Andrew Lewin explores the need for radical change in our energy consumption AND the way we purchase anything to combat climate change. He discusses the communication work of Sage Lenier, a TikToker who highlights the importance of renewable energy sources. Andrew discusses the challenges of changing our lifestyles and emphasizes the collective responsibility to protect the ocean.

Tune in to learn more about the role of TikTok in raising awareness and taking action for a better ocean.

Sage's TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sagelenier

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The episode emphasizes the urgent need for radical change in our lifestyles and consumption habits. It highlights that the current thinking and practices of both companies and individuals are unsustainable, and it is high time for a transformation. The host emphasizes that transitioning to renewable energy sources like solar panels and windmills is not enough; we must also revolutionize our thought processes and way of life. This includes spending more time outdoors, reconnecting with nature, and recognizing the benefits of a healthy natural environment. The episode also delves into the significance of purchasing sustainable materials and products, while shedding light on the long-term detrimental effects of poorly made and unethical products on both individuals and the environment. It emphasizes that the need for change extends beyond the fashion industry and encompasses all aspects of our lives, such as reducing meat consumption and minimizing unnecessary plastic use. Overall, the episode advocates for a shift towards a nature-oriented lifestyle and a conscious approach to consumption.

In the episode, the importance of purchasing sustainable materials and products is underscored. The speaker points out that although poorly made and ethically questionable clothes may appear appealing in the short term, they ultimately harm both individuals and the environment in the long run. It is emphasized that not only the fashion industry, but also other industries that utilize plastics or unnecessary resources, contribute to the adverse impact on the environment.

The speaker further discusses the need to go beyond the renewable energy sector and focus on transforming our consumption patterns. It is argued that companies should be held accountable for creating products sustainably and ethically, taking into consideration labor exploitation in the production process. The globalization of product manufacturing, particularly in countries like China and Africa, has made it challenging to exert influence over specific regulations and ensure ethical practices.

Furthermore, the episode highlights that purchasing sustainable materials and products can significantly reduce an individual's environmental footprint. By abstaining from buying clothes made from inferior materials or reliant on petroleum, individuals can contribute to minimizing their impact on the environment. However, it acknowledges that finding and affording sustainable clothing is not easy, and a substantial educational campaign is necessary to raise awareness about the sustainability of the products we purchase.

Overall, the episode underscores the importance of purchasing sustainable materials and products, as they are not only more cost-effective in the long run but also have a positive impact on the environment and labor practices. It calls for a shift in our consumption patterns and emphasizes the need for companies to adopt sustainable and ethical practices in their production processes.

The episode emphasizes the need for behavioral change to benefit both ourselves and the planet. It specifically highlights the significance of reducing meat consumption by 75% and opting for plant-based protein alternatives. By doing so, we can significantly decrease the greenhouse gas emissions generated by the meat industry, which is a major contributor to climate change. The episode emphasizes that this message is supported by scientists and individuals advocating for climate action. It also acknowledges that making such a change will require a shift in mindset and education. Additionally, the episode mentions that changing our behavior extends beyond just reducing meat consumption. It encompasses various aspects of our lives, such as purchasing sustainable materials, avoiding single-use plastics, and being more mindful of our consumption habits. The episode suggests that making these changes is not only beneficial for the environment but also for our long-term well-being.

Andrew Lewin interviews Sophia Volzke, an expert on elephant seals, specifically focusing on Neil the seal, who has become a viral sensation on TikTok. They discuss Neil's behavior, his interaction with humans, and the questions surrounding his safety and return to the ocean. They also touch on the broader topic of elephant seal conservation in Tasmania. Sophia shares her background and journey from Germany to Australia, where she studied marine biology.

Tune in to learn more about Neil the Seal and the fascinating world of elephant seal conservation.

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The episode explores the advantages of working a full-time job before pursuing further education. The speaker shares their personal experience of working part-time while studying, which they found to be beneficial. They believe that juggling work and school made them more focused and appreciative of their education. They didn't take their studies for granted because they had worked hard to reach their goals. Additionally, the speaker highlights the transferable skills gained from their full-time job, such as people management and teamwork, which have proven valuable in their academic pursuits. They emphasize the importance of communication and project coordination skills acquired from their job, which have greatly contributed to their work in the field of science. Overall, the episode suggests that working a full-time job before pursuing further education can provide valuable skills and experiences that enhance academic studies.

