Water Warriors: Combatting the Climate Crisis to Save Our Seas and Rivers
Join icons David Suzuki, Severn Suzuki and moderator James Chau as they discuss innovative strategies to combat the climate crisis and protect our seas and rivers. This session will highlight the critical actions needed to preserve aquatic ecosystems and promote environmental sustainability.
Speakers
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Sue WhiskyCEO and Founder of Environmental Network MalawiSue Whisky
CEO and Founder of Environmental Network Malawi
Sue is a passionate environmentalist from Malawi, whose journey began at 14 when she witnessed the devastating impacts of climate change in her village. As a pioneer in agro technology and environmental conservation, she has spearheaded innovative projects like solar-powered irrigation systems that significantly improve water efficiency for rural farmers, reducing their reliance on rain-fed agriculture. Her work in transforming agricultural waste into eco-friendly briquettes also promotes sustainability and economic empowerment. In 2019, Sue’s activism earned her the title of One Young World Ambassador. She founded the Environmental Network Malawi, leading efforts in environmental development, conservation, and education. Collaborating with local and national authorities, she has electrified rural areas with solar power, planted over 5 million trees, and significantly increased food harvests. Her water projects have improved access to clean water for numerous communities, ensuring sustainable water management practices. Sue’s work has provided jobs for thousands of women, sent children to school, and generated economic opportunities for farmers. Her vision is a brighter, greener future for Malawi and the world.
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Dr David SuzukiGrandfather and Co-Founder, David Suzuki FoundationDr David Suzuki
Counsellor
Grandfather and Co-Founder, David Suzuki Foundation
David Suzuki FoundationDavid Suzuki has made it his life's work to help humanity understand, appreciate, respect and protect nature. He is familiar to television audiences from his 44 years as host of the CBC science and natural history television series The Nature of Things. In 2020 David received The Canadian Academy of Cinema and Television's Lifetime Achievement Award. He has been recognised by BC Achievement in partnership with the Lieutenant Governor of BC for his extraordinary work as a recipient of the 2021 BC Reconciliation Award. Dr Suzuki is a Companion to the Order of Canada and a recipient of UNESCO's Kalinga Prize for science, the 2009 Right Livelihood Award, and UNEP’s Global 500. He is Professor Emeritus at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver and holds 33 honorary degrees from universities in Canada, United States and Australia. His written work includes more than 56 books, 20 of them for children. Dr. Suzuki lives with his wife and family in Vancouver, B.C.
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James ChauPresident, China-United States Exchange Foundation and Goodwill Ambassador, WHOJames Chau
Counsellor
President, China-United States Exchange Foundation and Goodwill Ambassador, WHO
China-United States Exchange FoundationA long-time television news anchor, special reputation for his interviews with world leaders including Nobel Peace Prize laureates President Jimmy Carter, UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan, and Professor Muhammad Yunus, as well as Christine Lagarde, Jane Goodall, and Madam Peng Liyuan among others. At the United Nations, Mr. Chau is the World Health Organization Goodwill Ambassador for Sustainable Development Goals, appointed by WHO Director-General Dr. Margaret Chan, and re-appointed by Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. Previously, he served as UNAIDS Goodwill Ambassador, the first person in China named to this role. Born in London, Mr. Chau studied piano at the Royal Academy of Music and graduated from Cambridge University and King’s College London. He completed an Executive Education course on Global Leadership and Public Policy for the 21st Century at the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. He is a World Economic Forum Young Global Leader and a One Young World Counsellor.