Tessa HEMPSON

Biography

Dr Tessa Hempson is Chief Scientist at Mission Blue, where she leads global science strategy to advance Dr Sylvia Earle’s vision of protecting the ocean through the Hope Spot network. A marine ecologist, conservationist, and explorer with over two decades of experience, her work centres on coral reef resilience, biodiversity conservation, and harnessing collaboration to drive ocean protection – from local action in the Western Indian Ocean to global impact.

She founded Oceans Without Borders, bringing together science, community engagement, and tourism to achieve conservation at scale, and is a trustee of Fundação Quirimbas in Mozambique. A Fellow of The Explorers Club and advisor to Monaco Explorations, Dr Hempson is recognised internationally for combining rigorous science, strong partnerships, and powerful storytelling to inspire action for the ocean – the planet’s life support system.

Speaking at

COP30 Ocean Action Agenda - Moving from Ambition to Action - The One Ocean Partnership

Oct 09 2025 (14:00 - 15:00)

Room: IUCN Programme 2026-2029 Pavilion - R2
COP30 Ocean Action Agenda - Moving from Ambition to Action - The One Ocean Partnership