In the episode, the guest speaker emphasizes the significance of having a clear plan and focus to make the undergraduate and graduate experience more enjoyable and fulfilling. Initially uncertain about their career path, the speaker discovered their specific field of interest during their three years of undergraduate studies. This newfound focus allowed them to make the most of their undergraduate experience.

Furthermore, the guest speaker highlights the benefits of acquiring transferable skills through full-time employment before pursuing further studies. They emphasize the value of skills such as people management and teamwork, which have greatly aided them in their current academic pursuits. These skills have enabled effective communication of scientific concepts and coordination with multiple supervisors, enhancing their overall graduate experience.

Additionally, the guest speaker shares their personal experience of working for a period after completing their undergraduate studies. This experience provided them with focus and readiness for their graduate studies, as they had a clear plan and knew their preferences. This underscores the importance of having a clear direction and goals to maximize the fulfillment of the graduate experience.

Overall, the episode suggests that having a specific plan and focus can significantly enhance the undergraduate and graduate experience. It allows individuals to make the most of their studies, gain valuable skills, and have a clearer sense of purpose and direction in their academic pursuits.

The episode also emphasizes the importance of cultivating strong relationships with supervisors, committees, and colleagues in a PhD program. The speakers highlight that establishing positive working relationships with these individuals is crucial for success in a PhD program.

One speaker shares their experience of having a supportive team and supervisors, which is why they continue to work with them. They intentionally sought out the right people to work with and carefully curated their team. They express surprise at the notion of people joining a project without knowing who they will be working with, as they believe that the team dynamic is just as important as the project itself.

Another speaker shares their perspective on the significance of having a strong team. They mention that although no one explicitly told them to prioritize building a good team, it was something they instinctively understood. Drawing from their previous work experience in hospitality, where relationship-building and people management were crucial, they emphasize the importance of meeting and getting to know the individuals they would be working with from the beginning.

Overall, the episode underscores the importance of building strong relationships with supervisors, committees, and colleagues for success in a PhD program. It is crucial to actively seek out the right people to work with, as the team dynamic can greatly impact the overall experience.

Chapters:

[00:00:08] Neil the seal.

[00:06:27] Pursuing education abroad.

[00:09:11] Studying marine biology in Australia.

[00:14:04] Interest in mathematics and statistics.

[00:18:05] Unique approach to studying marine mammals.

[00:22:05] Unique perspective on postgraduate world.

[00:27:16] Climate influences on population.

[00:33:07] Elephant seal size.

[00:35:32] Neil the seal's viral fame.

[00:40:24] Neil's GPS tracker

[00:44:30] Seal encounters and beach safety.

[00:49:35] Neil's fascination with pylons.

[00:53:41] Neil the Seal's popularity.

[00:56:48] Marine mammal conferences.

Andrew Lewin interviews Joseph Barnes, a recent Master's graduate from American University, about his research on microplastic behavior in the Potomac River.

They discuss the abundance of microplastics based on seasons and the presence of organisms, as well as how microplastics are used within the ecosystem.

Tune in to learn more about this important topic and how we can protect the ocean from the impacts of microplastics.

Link to Joseph's paper: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e23239

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Joe is a passionate advocate for addressing the issue of microplastics and is known for his enthusiastic and fiery approach. The podcast host acknowledges Joe's dedication and describes him as someone who always brings the fire when discussing microplastics and plastics in general. Joe's desire to make a difference and contribute to solving the microplastics problem is emphasized. The host expresses excitement about Joe's career and looks forward to having him back on the podcast multiple times to discuss his work. It is evident that Joe's commitment to addressing microplastics is unwavering and his passion is palpable.

