Marine biologist Alan Deidun is to be appointed Malta's ocean ambassador for the United Nations' 2021-2030 decade of ocean science for sustainable development.
Prof. Deidun was recommended for the role by Environment Minister José Herrera and will be appointed by Foreign Minister Carmelo Abela, who is currently accompanying the Prime Minister in Australia on an official visit.
In his role as ambassador, Prof. Deidun will be responsible for spearheading local initiatives related to ocean science and UN objectives for sustainable development.
He will also be helping Malta in its bid for a seat at the UN Security Council in 2022.
Prof. Deidun is also a columnist with The Sunday Times of Malta.
The UN decade of ocean science has set member states five key objectives:
a. To stimulate a global partnership on the marine science requirements needed to support implementation of Agenda 2030
b. To understand the impacts of cumulative stressors on the world's oceans and find sustainable solutions to them
c. To share knowledge and enhance marine research capabilities through the transfer of marine technology, especially to help small island developing states and least developed countries
d. To gain a better knowledge of ocean dynamics and ecosystems
e. To map the ocean floor and its resources to support their sustainable management