate into regional and local action, including the role of research institutions in shaping solutions.

The lecture is on Tuesday 10 February from 6pm to 7.30pm at The University Club of Western Australia auditorium. To reserve tickets click here.