Governments worldwide are failing to keep up with the urgent need for ocean conservation policies. From climate change to overfishing and plastic pollution, we see the effects of delayed action everywhere. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, we break down why policies are lagging, the challenges of government decision-making, and how we can push for transformative change.

We’ll discuss:

✅ Why policy language is confusing and how to decode it

✅ The importance of science-driven decision-making

✅ How biodiversity, climate change, and pollution are interconnected

✅ The role of nature-based solutions and urban green spaces

✅ Why supporting Indigenous knowledge is key to sustainable policies

We need to demand that our governments listen to experts and act NOW before it’s too late. Watch until the end to learn how YOU can take action!

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This bait ball in Australia surprised beachgoers at Manly Beach last week as three separate bait balls combined to form one huge ball. The bait ball is a natural process that fish use to help protect themselves against predators such as sharks, tuna, swordfish, marine mammals, and seabirds. If this was a natural process, then why were beachgoers asked to get out of the water?

Summary

In this episode of the "How to Protect the Ocean" podcast, host Andrew Lewin discusses a fascinating natural phenomenon that occurred at Manly Beach in Australia: the formation of a large bait ball. A bait ball is created when schools of fish come together in a tight formation to protect themselves from predators. This behavior is a survival strategy, as being part of a larger group reduces individual vulnerability to attacks.

The episode highlights the rare occurrence of this bait ball close to shore, which prompted lifeguards to evacuate swimmers for safety. Lewin explains that while bait balls are often seen in the open ocean, their presence in shallow waters can attract various predators, making it crucial for beachgoers to stay out of the water during such events.

The podcast also touches on the excitement generated by drone footage capturing the bait ball, likening it to scenes from nature documentaries. This event not only showcases the dynamic interactions within marine ecosystems but also emphasizes the importance of understanding these natural behaviors for ocean conservation. Overall, the episode serves as a reminder of the intricate relationships in the ocean and the need for awareness and protection of marine life.

Link to article: Link to article: https://au.news.yahoo.com/swimmers-ordered-out-of-water-as-rarely-seen-natural-event-swamps-aussie-beach-030212036.html

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Deep sea mining: what happened in 2024? You need to know about the industry activity that occurred in 2024. The was a leadership change in the International Seabed Authority (ISA), Norway was going to explore deep sea mining, but didn't, and why my guest, Dr. Andrew Thaler won't sign on to approved deep sea mining as it is written.

In the podcast episode, host Andrew Lewin and Dr. Andrew Thaler discuss significant developments in the deep sea mining industry throughout 2024. Here are the key activities and events highlighted:

• Norway's Exploration Plans: At the beginning of 2024, Norway announced plans to issue exploration permits for deep sea mining of inactive hydrothermal vents in its national waters. This decision surprised many, given Norway's strong environmental stance. However, by December 2024, due to political negotiations and pressure from smaller parties in parliament, Norway scrapped these plans.
• International Seabed Authority (ISA) Leadership Change: A major shift occurred with the election of Letitia Carvalho as the new Secretary General of the ISA, replacing Michael Lodge, who had been pro-mining. Carvalho, an oceanographer and former UNEP official, is expected to bring a more science-based and environmentally conscious approach to the ISA's negotiations and policies regarding deep sea mining.
• Ongoing Negotiations: The ISA has been working on a unitary mining code that covers all types of deep sea mining, including polymetallic nodule mining, hydrothermal vent mining, and seamount mining. Dr. Thaler expressed concerns that this approach could allow the worst forms of mining to proceed alongside potentially less harmful practices.
• Environmental Concerns: The episode emphasizes the environmental implications of deep sea mining, particularly the irreversible damage that could result from mining hydrothermal vents, which are unique ecosystems. The discussion also touches on the potential for new research, such as the "dark oxygen" study, which suggests that polymetallic nodules may play a role in oxygen production in deep sea environments.
• Geopolitical Factors: The episode highlights the geopolitical motivations behind deep sea mining, particularly for countries like the U.S., which is looking to secure access to critical minerals amid tensions with China. This has led to discussions about refining polymetallic nodules in the U.S. to enhance resource independence.
• Technological Advancements: Dr. Thaler notes that advancements in battery technology, such as solid-state and sodium batteries, may reduce the demand for metals sourced from deep sea mining, potentially impacting the industry's future viability.

