‘Carl Sagan of our oceans’ kicks off speaker’s series

Paul Clinton

NEWPORT BEACH -- For Sylvia Earle, the world is her ocean.

The acclaimed marine biologist and author, who is set to speak in

Newport Beach today, subscribes to the theory that the oceans nurture

life on the planet.

That theme will be at the heart of Earle’s talk at 7 p.m. at the

Newport Beach Central Library, the first in this year’s Distinguished

Speakers series.

“She’ll be talking about the role oceans play in Earth’s well-being

and how important they are for society as a whole,” said Melissa Adams,

Newport Beach Community Services coordinator. “It’s a message she wants

to spread. She’s quite passionate.”

In addition to the Friday lecture, Earle is also scheduled to speak at

2 p.m. Saturday in the library’s Friends meeting room.

Known as the “Carl Sagan of our oceans,” Earle has written numerous

books on the ocean ecosystem. In October, she was inducted into the

National Women’s Hall of Fame.

Earle, 65, has also been recognized by the Library of Congress as a

Living Legend.

Her company, Deep Ocean Explorations and Research, designs systems for

submersibles. Earle has said she hopes to further educate the public

about the vital role oceans play as a nurturer of life.

“With knowing comes caring,” Earle said. “And with caring, there is

hope that we will find a place for ourselves within the natural systems

that sustain us.”

Tickets are still available for the lectures. Tickets for today’s talk

are $50, and include dinner and live music. Saturday’s lecture costs $15

and includes refreshments.

To order tickets, call (714) 740-2000.