How To Protect The Ocean

How do we stop over fishing? Fishing transparency is a great start. Many fisheries around the world lack the data to provide managers with the information to make better management decisions. The Coalition of Fisheries Transparency aims to work with their partners to help gain more information on each fishery. Maisie Pigeon, the Director for the Coalition, koins Andrew Lewin to discuss how transparency is made possible for fisheries.

In this episode of the "How to Protect the Ocean" podcast, host Andrew Lewin discusses fishing transparency with Maisie Pidgeon, the director of the Coalition for Fisheries Transparency. The conversation highlights the significant challenges posed by illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, which contributes to overfishing, fisheries mismanagement, and human rights abuses in the fishing sector.

1. Lack of Transparency: The absence of transparency measures in fisheries management leads to various problems, including overfishing and exploitation of fish stocks. Many countries struggle to manage their fisheries effectively due to insufficient data on fish populations and fishing activities.

2. Complex Stakeholder Dynamics: The fishing industry involves multiple stakeholders, including governments, the fishing industry, scientists, and conservationists. The interplay between these groups can complicate decision-making and hinder effective management.

3. The Role of the Coalition for Fisheries Transparency: The Coalition is a global network of civil society organizations advancing fisheries transparency measures. Their goal is to ensure the sustainability and equity of the fisheries sector by promoting better data sharing and management practices.

4. Benefits of Transparency: Implementing transparency measures can lead to informed decision-making, increased accountability, and improved governance in fisheries. This, in turn, can help combat IUU fishing and promote sustainable practices that protect fish stocks for future generations.

5. Global Charter for Fisheries Transparency: The Coalition operates under the Global Charter, which outlines ten policy principles to enhance fisheries transparency. These principles include requiring unique identification numbers for fishing vessels, publishing lists of licenses, and ensuring public access to fisheries data.

6. Collaborative Efforts: The Coalition works with various countries and organizations to implement transparency measures. By fostering collaboration and sharing best practices, they aim to create a global community focused on improving fisheries management.

7. Future Goals: The Coalition plans to expand its reach and influence, particularly in regions lacking fisheries management. They aim to raise awareness about the importance of transparency at international forums, such as the upcoming Our Ocean conference.

The episode emphasizes that enhancing fishing transparency is a vital step in addressing overfishing and ensuring the long-term sustainability of fish populations. By improving data collection, sharing information, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders, the Coalition for Fisheries Transparency aims to create a more equitable and sustainable fishing industry worldwide.

Connect with the Coalition for Fisheries Transparency: https://fisheriestransparency.net/

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The largest solar farm on the ocean is now running off the coast of China as the country continues to invest in ways to support its sustainable energy needs.

In the "How to Protect the Ocean" podcast, host Andrew Lewin discusses China's deployment of the world's largest open sea offshore solar panel farm. The project, developed by CHN Energy, spans 1,223 hectares (3,023 acres) and is located 8 kilometers off the coast of China. It aims to generate one gigawatt of renewable energy and is notable for its innovative use of offshore solar technology.

1. Efficient Land Use: Utilizing water bodies for solar energy reduces the need for land clearing and habitat destruction typically associated with land-based solar farms.

2. Reduced Evaporation: The solar panels cover the water surface, which can help conserve water by reducing evaporation rates in reservoirs and agricultural areas.

3. Improved Solar Efficiency: The cooling effect of water can enhance the efficiency of solar panels compared to those installed on land.

4. Dual Use Potential: Floating solar farms can coexist with hydroelectric facilities, optimizing energy production and utilizing existing infrastructure.

5. Algal Bloom Reduction: The solar panels can help suppress harmful algal blooms in aquatic systems by limiting sunlight penetration.

6. Clean Energy Generation: The project contributes to renewable energy production, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and reliance on fossil fuels.

1. Impact on Aquatic Systems: The shade from solar panels may alter water temperature and light penetration, potentially disrupting habitats for aquatic plants and animals.

2. Habitat Disruption: The solar farm installation could affect fish spawning areas and migratory patterns, similar to concerns raised about wind farms.

3. Material Degradation: Using plastics and metals in solar structures could lead to microplastic contamination and chemical pollution over time.

4. Recreational Disruption: Floating solar farms may hinder recreational activities, fishing, and navigation in the area.

5. Installation Risks: The anchoring and cabling required for the solar systems could disturb sediments and harm local aquatic habitats.

6. Vulnerability to Weather Events: The structures may be susceptible to damage from storms, hurricanes, and flooding, potentially releasing debris or pollutants into the water.