The podcast host expresses genuine excitement about Joe's career and expresses a desire to follow his journey and invite him back on the show multiple times to delve into his work. This indicates that Joe has been a valuable guest on the podcast, sharing valuable insights and expertise, likely related to microplastics. The host appreciates Joe's passion for addressing the microplastics issue and his determination to make a positive impact. They anticipate that Joe will continue to make significant contributions in his field, and they are eager to continue featuring his work on the podcast. This highlights Joe's high regard and expertise in the field of microplastics.

In this episode, the host Andrew Lewin introduces the topic of microplastics and focuses on their behavior in rivers. He acknowledges that there is still much research needed to fully understand how microplastics behave in the ecosystem and how organisms interact with them. To shed light on this topic, he invites Joseph Barnes, a recent graduate from American University, who conducted a research project on microplastic behavior in the Potomac River in Washington.

According to Barnes, microplastics have the ability to bioaccumulate throughout the food web. This means that they can be ingested by algae, which are then consumed by invertebrates, and so on. As microplastics move up the food chain, they can become a significant problem. Barnes suggests that if mammals or fish in the river show a high accumulation of microplastics or remnants of microplastics in their systems, it could indicate a concerning level of contamination.

Lewin also highlights the unique nature of microplastics in rivers compared to other sources of pollution. While discharges from industries are often regulated and controlled point sources, microplastics are less predictable. They can originate from various sources, making it challenging to determine when and where they will enter the river. Barnes's research focused on studying the interaction between microplastics and microorganisms in the river, rather than identifying their specific sources.

Overall, this episode delves into the behavior of microplastics in rivers and emphasizes the potential risks they pose to organisms within the ecosystem.

In this episode of the How to Protect the Ocean podcast, host Andrew Lewin discusses the urgent need for action to address climate change and protect the ocean. While there is growing awareness and conversations about these issues, the actions taken do not always align with the words. Time is running out, and it is crucial that tangible actions are taken to make a positive impact. Lewin emphasizes the importance of moving beyond empty promises and actually implementing effective measures to safeguard the ocean and combat climate change.

Link to A Climate Change Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/a-climate-change-with-matt-matern/id1557317787

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In this episode, the host emphasizes the importance of shifting our mindset from consumerism to considering the impact on the planet when making purchasing decisions. They argue that our current mindset of accumulating material possessions and constantly buying more is not only unnecessary but also detrimental to the environment.

Consumerism, as the host explains, is driven by the belief that having more stuff equates to winning or achieving success. However, they question the notion of what exactly we win by accumulating more things and conclude that there is no tangible reward. This realization prompts the host to argue that it is not necessary to continue with a consumerist mindset.

Instead, the host advocates for a shift in thinking towards considering the planet when making purchases. This means being mindful of the environmental impact of our choices and making more sustainable decisions. They acknowledge their own guilt in sometimes succumbing to the temptation of buying unnecessary items but highlight the importance of reflecting on our consumption habits.

The host suggests that we should question whether we truly need multiple versions of the same item, such as reusable cups or mugs. By reducing our consumption and making conscious choices, we can contribute to protecting the environment and combating climate change. They encourage listeners to prioritize the well-being of the planet over material possessions and to consider the long-term consequences of their actions.

Overall, the episode emphasizes the need to shift our mindset from consumerism to a more environmentally conscious approach when it comes to purchasing. By adopting this mindset, we can contribute to the protection of the planet, the ocean, and the overall environment.

In this episode, the speaker emphasizes that money and material possessions do not guarantee happiness. They acknowledge that having more things may temporarily make someone feel better, especially if they have more than others or acquire things before someone else. However, the speaker highlights that when speaking to individuals who are nearing the end of their lives, it becomes clear that it is the experiences in life that truly count, rather than the amount of stuff one possesses.

The speaker emphasizes that true happiness comes from experiences and relationships. They mention that it is not just about engaging in activities like hiking or exploring the environment, but also about being around the people we love, such as family and pets. The speaker suggests that it is how we live our lives that truly matters and that we should focus on enjoying life and having adventures, rather than constantly striving to accumulate more things.

While money can provide security and alleviate financial stress, the speaker argues that it is not the key to happiness. They acknowledge that money can put someone in a position to do things that make them happy, but it is not the sole determinant of happiness. Instead, the speaker encourages a shift in mindset from the pursuit of material possessions to valuing experiences and relationships.

