A Jamaican conservationist will take centre stage at the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute this weekend as part of an ongoing conversation series about marine protection.

Theresa Rodriguez-Moodie, the CEO of the Jamaica Environment Trust, is set to speak about the charity’s work in the Caribbean nation, which focuses on environmental education, conservation, law and advocacy.

A spokeswoman for the BUEI said the presentation will be the third in the Island SOS series.

She said: “JET’s main projects include Jamaica’s longest running environmental education programme for students and teachers and the School’s Environment Programme, which has been in continuous operation since 1997.

“Their Law and Advocacy Programme works to protect Jamaica’s natural resources using the law, public participation processes, policy review and the media.

“JET stages and coordinates many environmental events in Jamaica, including the annual International Coastal Cleanup Day.

“JET’s conservation work has included monitoring of sea turtle nesting and the patrol management of the Pedro Bank fish sanctuary.”

The spokeswoman added that both Jamaica and Bermuda generate a large portion of revenue from tourism, but the tourism industry directly impacts the environment in both nations.

Karla Lacey, BUEI CEO, said that Bermuda introduced its first marine conservation legislation in 1620 with the goal of protecting the island’s turtles.

Ms Lacey added: “While Bermuda’s waters provide many opportunities for hands on environmental protection and natural science research, careers in ocean conservation can also be achieved through law and advocacy by providing appropriate safeguarding measures for a thriving ecosystem.

“Ocean conservation is always at the forefront of what we do here at BUEI, it is our hope that these talks resonate with individuals in our community and inspire new ways to protect and appreciate our seas.”

Dr Rodriguez-Moodie’s presentation will take place at BUEI’s Tradewinds Auditorium on Sunday at 4pm with a live question and answer section.

Future events in the Island SOS series will focus on other nations including Barbados, Bahamas, Tobago and the Isle of Man.

Tickets to each presentation are $15 for BUEI members and $20 for non-members.

To reserve a space, e-mail info@buei.bm or call BUEI’s Ocean Gift Shop at 294-0204.