The episode emphasizes the need for careful planning and mitigation strategies to address the potential environmental concerns associated with floating solar farms. While the project presents a promising opportunity for renewable energy generation, it also raises important questions about the ecological impacts on marine environments. The host encourages listeners to engage in the conversation about the balance between renewable energy development and ocean conservation.

Link to article: https://electrek.co/2024/11/14/china-worlds-largest-open-sea-offshore-solar-farm/

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The impact of the avian flu of elephant seals resulted in the death of 17,000 individuals in a population in Argentina. Researchers think the marine mammals caught the virus from migrating birds near their haul out areas that are usually packed with the animals one on top of the other. Unfortunately, 97% of the elephant seal pups were lost resulting in a devastating loss for generations to come.

In this episode of the "How to Protect the Ocean" podcast, host Andrew Lewin discusses the devastating impact of the H5N1 avian flu on the elephant seal population off the coast of Argentina. Over 17,000 elephant seals died last year due to the outbreak, with approximately 97% of the pups affected. This significant loss poses a serious threat to the population's future, as elephant seals are a slow-growing species that take time to reach sexual maturity and reproduce.

The episode highlights how the H5N1 virus has adapted to marine mammals, allowing it to spread efficiently and evolve into distinct strains. The decline in the seal population and the loss of genetic diversity could make them more susceptible to future outbreaks and environmental stressors. The host emphasizes the importance of ongoing research, monitoring, and conservation efforts to mitigate risks and support the recovery of the elephant seal population.

Lewin expresses concern over the emotional toll of witnessing such a high mortality rate among the pups, which are crucial for the colony's future. He calls for increased funding and prioritization of conservation efforts to ensure the survival of this vulnerable species. The episode concludes with a commitment to follow the story and seek ways to help the elephant seals as a community.

Link to article: https://newsroom.wcs.org/News-Releases/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/23766/Elephant-Seal-Colony-Declines-One-Year-After-Avian-Flu-Outbreak.aspx

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A new marine protected area has been designated in Puerto Rico to bring their total ocean protection up to 27%, 3% away from the 30 x 30 promise many countries have promised to meet. The US has a total of 26% of its ocean in marine protected areas.

In this episode of the "How to Protect the Ocean" podcast, host Andrew Lewin discusses establishing a new marine protected area (MPA) in Puerto Rico, which has increased the total protected area in their territorial waters to 27%. This new MPA, named Vega Baja and Manatee Underwater Gardens, spans 202 square kilometers (77 square miles) off the central north coast of Puerto Rico and encompasses vital ecosystems such as coral reefs, mangrove forests, and seagrass beds.

The designation of this MPA results from a 16-year effort led by local communities and NGOs, highlighting the importance of community involvement in conservation efforts. The local fishing community and ecotourism stakeholders played a crucial role in advocating for the protection of this area, recognizing its significance for sustainable fishing and tourism.

Lewin emphasizes that the success of the MPA relies on a co-management plan that balances human activities with ecological preservation. This approach involves local knowledge and traditional practices, ensuring that the management decisions reflect the needs and insights of those who rely on marine resources.

The episode underscores the importance of protecting these ecosystems not only for biodiversity but also for the economic well-being of the local community. By establishing this MPA, Puerto Rico is making strides toward the global goal of protecting 30% of land and water by 2030, showcasing a model for community-led conservation efforts. Lewin invites listeners, especially those from Puerto Rico, to share their thoughts and experiences regarding this significant development in marine conservation.

Link to article: https://news.mongabay.com/short-article/local-groups-drive-creation-of-new-puerto-rico-marine-protected-area/

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In this episode of the How to Protect the Ocean podcast, host Andrew Lewin discusses practical ways for individuals to reduce their carbon footprint. Here are the key strategies highlighted:

Calculate Your Carbon Footprint: Start by determining your current carbon footprint using a reliable calculator. Understanding your baseline is essential for tracking progress.

Food Choices:

• Opt for Plant-Based Diets: Shift from meat, especially beef, to more plant-based proteins. This can significantly reduce your food-related carbon emissions by 50-80%.
• Buy Local: Purchase food from local farmers or farmers' markets to minimize the carbon footprint associated with transportation and mass production. Local farm food is generally more sustainable than imported or factory-farmed options.

Clothing Purchases:

• Avoid Fast Fashion: Steer clear of fast fashion brands that use synthetic fibers. Instead, consider investing in higher-quality, sustainable clothing made from natural materials like wool.
• Thrift Shopping: Buy second-hand clothes from thrift shops to reduce waste and avoid contributing to the fast fashion cycle.