In the context of addressing climate change, the speaker argues that a change in mindset is necessary. They emphasize that simply talking about the issue and making small individual changes is not enough. Instead, they advocate for a more aggressive approach and a commitment to taking direct action. The speaker suggests that working towards addressing climate change requires moving away from the focus on acquiring more things and instead prioritizing the well-being of the planet and future generations.

Overall, the episode highlights that money and material possessions do not guarantee happiness. Instead, true happiness comes from the experiences we have and the relationships we cultivate in our lives. The speaker encourages a shift in mindset towards valuing these aspects of life and taking action to address important issues such as climate change.

According to the podcast episode, it is emphasized that we need to be aggressive in our approach to climate change and ocean protection. The host expresses frustration with the lack of action being taken despite the acknowledgement of these issues. It is mentioned that while there is a lot of talk and promises being made, there is a lack of follow-through and actual action being taken.

The urgency of the situation is highlighted, with the host stating that we are running out of time. It is emphasized that in order to make a difference and protect the planet, we need to act more and act fast. The host mentions that this pace of action needs to be continued and that we cannot afford to slow down at this point.

The podcast also references another podcast called "A Climate Change with Matt Maddern," where the host discusses climate change and interviews people involved in addressing the issue. The host recommends listening to this podcast and encourages listeners to share their thoughts on it. However, it is mentioned that not much is known about Matt Maddern, other than the fact that he was involved in politics at one point and is from the US.

Andrew Lewin and guest Natalie Gilson, Vice President of Science Communication for Pisces Research Project Management Incorporated discuss the importance of effective communication for nonprofit organizations.

They explore the need for nonprofits to make their supporters feel like a part of a community rather than just constantly asking for donations. The conversation delves into potential solutions, such as building strong relationships with supporters and creating engaging content.

Tune in to learn more about improving nonprofit communications and fostering a sense of community.

Connect with Natalie Gilson: Pisces Research Project Management - https://www.piscesrpm.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-mae-gilson/

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In this episode, the speakers emphasize the importance of audience-centric communication and storytelling for organizations to stand out in a crowded online space. They argue that organizations need to shift their focus from talking about themselves to creating a connection with their audience. By incorporating storytelling into communication, organizations can effectively achieve this goal.

The speakers point out that constantly talking about oneself can be off-putting to the audience. Instead, they encourage organizations to invite their audience into a story and make them the hero. By doing so, organizations can forge a stronger connection with their audience, making them feel involved and acknowledged.

Regular and consistent communication is also highlighted as valuable. When organizations communicate regularly, it helps people feel included in the story and more likely to engage. By putting effort into communicating with their audience, organizations can show that they value their supporters and create a sense of reward and acknowledgment.

Furthermore, the speakers emphasize the importance of considering the audience's perspective in communication. They suggest that organizations should step outside their own viewpoint and think about how their audience can be more involved. By flipping the communication around and considering the audience's needs and interests, organizations can make a significant difference in their messaging.

Overall, the episode underscores the importance of audience-centric communication and storytelling for organizations to stand out and create meaningful connections with their audience.

Regular and meaningful communication is essential for nonprofit organizations to create a sense of inclusion and reward for their supporters. By consistently communicating with their audience, nonprofits ensure that supporters do not forget about them and feel included in the organization's story. When the executive director or other representatives of the organization take the time to send messages, such as videos or updates, it shows that the organization values and appreciates its supporters. This, in turn, encourages supporters to continue putting effort into the organization.

While nonprofits may not provide personal or physical rewards to their supporters, the psychological reward of feeling acknowledged and making a difference is important. Supporters want to feel that their contributions are seen, felt, and acknowledged. Nonprofits can achieve this by providing regular updates on the impact of donations and showing supporters how their contributions have made a difference. This can be done through videos, social media updates, or creatively crafted graphics that highlight the organization's achievements.

