Theme: Sustainability

In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized (subject to certain rules and regulations).

Encinitas Library Community Room
540 Cornish Dr
Encinitas, California, 92024
United States

Aaron Bruckbauer

Materials Scientist

Aaron Bruckbauer, is a materials scientist and entrepreneur dedicated to advancing sustainable and eco-friendly materials. He studied at the University of California, San Diego, where his research focused on developing high-performance polyurethane materials from renewable resources such as microalgae or corn. His work bridges the gap between sustainability and commercial viability, helping industries transition toward more environmentally responsible materials. In addition to his scientific and entrepreneurial endeavors, Aaron is an advocate for interdisciplinary education and leadership and has previously served on a leadership advisory council to foster collaborations between researchers and industry stakeholders. His work is driven by the vision of a circular, economy where science, policy, and industry, align to create a sustainable future.

Catherine Blakespear

CA State Senator

Catherine Blakespear was elected in 2022 as the state senator for the 38th District, which represents northern San Diego County and southern Orange County. She previously served eight years in local government – six years as the Encinitas Mayor and two on the Encinitas City Council. Blakespear sits on the Senate’s committees on governmental organization and transportation. She is on the Budget and Fiscal Review Committee and Budget Subcommittee 2 on Resources, Environmental Protection and Energy. She is Chair of the Senate Environmental Quality Committee and Chair of the Senate Transportation Subcommittee on LOSSAN Rail Corridor Resiliency, which is tasked with improving support for the 351-mile rail line that runs from San Diego to San Luis Obispo and faces climate change threats. She also is on the Joint Legislative Committee on Climate Change Policies.

Daryn Tarasewicz

Youth Activist

Daryn Tarasewicz is a youth climate activist and highschool student. Since joining the activism group Youth v. Oil, she has been speaking with government officials, planning events, and leading and mobilizing youth across the county. As a hardcore treehugger, she has an unwavering love for the natural world and believes frontline action is necessary to preserve it. Through education and outreach, Daryn aims to inspire the next generation of passionate activism to fight for a better future.

Dimitri Deheyn

Marine Biologist & Ecotoxicologist

Dimitri Deheyn is a marine biologist and ecotoxicologist at Scripps Institution of Oceanography, UC San Diego. His cross-disciplinary research focuses on plastics, especially microplastics, which pose serious threats due to their ability to enter organisms and the food web, including humans. He explores the potential toxicity of plastic materials and their chemical additives, emphasizing the importance of public education and global citizen science efforts. With a background rooted in Belgium, Africa, and South America, Deheyn brings a global perspective to environmental health. His goal is to better understand microplastic production and distribution and help develop solutions that protect ecosystems and future societies.

Taarika Sethee

Youth Activist

Taarika Sethee is the Youth4Climate Intern at SanDiego350 and a sophomore at Canyon Crest Academy. She is deeply engaged in climate advocacy, driven by a lifelong connection to nature and a commitment to empowering youth from diverse backgrounds to lead in the fight for climate justice. Beyond her environmental work, Taarika is a competitive dancer, accomplished public speaker, founder of the Beads4Needs service initiative, and a Punjabi language instructor at her local temple. Through her leadership, she aims to inspire the next generation to create a more just and sustainable future.