The last several decades have witnessed a concerted effort for citizens and governments to be more “green.” Nations are seeking to grow economies that create green jobs, invest in innovations that produce green technology, and build infrastructure that generates green energy. While KAUST Ibn Sina Distinguished Professor Carlos Duarte applauds these efforts, he worries such focus on greening ignores the “blue” that covers more than two-thirds of the Earth’s surface.

In 2009, Duarte coined the term “blue carbon” to highlight the importance of the world’s oceans in combating climate change. After decades of scientific research that established him as a global leader in ocean science, he is now such a trusted voice in the field that he is a leading advisor on ocean policies globally, especially of the Red Sea. His accomplished career has made him the recipient of several international awards, the most recent being the Japan Prize, the nation’s top prize for excellence in science and technology and one of the world's most prestigious.  

CLICK HERE TO READ THE FULL STORY. ​​