By implementing regular and meaningful communication strategies, nonprofits can stand out from others that solely focus on asking for donations. Supporters are more likely to feel like they are part of a community when they receive updates and see the impact of their contributions. Nonprofits can also empower supporters to take action on their own by providing toolkits and resources that they can share on social media or use to address local ocean issues. By fostering a two-way dialogue and involving the community in spreading the organization's message, nonprofits can effectively communicate their mission and create a sense of inclusion and reward for their supporters.

Andrew Lewin discusses a recent study that reveals major cities on the U.S. East Coast are sinking at a rate of up to 5 millimeters per year. The sinking land poses a significant risk to infrastructure such as roads, railways, airports, and pipelines. The study highlights the need for increased awareness and action to mitigate the potential damage and increased flood risks. The episode emphasizes the importance of considering sinking land alongside sea level rise and the challenges faced by cities in upgrading and adapting their infrastructure.

Link to article: https://phys.org/news/2024-01-nyc-dc-cities-east-coast.html

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According to a recently published paper by Virginia Tech and the U.S. Geological Survey, major cities on the U.S. East Coast are sinking at a rate of up to 5 millimeters per year. This may not seem significant, but the long-term implications are concerning, especially considering the high population and infrastructure density in these areas. The study focuses on the sinking of the land itself, separate from sea level rise, which exacerbates the issue. The sinking land poses a threat to critical infrastructure such as roads, railways, airports, and levees, increasing the risk of damage from flooding and storm surges. The study highlights that this sinking land intersects directly with population and infrastructure hubs, such as New York City, Long Island, Baltimore, Virginia Beach, and Norfolk.

The authors emphasize the need for attention to this issue, as it can lead to significant damage and increased flood risks. The cost of upgrading and maintaining infrastructure in these sinking areas is expected to be substantial, and the process of making necessary changes is often complex and expensive. The study provides valuable information on the sinking of land along the U.S. East Coast, which is not being widely addressed by other sources. It serves as a wake-up call for cities to prioritize infrastructure updates and consider the sinking land when planning for the future. The sinking land, combined with rising sea levels and increased storm intensity, poses a major challenge for coastal cities and requires proactive measures to mitigate potential damage and protect vital infrastructure.

According to the podcast transcript, the sinking of land along the US East Coast is a separate issue from sea level rise. The sinking of the land, also known as subsidence, is occurring at a rate of up to five millimeters per year in certain areas, such as New York City, Long Island, Baltimore, and Virginia Beach. This subsidence is causing the land to sink, while sea levels are simultaneously rising. When these two factors are combined, it can lead to increased flood risks and damage to critical infrastructure.

The sinking of the land is a significant concern because it affects areas with high population and property density, as well as historical complacency towards infrastructure maintenance. The podcast highlights the potential impacts on roadways, runways, building foundations, rail lines, and pipelines. These infrastructure elements are at risk of damage from flooding and storm surges.

The podcast emphasizes the importance of addressing this issue, as the sinking land intersects directly with population and infrastructure hubs. For example, major airports like JFK and LaGuardia in New York City, as well as railway systems, are already being affected by subsidence rates exceeding two millimeters per year. This can lead to disruptions in transportation and increased flood risks.

The podcast also mentions the challenges and costs associated with addressing this issue. Upgrading and relocating infrastructure can be difficult and expensive, especially in larger cities. The authors of the study mentioned in the podcast emphasize the need for this information and highlight the value of the Virginia Tech team's work in providing accurate data on subsidence rates.

Overall, the sinking of the land along the US East Coast, when combined with sea level rise, poses significant risks to critical infrastructure and increases the potential for flooding. This issue requires attention and consideration from cities and governments to mitigate the impacts and protect coastal communities.

The study discussed in the episode emphasizes the importance of cities prioritizing the updating and maintenance of infrastructure based on areas of sinking land. The sinking of land along the US East Coast poses a significant risk to critical infrastructure such as roads, railways, airports, and levees. The sinking land intersects directly with population and infrastructure hubs, making it crucial for cities to address this issue to prevent potential damage and increased flood risks.

The episode mentions that the sinking land can lead to billions, if not trillions, of dollars in damages over the years. Upgrading and moving infrastructure in response to sinking land can be a costly and complex process. The episode highlights the difficulties and expenses associated with making changes to infrastructure, as mentioned by Dr. Andrew Thaler, who has experience in climate change committees.

