In line with the UAE’s hosting of the annual global climate conference COP28, The Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center, the largest dedicated marine research, rescue, rehabilitation and return Center in the region, hosted its third educational Science Talk on November 23, in a special edition that addressed current global challenges under climate change. This comes as part of the Center’s unwavering dedication towards education and marine life conservation.

The session saw internationally renowned Atmospheric Scientist Dr. Diana Francis, Head of Environmental and Geographical Sciences (ENGEOS) Lab at Khalifa University, welcoming attendees and highlighting the impact of climate change with a special focus on the Arabian Gulf.

Followed by an insightful presentation from Monir Salem, Advisor with the Environment Policy and Regulations team at the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi on how communities of the Arabian region can prepare to address the climate change impacts.

Towards the end of the evening, Shaemma Mebwana, Climate Change Analyst at MOCCAE joined the stage alongside Dr. Diana and Mr. Monir in a panel discussion session headed by Dr. Elise Marquis, Director of the Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center. The panel discussed the community’s efforts to tackle climate change in the UAE and the wider region. The insightful session was then followed by an open Q&A session to conclude the evening.

This Science Talk marks the third of a four-series that is taking place at the Center this year. The first two Science Talks shed light on corals and sharks, bringing experts on both subjects to share their knowledge to the audience. The last and final Science Talk of the series will take place in December and will be centered around cuttlefish.

Guests can attend the sessions for free after registering online. Interested participants can reserve their spot by filling out a form on the Center’s website and presenting a confirmation email upon arrival.

The Center hosts three tours per week, on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 4:30pm to 5:30pm guided by members of the education team where guests can enjoy in-depth orientations of the Center’s facilities and public offerings.