Reef Futures

Marine ecologist Professor Scott Ling has spent decades diving on Tasmania's reefs to understand why productive ecosystems collapse and what it takes for them to recover. Restoring the giant kelp forests in Tasmania has become a key focus of his work in scaling-up solutions to repair reef ecosystems. In this Island of Ideas keynote, Scott will take us inside one of Tasmania's most ambitious marine restoration efforts. From reducing sea urchin numbers and rebuilding rock lobster populations, to ‘seaweeding’ competing algae and out-planting giant kelp, he will explore how scientists, industry, and communities are working together to help the giant kelp. Can we safeguard remnant giant kelp forests and bring them back where they’ve been lost in recent decades? And what might their capacity for recovery teach us about resilience in a rapidly changing ocean? Ideas worth sharing about issues that matter Island of Ideas invites all Tasmanians to join our series of free public talks designed to ignite conversation and curiosity across our community. Guided by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, the program brings together researchers, policymakers, industry leaders and community voices to discuss the issues that matter. Stay connected by subscribing to our mailing list for updates or visit Island of Ideas to watch past talks and register for upcoming events. Photo Credit: Jarrod Boord