The authors of the study argue that the sinking of land is not an intangible threat and that it affects millions of people and hundreds of thousands of properties along the East Coast. They stress the need for cities to take this issue seriously and consider the potential impacts on infrastructure and the increased flood risks.

The episode suggests that cities should use the study's findings to prioritize infrastructure updates and maintenance based on areas of sinking land. By identifying the areas that are sinking at a higher rate, cities can allocate resources and investments to mitigate the risks and protect critical infrastructure. This approach would involve considering the sinking land in combination with sea level rise and increased storm surges caused by climate change.

Overall, the episode highlights the need for cities to be proactive in addressing the sinking land issue and investing in infrastructure updates and maintenance. By doing so, cities can minimize potential damages and ensure the resilience of their infrastructure in the face of rising sea levels and increased storm intensity.

Andrew Lewin discusses the Canadian government's efforts to tackle plastic pollution. He explains that the government has implemented a ban on certain single-use plastics and is now planning to create a federal plastics registry. The registry will require companies to track and report their plastic production, as well as the lifecycle of their products.

This will help to hold companies accountable for their plastic waste and move Canada towards a circular economy for plastics. Andrew highlights the importance of tracking and managing plastics, as the majority of plastic waste in Canada ends up in landfills or the natural environment. He also discusses the potential economic impact of the registry on companies.

Overall, Andrew believes that the federal plastics registry is an important tool for addressing plastic pollution and encourages listeners to share their thoughts on the issue.

Link to article: https://www.ctvnews.ca/climate-and-environment/feds-open-plastics-registry-consultations-in-move-to-eventually-track-waste-1.6708502

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The Canadian federal government has taken a significant step towards addressing plastic pollution by calling for the establishment of a plastics registry. This registry aims to track the companies and types of plastics they produce, as well as monitor their lifecycle within the marketplace and their final destinations after use. The purpose of this registry is to regulate plastics more effectively and reduce plastic pollution in Canada.

Plastic pollution is a pressing issue that affects not only Canada but also the entire world. Plastics have permeated every part of the ocean, with microplastics found in both surface and deep-sea waters. This widespread pollution has harmful effects on marine animals, water chemistry, and human health. Recognizing the severity of the problem, various countries, including Canada, have been implementing policies and regulations to control plastic production and usage.

The Canadian government's efforts to tackle plastic pollution began in 2018 when they announced plans to ban certain single-use plastics, such as straws, utensils, and coffee stir sticks. These bans are being phased in gradually, and by 2022, these items will no longer be allowed to be imported, exported, or produced in Canada. These bans were made possible by classifying plastics as toxins under the Canadian Protections Act, giving the government the authority to regulate them.

However, a recent court ruling challenged the classification of plastics as toxins, but the ban remains in place while the government appeals the ruling. In the meantime, the government is moving forward with the creation of a federal plastics registry. This registry will require companies to track and report their plastic production, providing valuable data on the amount and types of plastics being produced. It will also monitor the lifecycle of these plastics, from production to disposal, and identify any gaps or missing information.

The registry will be implemented in phases, with some sectors, such as packaging and electrical equipment, required to report their plastic production first. Other sectors, like agriculture and textiles, will follow suit at a later date. The registry will collect information on plastics placed on the market, plastics collected for diversion, reuse, remanufacturing, repair, recycling, and recovery for energy. This comprehensive approach will enable a better understanding of the entire lifecycle of plastics and help identify areas for improvement.

Plastics have become a major pollution problem, with microplastics found throughout the ocean, affecting animals, water chemistry, and human health. The episode highlights that plastic pollution has reached a critical level, with plastics being present in every part of the ocean. This is concerning because the ocean covers over 70% of the planet, and the presence of plastics is negatively impacting marine life and ecosystems.

Plastics are lightweight and cheap to ship, which has led to their widespread use by companies and brands. However, the episode emphasizes that the health implications of plastics are not favorable. Plastics can leach harmful chemicals into drinks and food when they are ingested, posing risks to human health. Additionally, the decomposition of plastics in landfills releases gases and chemicals into the atmosphere, contributing to environmental pollution.

