In an effort to reach the Latin American community, Sharon Chinchilla, CARTHE’s program manager, presented a synthesis of CARTHE’s work at the 2015 Cubambiente International Convention on Environment and Development. Being that some of the most understudied parts of the Gulf of Mexico are located in Cuban waters, it is critical to collaborate with the island nation on any multinational scientific initiatives, especially with regards to the Gulf.
Additionally, since CARTHE’s research is centered on oil transport, Sharon took the opportunity to discuss how it could be of use to the country’s oil sector while minimizing the risk of socioeconomic impacts. With the support of various international oil companies, Cuba is gearing up for an offshore drilling campaign that will take place in the coming years. While the Caribbean nation may be ready to exploit its oil reserves, it also recognizes the need to do so responsibly. Cuban scientists agree that the protection of their precious marine resources is of high priority and will in turn serve to protect other industries, like tourism, which they so heavily rely on.
Sharon also had a chance to explore the fascinating city of Havana, where the country’s rich culture and age-old traditions are as alive today as they were hundreds of years ago.