Sustainable Business Practices:

If you are in a position to influence workplace policies, advocate for sustainable practices. This can include forming employee-led sustainability committees to promote eco-friendly initiatives.

Implement energy-efficient solutions, such as replacing incandescent light bulbs with energy-efficient alternatives, which can drastically reduce power consumption.

By following these steps, individuals can not only lower their carbon footprint but also contribute to a more sustainable future. Andrew encourages listeners to share their experiences and progress in reducing their carbon footprint.

Link to article: https://www.forbes.com/sites/leighcuen/2024/11/10/how-to-reduce-your-carbon-footprint/

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In this episode of the "How to Protect the Ocean" podcast, host Andrew Lewin discusses the pressing issue of plastic pollution and highlights a promising biological solution involving African mealworms.

The episode focuses on the Kenyan lesser mealworm, a larval form of the Alphitobius darkling beetle, which has shown the ability to break down polystyrene, commonly known as styrofoam. This capability is attributed to the unique microbes and bacteria in the mealworms' gut. Researchers are studying these gut bacteria to identify specific communities that facilitate the degradation of plastic materials.

Key findings from the research indicate that the mealworms can effectively digest polystyrene when provided with a nutrient-rich diet, such as bran, alongside the styrofoam. This balanced diet appears to enhance the production of the necessary bacteria and enzymes to break down plastic. The study revealed significant shifts in bacterial composition based on the mealworms' diet, suggesting that the gut microbiome adapts to optimize plastic degradation.

The episode emphasizes the potential of harnessing these naturally occurring bacteria and enzymes for large-scale applications in plastic waste management, particularly in regions like Africa, where plastic waste poses significant environmental challenges. By isolating and utilizing these microbial communities, there is hope for developing innovative methods to biologically process plastic waste, reducing reliance on harmful chemical recycling methods.

The podcast presents a hopeful perspective on using biological solutions, like the African mealworm, to combat plastic pollution and promote environmental conservation.

Link to article: https://theconversation.com/plastic-eating-insect-discovered-in-kenya-242787

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In this episode of the "How to Protect the Ocean" podcast, host Andrew Lewin discusses the significant return of the Southern Resident orca population, specifically L-Pod, to Penn Cove, Washington, after more than 50 years. This return is particularly poignant given the tragic history of the area, where in the 1970s, a brutal capture event took place. During this event, 80 orcas were corralled using bombs and boats, resulting in the deaths of five orcas and the capture of many others, including Tokite, also known as Lolita, who spent 50 years in captivity before passing away in 2023.

The emotional response from the local community and researchers upon witnessing the orcas return to Penn Cove was captured in videos, marking a full-circle moment for a population that has faced significant trauma. While the reasons for their return remain unclear—whether it was due to food availability or exploration—the event symbolizes hope for the future of the critically endangered Southern Resident orcas, whose numbers have dwindled from around 150 individuals to just 71-73 today.

Lewin emphasizes the importance of protecting the orcas' habitat and food sources, particularly their preferred prey, salmon, which has been declining due to various environmental factors. The episode highlights the resilience of these intelligent creatures and the joy of their return, serving as a reminder of the ongoing efforts needed to ensure their survival and recovery.

Link to article: https://www.greenmatters.com/news/penn-cove-orca-capture

U of Washington and Orcas: https://marinebiology.uw.edu/2022/10/13/from-detection-to-protection-orca-research-and-conservation/

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Are you sick of hearing about plastic straws? Andrew Santino, a comedian, doesn't think that plastic straws are hurting sea turtles even though a video went viral for a scientist pulling a plastic straw from a sea turtle's nose in Costa Rica. Four months later, the same scientist pulled a plastic fork from a sea turtle's nose about 70 kilometres from the original site.

In this episode of the "How to Protect the Ocean" podcast, host Andrew Lewin discusses the influence of comedy on public perception, particularly regarding the anti-single-use plastic movement. He begins by referencing a stand-up bit by comedian Andrew Santino, who humorously questions the narrative surrounding plastic straws and their impact on sea turtles. Santino's comedic approach raises concerns for Lewin, who worries that audiences may take such jokes seriously and dismiss the real issues of plastic pollution.

