Emily Hazelwood + Amber Sparks

While earning their Masters in Marine Biodiversity and Conservation at Scripps Institution of Oceanography, Emily Hazelwood and Amber Sparks bonded over scuba diving, and the path that formed for each of them was quite brag worthy. A PADI^® Divemaster, marine conservation biologist, oil and gas consultant and explorer, Hazelwood worked as a field technician on the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Sparks, an oceanographer, environmental scientist and entrepreneur, was an ocean curator at Google. Together, the two powerhouses created Blue Latitudes, a program dedicated to research, develop and implement an international protocol for the Rigs-to-Reefs decommissioning option. “We engage key players to find sustainable and long-term solutions for these unique ecosystems thriving below the controversial oil and gas platforms,” says Sparks. “By interpreting the essential principles and fundamental concepts of the Rigs-to-Reefs program, we strive to help the public make informed and responsible decisions regarding the ocean and its resources,” adds Hazelwood.

• Named among the Top “Ten Under 30 Making a Difference in the West” by High Country Magaine
• Named “Ocean Conservation Heroes” by Origin Magazine
• Each received a Masters in Marine Biodiversity and Conservation at Scripps Institution of Oceanography
• Received the TriBeCa Film Festival's TriBeCa Disruptive Innovators Award (Spring 2016)

• http://www.rig2reefexploration.org/