Leatherback Sea Turtles Ministry of Tourism. Ocean Stewardship Award.

Leatherback Sea Turtle. Photo: Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts, Trinidad and Tobago.

Ocean Stewardship Award 2026: Why Kathryn Audroing’s recognition matters globally

The Ocean Stewardship Award 2026 recognises Kathryn Audroing for advancing marine conservation through science, community leadership and global policy engagement. This award marks a significant shift towards empowering early-career ocean advocates who can translate international agreements into real-world outcomes.

It reflects growing urgency around threats such as climate change, overfishing and deep-sea exploitation. This article explains the origins and purpose of the award, the legacy of its founder, and the role of Synchronicity Earth in shaping future ocean leadership. It examines how Kathryn Audroing bridges science, policy and grassroots action, particularly in Trinidad and Tobago.

It also outlines why her work on marine turtles and equitable ocean governance has global implications. Finally, it provides practical guidance on how individuals can support conservation efforts and responsibly experience turtle nesting season in Trinidad and Tobago.

Key Takeaways

Early-career leaders are critical to implementing global ocean treaties.
Community-led conservation strengthens long-term ecological outcomes.
Marine turtles connect local ecosystems to global ocean systems.
Trinidad and Tobago plays a strategic role in Atlantic biodiversity protection.
Individual action can meaningfully support conservation outcomes.

The origin and purpose of the Ocean Stewardship Award

The Ocean Stewardship Award represents a deliberate investment in the next generation of marine conservation leaders. Established in honour of Kristina Gjerde, the award reflects decades of progress in international ocean governance while acknowledging that policy alone is insufficient without capable individuals to implement it.

Hosted by Synchronicity Earth, the initiative identifies early-career scientists, advocates and policy contributors who demonstrate both technical competence and collaborative leadership. The award provides financial support, mentorship and access to an international network. This structure aligns with established conservation frameworks that emphasise capacity building, interdisciplinary collaboration and long-term stewardship.

The timing of the award is significant. It coincides with the implementation phase of the High Seas Treaty, formally known as the Agreement on Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction. This treaty governs nearly two thirds of the global ocean, areas that historically lacked enforceable protection. The award therefore functions as a mechanism to ensure that commitments made at the international level translate into measurable conservation outcomes.

By focusing on individuals under 35 or in early stages of their careers, the award acknowledges a demographic reality. Many of the most innovative conservation approaches now emerge from younger practitioners who operate across disciplines, combining ecological science, data analysis, legal frameworks and community engagement.

The legacy of Kristina Gjerde

Any understanding of the Ocean Stewardship Award must begin with the legacy of Kristina Gjerde. Over a career spanning more than three decades, she played a central role in shaping modern ocean governance.

Her work contributed directly to the development of the High Seas Treaty, one of the most significant environmental agreements of the 21st century. She advocated for marine protected areas beyond national jurisdiction and pushed for restrictions on destructive practices such as bottom trawling and deep-sea mining. Her approach combined legal expertise with scientific collaboration, ensuring that policy recommendations were grounded in empirical evidence.

Gjerde also recognised the limitations of top-down governance. She consistently emphasised the need for inclusive participation, particularly from small island developing states and underrepresented communities. This perspective is embedded in the award’s criteria, which prioritise collaboration, cross-disciplinary engagement and equitable representation.

Her decision to establish a legacy initiative before her passing reflects a strategic understanding of conservation timelines. Ocean ecosystems operate on scales that extend beyond individual careers. By investing in emerging leaders, she ensured continuity in advocacy and implementation.

Kathryn Audroing: A model of integrated conservation

The selection of Kathryn Audroing as a recipient of the inaugural award illustrates the qualities the programme seeks to promote. Her work spans three interconnected domains: scientific research, community stewardship and international policy engagement.

In Trinidad and Tobago, Audroing has focused extensively on marine turtles, species that serve as both ecological indicators and cultural symbols. These animals migrate across vast oceanic distances, linking coastal ecosystems with the high seas. Their conservation therefore requires coordination across local, national and international levels.

Her scientific contributions include coral propagation, seagrass restoration and coastal resilience research. These activities address critical components of marine ecosystems. Coral reefs provide habitat and coastal protection, while seagrass beds act as carbon sinks and nurseries for marine life. By engaging in both, she contributes to climate mitigation and biodiversity preservation.