The episode also highlights the issues with plastic recycling. While people are encouraged to recycle plastics, it is revealed that plastic water bottles, for example, can only be recycled once or twice before they break down and cannot be effectively recycled anymore. This has led to a recycling problem, with a majority of plastic waste ending up in landfills, incinerators, or directly in the natural environment.

To address the plastic pollution crisis, the Canadian federal government has taken steps to regulate plastics and decrease plastic pollution. They have implemented a ban on certain single-use plastics and are working towards a circular economy for plastics. The government is also in the process of developing a federal plastics registry, which will require companies to track and report their plastic production. This registry aims to make companies accountable for their plastic waste and encourage proper disposal and recycling practices.

The episode emphasizes the importance of the federal plastics registry in tracking the lifecycle of plastics and understanding where they end up after use. By making this information publicly accessible, Canadians and businesses can be informed about the environmental consequences of different types of plastics and put pressure on companies to be more responsible for their plastic waste. The registry is seen as a crucial tool in improving regulations and reducing plastic pollution.

Overall, the episode highlights the urgent need to address plastic pollution and the importance of tracking and regulating plastic production and usage. The establishment of a federal plastics registry in Canada is a significant step towards achieving these goals. By gathering comprehensive data on plastic production and monitoring its lifecycle, the government can implement more effective policies and regulations to reduce plastic pollution and move towards a circular economy for plastics.

Andrew Lewin shares his goals and plans for 2024. He discusses his mindset shift towards engagement rather than growth, and his plans to increase his reach through YouTube.

Andrew also mentions his intention to create video podcasts under a new name, Ocean Talk, and to produce more original content on various digital platforms. He also mentions his efforts to secure sponsors for the podcast and addresses the potential introduction of ads. Overall, Andrew emphasizes his passion for ocean conservation and his commitment to spreading the message and engaging with his audience.

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The host of the podcast, Andrew Lewin, is dedicated to spreading information on ocean conservation and science as part of his professional goals for 2024. He is passionate about raising awareness about the importance of protecting the ocean and is committed to making a difference. While acknowledging that podcasting requires significant time and effort, Andrew has found it to be his preferred medium for sharing his message. Having previously been involved in content creation through blogging and YouTube videos, he has seen growth and engagement with his audience, valuing the conversations and feedback he receives.

Andrew emphasizes that his focus is not on becoming the biggest podcast or gaining a massive following, but rather on engaging with his community and spreading the message of ocean conservation. To achieve this, he plans to participate more actively in his Facebook group, engage with others on social media platforms, and attend conferences to cover and share information. Additionally, Andrew intends to expand his reach by utilizing YouTube as a platform for his audio podcast, creating a separate video podcast series, and increasing his presence on YouTube and YouTube Music to reach a wider audience.

In addition to these efforts, Andrew plans to incorporate storytelling into his content creation, including the production of video documentaries and the creation of original content on various digital platforms. He also mentions his intention to incorporate sponsors and ads into his podcast episodes to support the cost of his hobby and potentially turn it into a full-time endeavor. However, he assures listeners that he will strive to provide valuable and beneficial products or services through these sponsorships.

Overall, Andrew's professional goals for 2024 revolve around spreading the message of ocean conservation, engaging with his community, expanding his reach, and creating meaningful content. He aims to achieve these goals through active participation in his Facebook group, increased engagement on social media platforms, the utilization of YouTube for both audio and video content, storytelling through documentaries and original content, and the incorporation of sponsors and ads to support his podcast.

Andrew discusses a concerning incident that occurred in Waikiki, Hawaii.

A humpback whale calf was separated from its mother and began beaching itself, putting its life at risk. While many people tried to alert the authorities, one woman made the unethical and illegal decision to ride the whale.

Andrew emphasizes the dangers and ignorance of such actions, as well as the importance of knowing how to respond when encountering distressed wildlife. He shares a personal story of finding a sea turtle nest and taking the appropriate steps to protect it.

Andrew urges listeners to be respectful guests in the ocean and not to touch or disturb marine wildlife. He concludes by wishing everyone a happy new year and teasing upcoming episodes of the podcast.