Lewin emphasizes that while comedy can be entertaining, it can also perpetuate misinformation. He highlights the viral incident of a sea turtle with a plastic straw lodged in its nose, which became a symbol for the dangers of single-use plastics. Despite the comedic dismissal of such incidents, Lewin argues that they are significant and represent a larger problem of plastic pollution affecting marine life.

The episode underscores the power comedians hold in shaping public discourse. Lewin points out that many people rely on comedians for information, which can lead to misunderstandings about environmental issues. He expresses concern that jokes trivializing the impact of plastics may lead to apathy or skepticism about the anti-single-use plastic movement.

Ultimately, Lewin calls for a deeper understanding of the issue, urging listeners to recognize plastic straws as a gateway to the broader problem of plastic pollution. He invites feedback from the audience on their thoughts regarding the role of comedy in environmental advocacy, highlighting the need for accurate communication in the fight against plastic waste.

Video of Sea Turtle with Plastic Straw in its nose: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4wH878t78bw&t=401s

Video of Sea Turtle with Plastic Fork in its nose: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRiTABRQOjk&t=8s

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In this episode of the "How to Protect the Ocean" podcast, host Andrew Lewin interviews Dr. Ayla Hodgson, a marine social scientist and science communicator for the Save Our Seas Foundation. The focus of the conversation is on Isla's experience attending two significant conferences back-to-back: the International Marine Conservation Congress (IMCC) in Cape Town, South Africa, and the European Elasmobranch Society (EAS) conference in Greece.

• Purpose of Attendance: Isla attended IMCC to present her research on the management and governance of marine protected areas, as well as to connect with colleagues and project leaders funded by the Save Our Seas Foundation. The conference provided a platform for networking and collaboration.

• Presentation: Isla presented her research for the first time, which was nerve-wracking due to the high-profile audience. She described the experience as intense but rewarding, with valuable discussions following her presentation.

• Networking and Team Building: The conference allowed Isla to meet with over 30 colleagues from the Save Our Seas Foundation, fostering team spirit through activities like a foraging and freediving experience. She emphasized the importance of human dimensions in marine conservation discussions, particularly in the context of social justice and equity.

• Focus on Elasmobranchs: The EAS conference was smaller and specifically focused on sharks and rays in Europe. Isla's role was primarily to support the Save Our Seas Foundation and engage with project leaders.

• Panel Participation: Isla was invited to be part of a panel on science communication, discussing the importance of public engagement in marine conservation. This panel included diverse perspectives from various fields of science communication.

• Learning Opportunities: Unlike IMCC, where multiple sessions ran concurrently, EAS allowed attendees to stay in one room for all talks, providing a broader understanding of elasmobranch research and conservation efforts.

• Emotional and Physical Toll: Isla acknowledged the exhaustion that comes with attending back-to-back conferences but highlighted the uplifting and inspiring nature of these events. They reignited her passion for marine conservation and provided a sense of community among like-minded individuals.

• Advice for Future Attendees: Isla encouraged attendees to take breaks when needed and to seek out safe spaces for conversation, especially for those who may feel overwhelmed.

In summary, Isla's journey through these two conferences was marked by professional growth, networking opportunities, and a renewed sense of purpose in her work for marine conservation.

Connect with Isla: University of Stirling: https://www.stir.ac.uk/people/1458424

Save Our Seas: https://saveourseas.com/project-leader/isla-hodgson/

World of Sharks Podcast: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/world-of-sharks/id1578217405 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/464Xkx160AJUvaov7osKtY?si=4f9457e852084727

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Climate change misinformation has been a persistent issue for decades, fueled by campaigns funded by the fossil fuel industry. In this episode of the How to Protect the Ocean podcast, host Andrew Lewin discusses the ongoing struggle to raise awareness about climate change and the detrimental effects of misinformation on public perception and policy. He highlights a recent article from The Cool Down that reveals how organizations are financially supported to spread false narratives and apathy regarding climate change.

Andrew reflects on historical examples, such as the successful efforts to address the ozone layer and acid rain, contrasting them with the current challenges posed by climate change denial and misinformation. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing the role of influential figures and organizations, like the Koch brothers, in perpetuating these misleading narratives.

As the episode unfolds, Andrew calls for action against climate change misinformation and encourages listeners to be informed voters, especially in light of upcoming elections. He stresses the need for transparency in political funding and urges individuals to support candidates who prioritize environmental issues over corporate interests. Join Andrew as he navigates the complexities of climate change communication and advocates for a more informed and proactive approach to protecting our planet.

Link to article: https://www.thecooldown.com/green-business/climate-disinformation-donors-report-fossil-fuel-philanthropy/

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