TECH TALKS: Smart Ocean Planning for a Sustainable Future with Dr. Sandra Whitehouse

On Friday, June 9, 2017, Dr. Sandra Whitehouse will join SENEDIA and the Undersea Technology Innovation Center (UTIC) to discuss observations and share her perspectives on the important topic of Smart Ocean Planning for a Sustainable Future.  Cities, states and countries around the world are turning to the ocean for more food and energy. Yet, the development of the “blue economy” must be done sustainably and be respectful of existing ocean stakeholders and our ecological resources. An increasingly popular approach is for all participants in the ocean and maritime community to collaborate and coordinate efforts to ensure the type of development and exploitation of our resources are done in a way that promotes healthy economic development, but as importantly, protects our natural resources and ensures a thriving ocean ecosystem, both now and in the future. 
 
Rhode Island has many companies, universities and institutions that comprise our ocean cluster. As part of our approach to ocean sustainability in Rhode Island and New England, organizations should actively engage in our smart ocean plans for state and regional waters. Rhode Island is poised to seize the opportunities presented by the expanding blue economy, by working together and looking at the total impact of business and decisions on our vital blue ecosystem.
 
Dr. Sandra Whitehouse is a long time environmental advocate and consultant who has served for over twenty years as an ocean policy advisor to multiple organizations and institutions, using her marine science expertise to advise clients on a variety of issues including how to advance ocean health and sustainably develop coastal and offshore projects.