Link to article: https://www.newsweek.com/woman-mounts-distressed-baby-whale-beaching-1856383

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In the podcast episode, the host discusses the importance of knowing how to handle encounters with distressed animals, particularly whales. The episode focuses on a specific incident at Waikiki Beach in Hawaii, where a humpback whale calf became separated from its mother and was at risk of beaching itself. Numerous individuals witnessed the distressed whale and promptly alerted the authorities, taking action to potentially save its life.

The host emphasizes the crucial role of notifying the appropriate authorities when coming across an animal in distress. In this case, people promptly contacted the police, informed lifeguards, and notified nearby hotels about the situation. By taking these actions, they ensured that the necessary intervention was carried out to assist the whale.

Furthermore, the podcast episode highlights the illegal and unethical nature of riding a distressed humpback whale calf. The host stresses the dangers associated with such behavior, both for the person involved and the whale itself. Instances of individuals losing their lives while attempting to rescue entangled whales are mentioned, as they became entangled themselves and were unable to resurface for air. The host underscores the immense size and weight of humpback whales, emphasizing the potential for injury or harm to anyone attempting to ride them. Additionally, the host mentions the Marine Mammal Protection Act, which prohibits such interactions with marine mammals.

In the podcast episode, the host also underscores the significance of being a responsible guest in the ocean and refraining from touching or harassing wildlife. Personal experiences and stories are shared to further emphasize the importance of this message.

The host begins by recounting a disturbing incident in Hawaii where a woman chose to ride a distressed humpback whale calf. Expressing disbelief, the host strongly condemns this behavior as both illegal and ethically wrong. The dangers of interacting with marine mammals are explained, citing cases where individuals have tragically lost their lives while attempting to save entangled whales. Respecting the natural behavior and space of marine animals is emphasized, as they are powerful and potentially dangerous creatures.

Additionally, the host shares a personal experience of encountering a sea turtle, highlighting the need to observe and appreciate wildlife without interfering or causing harm.

Andrew Lewin discusses a company called Fallow that supports various conservation organizations through the sale of bracelets. By purchasing a bracelet, individuals can support the tracking and conservation efforts of animals such as sharks, polar bears, penguins, sea turtles, and more. Andrew shares his personal experience of receiving a shark bracelet as a gift and highlights the importance of tracking studies in understanding and protecting marine species. He also explores the potential of this sales model in supporting conservation efforts and invites listeners to share their thoughts on the topic.

To learn more about Fahlo and their bracelets, visit myfahlo.com.

Follow a career in conservation: https://www.conservation-careers.com/online-training/ Use the code SUFB to get 33% off courses and the careers program. Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3NmYvsI

Connect with Speak Up For Blue: Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc

The company Fallow is dedicated to supporting conservation organizations through the sale of bracelets. When customers purchase a bracelet, a portion of the proceeds is donated to these organizations. Fallow has established partnerships with renowned organizations like the Sea Turtle Conservancy, Polar Bears International, Saving the Blue, Global Penguin Society, and the Marine Conservation Lab at Florida International University, among others. Each bracelet is uniquely designed to represent a specific animal, allowing customers to choose which animal they would like to support. These bracelets not only serve as a means of contribution but also as a symbol of support.

Fallow's bracelets offer buyers the opportunity to actively support the conservation efforts of real animals. Each bracelet is associated with a particular animal, such as a shark, polar bear, penguin, sea turtle, lion, giraffe, elephant, or gorilla. By purchasing the corresponding bracelet, buyers can directly contribute to the conservation of their chosen animal. These bracelets not only symbolize support but also provide information on the animal's journey and ongoing conservation efforts.

Supporting conservation organizations through purchases like these allows individuals to make a meaningful contribution, even if they are unable to donate large sums of money. In a podcast episode, Fallow is highlighted as a company that supports various conservation organizations through the sale of bracelets. Each bracelet represents a different animal, and the proceeds from sales are dedicated to the conservation work and tracking of these animals. By purchasing a bracelet for $25, individuals can actively contribute to the conservation of species such as sharks, polar bears, penguins, and sea turtles.