Three panels affiliated with Scripps Oceanography have been selected as finalists for SXSW 2020.

The South by Southwest (SXSW) Conference, taking place from March 13-22, 2020, in Austin, Texas, has introduced a new programming track focused on Climate and Social Action. This year's event promises to be a hub for discovery, learning, and creativity, with a myriad of panels exploring technology, film, culture, music, and most importantly, climate change and social action.

One of the intriguing panels proposed by Scripps Oceanography is "Can Religion Embrace Climate Action?", which delves into the role of religious leaders in encouraging their followers to be better stewards of the planet. The discussion will feature Rev. Dr. Katharine Hayhoe, Dr. Mustafa Santiago Ali, and Rabbi David Seidenberg, among others.

Another panel, "Deep Ocean: Exploring and Protecting the Unknown", will focus on the exploration and mapping of deep ocean environments. This panel promises to be an exciting journey into the depths of our oceans, shedding light on the mysteries that lie beneath.

The panel "Shed-free Chic: Making Apparel Plastic Free" addresses the impact of microfibers on the environment and potential human health. This discussion is particularly relevant as it touches upon a pressing issue that affects us all - the clothing we wear.

Voting for these panels and many more is now open until Aug. 23, 2020. Interested individuals can create a free SXSW login and select the "Vote Up" button on the desired panel's page.

In addition to these panels, the University of California, San Diego has three panels proposed for SXSW 2020. Notable speakers include Veerabhadran Ramanathan, a Distinguished Professor of Atmospheric and Climate Sciences, and Natalya Gallo, a Postdoctoral Researcher, both from UC San Diego.

The Climate and Social Action track will highlight innovations for a more socially equitable and environmentally sustainable world. Panels such as "Understanding and Innovating Around Microfibers" and "Exploring and Protecting the Deep Ocean" exemplify this commitment to creating a better future.

Moreover, SXSW has gathered esteemed researchers from collaborating institutions, industry innovators, and journalists/reporters from influential media outlets to participate in these panels. Matt Russell, the Executive Director of Iowa Interfaith Power & Light, and Melody Zhang, the Steering Committee Co-Chair of Young Evangelicals for Climate Action, are among the speakers.

Lastly, Elizabeth Dias, the National Faith and Values Correspondent for the New York Times, and Mark Kaufman, a Science Reporter for Mashable, will also be participating in various panels, bringing their insightful perspectives to the discussions.

Vincent Pieribone, Vice Chairman of OceanX, and Rochelle Wigley, the Project Director for Nippon Foundation GEBCO Projects at the Center for Coastal and Ocean Mapping at the University of New Hampshire, are also slated to speak at the conference.

The 2020 SXSW Conference promises to be an enlightening and engaging event, with panels that encourage thought, discussion, and action on some of the most pressing issues of our time. Don't miss out - vote for your favourite panels today!