Where Science Meets
the Shoreline

Nester Brian Fernandes is a marine biologist and conservation educator based in Goa, and the founder of Canopy By The Coast — a for-profit social enterprise focused on marine and coastal conservation through research, education, and public engagement.

His work spans marine megafauna, sea turtle nesting ecology, intertidal ecosystems, and broader coastal biodiversity conservation along Goa's shoreline. He has also contributed to initiatives within the climate space, linking coastal ecosystem health to climate resilience and adaptation.

Nester is actively involved in marine animal stranding response and contributes to regional conservation networks, supporting scientific documentation and protocol development. He has worked with defence and government agencies, including the Forest Department, on conservation awareness and capacity-building initiatives.

He designs and leads field-based ecology programs for schools and institutions, promoting scientific literacy and responsible engagement with marine ecosystems. In 2024, he received the Goa State Biodiversity Enthusiast Award (South Goa) for his contributions to biodiversity education and conservation.