The oceans represent hope for the world and its inhabitants. Seventy percent of Earth’s surface is covered by oceans, which regulate climate, modulate human-induced global change, provide food and energy resources, and enable maritime transport. Society relies on the oceans as a source of rain, for its fisheries, as a climate buffer, and for international trade, tourism, and transportation. Investing in protecting and preserving the oceans is essential to understanding the planet. Wise management and sound policy are crucial for the future of the planet and its value to society.

As Director of Scripps Institution of Oceanography, at the University of California, San Diego, I have the honour and the responsibility for leading one of the oldest, largest, and most important centers for global ocean and earth science research and graduate training in the world. Now in its second century of exploration and discovery, Scripps has grown in its scientific scope to include all major studies of the earth as a complex and integrated system. Today, Scripps scientists are conducting ocean and earth science research to address global problems. Although the Scripps campus is in California, our research reaches far and wide, spanning the entire planet.

At stake today is a wide range of economic, technological, policy, and environmental impacts related to the oceans. BioMarine offers unprecedented opportunities for partnerships that will enhance the value of the oceans for the benefit of all society. And Scripps Institution of Oceanography is poised to provide the critical science that is crucial for implementing long- term solutions to the challenges facing our world today.

Message about BioMarine Business Convention 2011 from Pr. Tony Haymet Director

of Scripps Institution of Oceanography University of California, San Diego

Chairman Scientific advisory board - Co-Chair, BioMarine