Peter Espeut, a distinguished Jamaican sociologist, environmentalist and Roman Catholic deacon, has made a lasting impact on both science and society through his interdisciplinary work. A graduate of Campion College and St. George's College, he excelled in both the sciences and humanities, earning a BSc in Chemistry and a BA in Theology (First Class Honours) from The University of the West Indies. His passion for teaching and knowledge-sharing began at St. Mary’s College, where he taught multiple subjects and led several student clubs. Over time, his interest in social and environmental issues deepened, and his academic work (M.Phil. in sociology and rural development) and his award-winning studies on rural poverty and economic development, reflected a commitment to understanding the challenges facing Jamaica’s underserved communities. In 1996, he was ordained a Permanent Deacon and served parishes in Harbour View, Bull Bay, and Port Royal, while representing the Roman Catholic Church on the Jamaica Council of Churches. Espeut’s career took a pivotal turn when he began applying his scientific and sociological expertise to environmental conservation. He worked with the UN's Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) to study Jamaica’s marine and inland fisheries and became one of the first scientists locally to engage fishers in conservation practices. Perhaps, his most significant achievement was the conceptualization and management of the Portland Bight area—a rich coastal and forested ecosystem—which he oversaw through leadership roles at the South Coast Conservation Foundation (SCCF) and later the Caribbean Coastal Area Management Foundation (C-CAM). For this work, he was awarded the Pew Fellowship in Conservation and the Environment in 1996. He has also served in numerous national advisory capacities related to marine health, waste management, and coral reef preservation. Mr. Espeut is a vocal advocate for sustainable development, using his weekly column in The Gleaner to raise awareness on social, religious, and environmental issues. For his outstanding contribution to environmental science and national development, the Institute of Jamaica awarded him the Silver Musgrave Medal in 2008. The Reverend Deacon Peter Espeut is currently the Dean of Studies and Lecturer in Sociology at St. Michael’s College and Seminary. Updated October, 2025