Speaker will be Michael Blackstock.

Blue Ecology and the Give Back Ethos.

Michael Blackstock, an independent Indigenous scholar and retired professional forester, will present his theory called “Blue Ecology” which emerged from his research on a deceptively simple question: what is water? He will follow the thread of enquiry starting with redefining water and a forest ecosystem to the ripple effects on biocultural diversity and understanding climate change using a water lens. Finally, he will offer substantive actions for individuals and organizations to ensure future generations can survive with dignity.

Michael is a Founder, and Director of the Blue Ecology Institute Foundation and of Gitxsan/European heritage; he is a carver, visual artist, poet, forester, and mediator and has a Masters of Art degree in First Nations Studies and he has served as a member of the UNESCO-IHP Expert Advisory Group on Water and Cultural Diversity.