Overall, 2024 was a tumultuous year for deep sea mining, marked by significant political shifts, ongoing debates about environmental impacts, and evolving technological landscapes.

Helpful Links: 1) Southern Fried Science: https://www.southernfriedscience.com/deep-sea-mining-what-went-down-in-2024/  2) Deep Sea Mining Leadership Change: https://youtu.be/cq7VaQDk_Wc 3) Dark Oxygen in the Deep Sea: https://youtu.be/Sc3gu3gHHOY

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In this episode of the "How to Protect the Ocean" podcast, host Andrew Lewin discusses the significant executive actions Donald Trump took on his first day in office that will impact ocean policies. The episode highlights several key policies that were revoked or altered, which pose threats to the ocean environment:

1. Revocation of Biden's Executive Orders: Trump rescinded multiple executive orders from the Biden administration to protect public health and the environment and address the climate crisis. This included orders that directed federal agencies to confront climate change and protect marine ecosystems.

2. Removal of Offshore Exploration Protections: Trump’s actions included the removal of protections against offshore oil and natural gas exploration on the outer continental shelf. This could lead to increased drilling activities, which are detrimental to marine environments.

3. National Energy Emergency Declaration: Trump declared a national energy emergency, which expedited the review and permitting processes for new oil and gas production. This declaration is seen as favoring fossil fuels over renewable energy sources, despite the latter being more cost-effective and environmentally friendly.

4. Halting Offshore Wind Projects: In a contradictory move, Trump issued a temporary withdrawal of all areas on the outer continental shelf from offshore wind leasing. This decision undermines the development of renewable energy sources that could help mitigate climate change.

5. Dismantling of the Civil Service: The reinstatement of Schedule F allows for the conversion of career civil servants into political appointees, which could weaken the scientific integrity and effectiveness of agencies like NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) and BOEM (Bureau of Ocean Energy Management).

6. Withdrawal from the Paris Climate Accord: Trump’s decision to pull out of the Paris Agreement removes the U.S. from international climate negotiations, limiting its ability to influence global climate policy and potentially exacerbating ocean-related issues.

The episode emphasizes the importance of public engagement and advocacy to counter these policies, urging listeners to contact their representatives to express support for ocean protection initiatives.

Link to article: https://www.southernfriedscience.com/how-donald-trumps-day-1-executive-actions-impact-the-ocean/ 

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Solar panels on boats are the future of boating not because it's good for the environment (that is just a bonus), but because the engines are quiet and there is no smell.

Host Andrew Lewin interviews Simon Angus, the CEO of Open Water Solar, a company specializing in flexible and durable solar panels designed for boats. The discussion highlights the importance of transitioning to electric power sources in the marine industry to reduce noise pollution and environmental impact.

Key Points:

• The Problem with Traditional Power Sources: Simon shares his experiences as a sailor and engineer, emphasizing the drawbacks of conventional diesel engines, including noise and pollution, which disrupt marine life, particularly whales.

• Innovative Solar Solutions: Open Water Solar has developed solar panels that are lightweight, flexible, and designed to fit the contours of various boats. These panels aim to maximize real estate utilization on boats, addressing common issues with traditional solar panels, such as micro-cracking and shading.

• Performance and Efficiency: The solar panels can generate sufficient power to run essential systems on boats, allowing for extended trips without the need to plug into shore power. Simon mentions a case study where a boat circumnavigated Vancouver Island without needing to plug in, relying solely on solar energy.

• Customization and Versatility: The company offers custom solutions for existing boats, allowing boat owners to retrofit their vessels with solar panels tailored to their specific needs. This adaptability is crucial for maximizing energy generation.