Equally significant is her community-based approach. Through partnerships with fishers, volunteers and local leaders, she has developed conservation strategies that integrate traditional knowledge with scientific data. This model increases compliance and sustainability, as local stakeholders become active participants rather than passive recipients of policy.

From Trinidad and Tobago to global policy arenas

Audroing’s influence extends beyond national boundaries. She has represented Trinidad and Tobago in international negotiations, including discussions on global plastic pollution and ocean governance. Her participation in processes linked to the High Seas Treaty demonstrates the increasing role of small island states in shaping global environmental policy.

This involvement is particularly important given the disproportionate impact of ocean degradation on island nations. Rising sea levels, coral bleaching and declining fish stocks directly affect livelihoods, food security and economic stability. By contributing to policy development, Audroing helps ensure that these perspectives are incorporated into global frameworks.

Her advocacy for the principle of the “Common Heritage of Humankind” reflects a broader shift in environmental governance. This concept emphasises that the ocean is a shared resource requiring collective responsibility. It challenges traditional models that prioritise national or commercial interests over ecological integrity.

By bridging local action and international diplomacy, she exemplifies a new generation of conservationists capable of navigating complex governance systems while maintaining strong community connections.

Buccoo Reef and Nylon Pool Adventure

Our spectacular Nylon pool tour has 5 stops. We depart the Buccoo Jetty and journey to the Buccoo reef where you can see some of the most amazing corals and fishes through our Boat is a BOSTON WHALER LICENSE for 9 passengers . An opportunity to snorkel will also be granted on this tour. Our second stop will be at nylon pool and from there we journey to no man’s land pass at pigeon point on the lovely Coos going to the Lagoon

Why marine turtles matter globally

Marine turtles are central to Audroing’s work and to broader conservation efforts. These species perform essential ecological functions. They maintain healthy seagrass beds and coral reefs, both of which support diverse marine life and protect coastlines.

Their migratory behaviour also makes them indicators of ocean health across multiple regions. A decline in turtle populations often signals broader ecosystem disruptions. Conservation efforts targeting turtles therefore produce cascading benefits.

Trinidad and Tobago is one of the most important nesting sites in the Western Atlantic, particularly for leatherback turtles. Beaches such as Matura and Grande Riviere host thousands of nesting females annually. Protecting these sites has global implications, as they contribute significantly to the survival of the species.

Audroing’s work in this area demonstrates the effectiveness of integrated conservation strategies. By combining habitat protection, community engagement and policy advocacy, she addresses multiple threats simultaneously.

The role of Synchronicity Earth

Synchronicity Earth plays a critical role in advancing initiatives like the Ocean Stewardship Award. The organisation focuses on supporting underfunded and overlooked conservation efforts, particularly in regions with high biodiversity and limited resources.

Its approach aligns with principles of equitable funding and capacity building. Rather than imposing external solutions, it collaborates with local organisations and individuals who possess contextual knowledge. This strategy increases the effectiveness and sustainability of conservation projects.

By hosting the Ocean Stewardship Award, Synchronicity Earth extends this philosophy to leadership development. It recognises that long-term environmental outcomes depend not only on funding but also on the people who design and implement interventions.

Matura Beach Turtle-Watching Experience

Witness giant leatherback turtles lay eggs at Matura Beach in this turtle-watching experience. Journey to Trinidad’s eastern coast between March and August to join this organized nighttime excursion. Led by a small group of villagers, who are members of an authorized local turtle protection group, this tour allows you to observe the annual egg-laying, and even baby turtles hatching and running toward the sea, without disturbing the animals.

Trinidad and Tobago’s strategic importance

Trinidad and Tobago occupies a unique ecological position at the intersection of the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. This location supports diverse marine habitats, including coral reefs, mangroves and seagrass beds.

These ecosystems provide essential services. They support fisheries, protect coastlines and contribute to tourism. They also serve as critical habitats for migratory species such as marine turtles.

The country’s conservation efforts therefore have regional and global significance. Protecting nesting beaches and coastal habitats contributes to broader biodiversity goals and climate resilience.

Audroing’s work highlights how local initiatives can produce global benefits. By strengthening community stewardship and engaging in international policy, she ensures that Trinidad and Tobago remains a key player in ocean conservation.

How everyone can support turtle conservation

Individual action remains a crucial component of conservation. Visitors and residents can contribute in several meaningful ways.

Participating in organised turtle watching tours is one of the most accessible options. These tours are typically managed by trained guides who ensure minimal disturbance to nesting turtles. Following guidelines such as avoiding flash photography and maintaining distance helps protect the animals.

