The 2024 Pew fellowship in marine conservation has been awarded to scientists from six countries: the Philippines, Denmark, the United Kingdom, Canada, and the United States.
Each of these six scientists either holds a doctorate or is currently pursuing one. Rene Abesamis, Ph.D., from the University of the Philippines, Dilman, is among the recipients. According to a news release issued on February 28 announcing the new fellows, Abesamis will focus on identifying climate-resilient coral reefs in the Philippines and prepare for their protection.
Dyhia Belhabib, Ph.D., from Ecotrust Canada is another recipient. Belhabib's project involves studying and tracing Senegal’s seafood supply chain to determine how illegally caught fish enter the market, how seafood is laundered, and where it ultimately ends up. The objective of this study is to pinpoint where illegal commercial fishing occurs most frequently and collaborate with authorities for monitoring.
Marine Cusa, Ph.D., from Oceana in Denmark will employ genetic tools to enhance transparency and sustainability in the European aquaculture sector. Cusa aims to identify main suppliers of fish meal for European aquaculture companies and scrutinize the composition of fish feeds as well as their sourcing and sustainability. This project will also involve scientists, journalists, and representatives from conservation organizations.
James Kar-Hei Fang, Ph.D., from Hong Kong Polytechnic University plans to use oysters bred in captivity to restore pearl oyster reefs in Hong Kong’s Tolo Channel. Fang intends to use 3D technology for monitoring biodiversity and restored oysters.
Christina Hicks, Ph.D., hailing from Lancaster University in the United Kingdom will investigate international finance's role in overfishing in East and West Africa. According to Pew's news release, Hicks will also explore barriers and opportunities for developing policies that increase financial transparency.
Lastly, Emi Uchida, Ph.D., from the University of Rhode Island will utilize remote sensing data and machine learning tools to understand why mangrove and seagrass ecosystems are disappearing in the Coral Triangle. Uchida plans to collaborate with 90 communities in Indonesia.
"The world's oceans have never been under greater threat. Humankind relies on healthy oceans in countless ways. These talented scientists are working to conserve and protect marine species and habitats across the globe—from Africa's coasts to the coral reefs of the western Pacific Ocean," said Susan K. Urahn, president and CEO of Pew.
The Pew Charitable Trusts are funded by seven individual funds established between 1948 and 1979 by Joseph Newton Pew's children and Mary Anderson Pew. Joseph is known as the founder of the Sun Oil Company, according to the organization’s website.