Dr. Smith recently participated in a webinar by Mission Blue on Global Kelp Forests: Biodiversity, Climate, and Community.

Kelp forests are among the most vital and fascinating ecosystems on the planet—supporting rich biodiversity and shaping coastal communities worldwide. In August 2025, Mission Blue held a live, discussion-based Zoom webinar featuring expert voices from Argentina, Australia, California, and South Africa as they explored the science and human stories behind these underwater forests. Panelists included:

• Dr. Adriana Vergés, Professor of Marine Ecology, University of New South Wales and Kelp Forest Alliance
• Candelaria Belén Piemonte, Biologist and art-ivist, SOA Argentina
• Dr. Jennifer Smith, Professor, Marine Biology, Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego
• Loyiso Dunga aka The Kelp Keeper, Executive Director, The Seas of Good Hope; Parley for the Oceans; SANBI, South Africa
• Dr. Tessa Hempson, Chief Scientist, Mission Blue *Moderator

Watch the video below!