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sheephead on a California platform teeming with fish and invertebrates

Rigs as Reefs: Reimagining our Energy Past as our Eco-Friendly Future

Aquarium of the Pacific First Wednesdays Event Lecture, Cocktails and Coloring

Rigs as Reefs: Reimagining our Energy Past as our Eco-Friendly Future

Aquarium of the Pacific First Wednesdays Event Lecture, Cocktails and Coloring

sheephead on a California platform teeming with fish and invertebrates

Credit: Joe Platko

Talk with Q&A in Honda Pacific Visions Theater, presented by Amber Sparks, Co-President of Blue Latitudes

By 2055, 23 of California’s 27 offshore oil and gas platforms are scheduled for decommissioning. Historically, decommissioning in California has meant complete removal—severing platforms from their foundations and bringing them onshore for recycling and disposal. Although in some cases complete removal is the best decommissioning option, it can also be costly and technically challenging, with significant impacts to marine life and local fisheries.

This presentation will shed light on how scientists, operators and regulators are beginning to think creatively about the net benefits of repurposing platforms from “Rigs to Reefs” (RtR). It will address how implementing a RtR program in California may not only provide a viable alternative to traditional decommissioning but also a replicable, scalable and significantly more commercially viable solution for sustainable ocean resource development.

The presentation will be followed by Paint-a-Fish in our Art Gallery and Cocktail/Social Hour with music, coloring, and a cash bar in our Great Hall.

Covid Safety Protocol:

For the safety of our guests and staff, the Aquarium is requiring proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test in order to attend this program (either 2 days before event for a PCR test or one day for a rapid antigen test). You must provide this with your ticket confirmation and photo ID, at the Aquarium entrance. There will be no exceptions. All visitors regardless of vaccination status are required to wear a face mask.

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DATE
No results found for this timeframe.
COST
The lecture is FREE. Reservations required to reserve your seat in the theater. Beverages available for purchase during the cocktail hour. Parking with Aquarium validation is $8.00
Amber Sparks headshot

Credit: Scott Sporleder

Amber Sparks, Co-President, Blue Latitudes FoundationAmber is a marine conservation biologist and eco-entrepreneur. She has a B.A. in Marine Science from UC Berkeley and a M.A.S in Marine Biodiversity and Conservation from Scripps Institution of Oceanography. As a leader and explorer, Amber is committed to elevating the scientific understanding of our oceans in communities worldwide and she volunteers her time as a science educator at schools across the country. In 2018, Amber was recognized on Forbes 30 Under 30 list in the energy sector for her work developing sustainable, creative, and cost-effective solutions for the environmental issues that surround the offshore energy industry. Mrs. Sparks is also a PADI certified rescue diver and Ambassadiver.

The Aquarium of the Pacific’s First Wednesdays events bring scientists, authors, and other experts into its theater for an illustrated talk paired with book signings or meet and greets and cocktail/social hours. The programs are best suited for high school and college students and adults of all ages.

EVENT DETAILS

Date
No results found for this timeframe.
Cost
The lecture is FREE. Reservations required to reserve your seat in the theater. Beverages available for purchase during the cocktail hour. Parking with Aquarium validation is $8.00
R.S.V.P.
562-590-3100, Ext. 0
Ages
Recommended for 12+

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