John Englander

John Englander is the co-founder of the Rising Seas Institute, now a program of Nova Southeastern University, where he serves as the founding director. The mission of the institute is advancing adaptation to rising sea levels through improved understanding of science, engineering, economics, and risk.

Englander is a renowned oceanographer, author, consultant, and international speaker on climate change—a clear voice on sea level rise risks and solutions. His broad marine science background, coupled with explorations to Greenland and Antarctica, allows him to see the big-picture impacts of changing climate and sea level rise on society. His mission is to be a clear, apolitical voice on our changing climate and oceans.

Englander has authored two highly acclaimed books about climate change and sea level rise, Moving to Higher Ground: Rising Sea Level and the Path Forward (2021) and High Tide on Main Street (2012). His second book focuses on the forces driving climate change and sea level rise(SLR). As sea level rise increases each year, he updates the science and demonstrates that excess heat already stored in our oceans guarantees SLR will continue for centuries to come. High Tide on Main Street established Englander as a leading authority on rising sea levels, able to translate the latest science into practical information for strategic coastal planning and adaptation.

A frequent speaker at national and international conventions, Englander is often chosen as the keynote speaker for a wide range of industries and interests including climate, military, business, civic planners, and engineers. His customized approach, and unique ability to demystify the science and provide insights into the future, resonates with community and business leaders. Avoiding doomsday scenarios, he lays out the serious challenges and hidden opportunities that can allow organizations to thrive in the face of the major changes ahead. He brings the diverse points of view of an industry scientist, entrepreneur, and executive.

He has led many expeditions to Greenland and the High Arctic, including dives under the polar ice cap. Englander has delivered high-level briefings about rising sea level to the U.S. Congress, the U.S. Naval Academy, leaders of all eight Arctic nations Coast Guard services, the U.S. Air Force, and corporate executives for companies including General Electric. He has been CEO of several ocean-focused businesses and nonprofit organizations, including The Cousteau Society, where he was personally hired by the legendary Jacques Cousteau.

Englander is a Research Fellow at the Institute of Marine Sciences – UC Santa Cruz; a Fellow of the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMarEST); a Fellow of the Explorers Club, carrying their flag on a diving expedition under the High Arctic Ice Cap in 1985; and a member of several professional societies. 

Englander received a Bachelor of Science in Geology and Economics from Dickinson College.