Erwan Sola

Biography

Dr Sola’s life work focuses on  coral reef science to promote conservation, protection and restoration of reefs in Mozambique and the Western Indian Ocean Region. He has worked in marine ecosystem research with universities, organisations, and international oil and gas companies to ensure that reefs are protected and managed sustainably. Since 2020 working at the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), he now thrives to bridge science to policy, through data collection in the field, training of government partners, developing monitoring tools and contributing to elaboration of stronger legislation for coral reefs. In particular, he has contributed to the newly approved National Strategy for the  Management and Conservation of Coral Reefs, which is now being implemented in the Country to help Mozambique achieve its coral reefs conservation goals over this next decade.

Erwan studied Animal Physiology and Marine Biology. He completed a PhD in Marine Biology and was the first Mozambican to hold a PhD in Coral Biology. He has expanded his interests in broader Marine Sciences, with a focus around reef ecology and Marine Conservation Science. He works on numerous projects around his country, from consulting for reef monitoring and management/conservation, to higher education and scientific research. He has worked with institutions such as the WWF, IUCN, CITES, universities and other government bodies, and he is part of regional networks within the Western Indian Ocean. He strives to promote Marine Science as an integral part of decision making concerning the management of our coastal waters and oceans, as well as help train the next generation of Marine Scientists in Mozambique with the vision of creating a skilled workforce to help manage and protect our vast and beautiful coastline.

Greatest Achievement

Helping promote Marine Conservation Science in Mozambique.

Professional Interests

Marine Ecology, Coral Reef Science, Management Conservation and Education.