01/07/2026
A GIANT in the scientific community. A source of pride for us in the Caribbean.
RIP Doctor. You have done well.
Institute of Marine Affairs Mourns the Passing of Professor Emeritus John Agard
The Institute of Marine Affairs (IMA) joins the national and international communities in mourning the loss of Professor Emeritus John Agard, who passed away on 19 June 2026.
Professor Agard was an internationally respected environmental scientist, a pioneering advocate for climate change action, and a steadfast champion of evidence-based sustainability management. His distinguished career began at the IMA in the mid-1980s, where he conducted foundational marine and ecological research before serving as Professor of Tropical Island Ecology and Head of the Department of Life Sciences at The University of the West Indies (UWI), St. Augustine.
His academic leadership and scientific contributions profoundly shaped ecological research and policy across the Caribbean. In July 2020, he supported the IMA, in collaboration with Republic Bank Limited, by delivering his presentation titled, “The Blue Economy Driving Economic Diversification: Possibilities and Challenges for Trinidad and Tobago” at the Institute’s first Virtual Distinguished Lecture on the Blue Economy. His presentation underscored the vast potential of the fisheries, pharmaceuticals, eco-tourism, and transport sectors to drive sustainable economic growth while preserving marine and coastal ecosystems. He called on the business community to champion climate-resilient, sustainable practices that would deliver lasting benefits for both people and the planet.
His research work and teachings shaped national environmental legislation, established protected areas such as the Matura Natural Park, Nariva Swamp, and Aripo Savannahs, and advanced conservation policies as Chairman of the Environmental Management Authority. Globally, he served as a Lead Author for the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), which shared the Nobel Peace Prize in 2007, and co-chaired the United Nation’s 2023 Global Sustainable Development Report team.
He inspired generations of ocean and environmental professionals, strengthened regional partnerships, and championed sustainable development for the Caribbean and beyond.
The IMA extends its deepest condolences to his family, friends, colleagues, and all those whose lives he touched. He will be remembered not only for his groundbreaking professional achievements, but also for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering commitment to advancing sustainable environmental management. Professor John Agard’s legacy is one of integrity, vision, and mentorship, which will continue to guide efforts toward a climate-secure and sustainable future.
Dr. Kennedy Swaratsingh Ministry of Planning, Economic Affairs and Development
UWI St. Augustine UTT - The University of Trinidad and Tobago Environmental Management Authority Republic Bank The Cropper Foundation NIHERST Caribbean Natural Resources Institute Association of Caribbean States (ACS-AEC) UN Environment Programme Inter-American Development Bank Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