Volunteering with local conservation groups provides a more direct form of involvement. Activities may include beach patrols, data collection and public education. These efforts support ongoing research and protection programmes.

Reducing plastic use is another important step. Marine debris poses a significant threat to turtles, which may ingest or become entangled in waste. Simple changes in consumption habits can reduce this risk.

Supporting organisations financially or through advocacy also contributes to long-term conservation. Donations help fund research, equipment and community initiatives.

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Experiencing turtle nesting season in Trinidad and Tobago

Turtle nesting season in Trinidad and Tobago typically runs from March to August. During this period, visitors have the opportunity to observe one of nature’s most remarkable events.

Beaches such as Grande Riviere and Matura are internationally recognised for their nesting activity. Guided tours offer structured experiences that balance tourism with conservation. These programmes generate income for local communities while supporting protection efforts.

Experiencing turtle nesting provides more than visual appeal. It creates awareness of ecological processes and the challenges facing marine species. This awareness often translates into sustained support for conservation initiatives.

Visitors are encouraged to choose operators that adhere to established guidelines and collaborate with conservation organisations. Responsible tourism ensures that economic benefits do not come at the expense of ecological integrity.

A global call to stewardship

The recognition of Kathryn Audroing through the Ocean Stewardship Award underscores a broader shift in environmental governance. Effective conservation requires individuals who can integrate science, policy and community engagement.

The work of Synchronicity Earth and the legacy of Kristina Gjerde demonstrate that long-term impact depends on sustained investment in people as well as ecosystems.

For Trinidad and Tobago, this recognition highlights the country’s role in global conservation efforts. It reinforces the importance of protecting local ecosystems that contribute to global biodiversity.

For everyone else, it presents an opportunity to engage. Whether through responsible tourism, volunteer work or lifestyle changes, individual actions can support broader conservation goals.

Ocean stewardship is no longer confined to scientists and policymakers. It is a shared responsibility that connects local actions to global outcomes.

Hadco Experiences at Asa Wright Nature Centre (Ecolodge)

HADCO Experiences at Asa Wright Nature Centre is a sanctuary. Nestled in an ancient rainforest, in the Northern Range of the island of Trinidad, the Asa Wright Nature Centre was established in 1967 with a mission to protect part of the Arima and Aripo valleys for wildlife conservation, education, and scientific research. Home to an easily accessible breeding colony of the rare, nocturnal Oilbird, the Centre covers 1,500 acres of protected rainforest, which houses a rich biota with an outstanding species list that includes native mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and butterflies, and a variety of flowering plant species.

A sample of Kathryn Audroing’s work over the years

The Institute of Marine Affairs Celebrates Women and Girls in STEM Mar 12, 2026 Ms Kathryn Audroing—has successfully reared coral larvae, collected seagrass seeds for restoration trials, and conducted extensive community surveys across Tobago. https://www.planning.gov.tt/newsite/the-institute-of-marine-affairs-celebrates-women-and-girls-in-stem/

Navigating Towards a Brighter Future for Our Oceans Jul 22, 2025

Kathryn Audroing highlighted how her community developed a climate adaptation strategy for sea turtle nesting sites in the absence of policy, combining local knowledge with scientific data. This work, the focus of her OV Fellowship, led to her being invited as an expert on her national delegation for the plastics treaty negotiations.

Navigating Towards a Brighter Future for Our Oceans. July 22, 2025 – https://www.ocean-voices.org/an-ocean-of-potential

2018 WIDECAST AGM. Matura, Trinidad WI March 18 -21, 2018 https://www.widecast.org/What/AnnualMeeting/2018/Audroing,%20Turtle%20Village%20Trust.pdf

Ocean Voices | Kathryn Audroing’s Ripple Effect Impact Story – Nov 04, 2025 – https://www.ocean-voices.org/ripple_effect/ripple-effect-example

GIS Applications and Data Integration for Coastal Resilience https://canari.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/GIS-and-Data-Integration-for-Coastal-Resilience-Training-Report-4.2025.pdf

STATUS OF SEA TURTLES IN TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO Summary of Findings of the National Sea Turtle Conservation Programme 2013 – 2018 Compiled by Kathryn Audroing – Research Manager https://turtlevillagetrust.org/pdf/kaab%203%20sea%20turtle%20nesting%20report%20%20october%207%202019.pdf