• Future of Marine Electrification: The episode discusses the growing trend towards hybrid boats that combine diesel and electric power. Simon believes that as the industry moves towards electrification, solar panels will become a necessity rather than a luxury.

• Global Reach: Open Water Solar is already shipping panels internationally, indicating a strong demand for sustainable marine energy solutions.

Overall, the episode underscores the potential of solar technology to transform the boating industry, making it more sustainable and environmentally friendly while enhancing the experience of being on the water.

Website: https://openwaterssolar.com/

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No, offshore wind does not cause whale strandings as stated by NOAA, the Marine Mammal Commission, and other government agencies. The rumor was started and perpetuated by the current president of the United States, Donald Trump; Fox News; fossil fuel-funded non-profit organizations; and the fishing communities along the East Coast as renewable energy threatens the fossil fuel industry.

In this episode of the "How to Protect the Ocean" podcast, host Andrew Lewin addresses the concerns surrounding whale strandings along the East Coast of the U.S. and the claims that the offshore wind industry is to blame. Over the past few years, there has been an increase in whale strandings, leading various groups—including politicians, nonprofit organizations, and media outlets—to suggest a link to offshore wind farms.

However, Lewin emphasizes that extensive research conducted by NOAA and other academic institutions has found no evidence connecting the offshore wind industry to these strandings. The Marine Mammal Commission, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, and NOAA Fisheries support this conclusion, stating that the primary human threats to large whales are vessel strikes and entanglement in fishing gear, not offshore wind.

Lewin points out that the narrative blaming offshore wind is perpetuated by those with vested interests, such as the fossil fuel industry and fishing communities, who may feel threatened by the growth of renewable energy sources. He stresses the importance of relying on scientific evidence rather than misinformation spread through social media and certain media outlets.

The episode reinforces that there is no scientific basis for the claims linking offshore wind to whale strandings, and it highlights the need to focus on the real threats to whale populations, such as vessel strikes and fishing gear entanglement.

Link to Article: https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/whales-are-dying-but-not-from-offshore-wind/

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In this episode of the How to Protect the Ocean podcast, host Angelo interviews Mark Zacharias, the Executive Director of Clean Energy Canada. The discussion centers around a rebuttal to an article published by the Fraser Institute, which claimed that renewable energy is going to be significantly more expensive than anticipated.

Mark Zacharias addresses three main arguments presented in the Fraser Institute article:

1. Renewable Energy Costs: The article suggests that renewable energy drives up costs and is intermittent, making electricity grids less reliable. Mark counters this by highlighting examples from jurisdictions like South Australia and Iowa, where the transition to renewable energy has led to lower electricity costs. He notes that in Alberta, recent renewable energy procurements have resulted in power bids as low as $0.05 per kilowatt hour, significantly cheaper than the retail electricity rates.

2. Impact of Climate Policies on the Grid: The article argues that climate policies, such as EV sales mandates and natural gas bans, will overwhelm the electricity grid. Mark refutes this by explaining that EVs have a minimal impact on grid demand and can even contribute to grid stability through vehicle-to-grid technologies. He also emphasizes the efficiency of heat pumps compared to traditional heating methods, which can lead to overall energy savings.

3. Electricity Imports and Structural Deficits: The article claims that Canada’s reliance on electricity imports indicates a structural deficit. Mark clarifies that while British Columbia has imported power during droughts, this practice allows for strategic management of resources and has resulted in significant profits from power trading. He argues that imports can be beneficial and do not signify a failure of the grid.

Throughout the conversation, Mark emphasizes the importance of updated information and the need to move beyond outdated narratives about renewable energy. He advocates for a future where clean energy is not only viable but also economically advantageous, countering the misconceptions perpetuated by the Fraser Institute's article.

Clean Energy Canada: https://cleanenergycanada.org/

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Sparkling water without plastic bottles is not only good for your health (plastic bottles can cause health problems).

In this episode of the "How to Protect the Ocean" podcast, host Andrew Lewin interviews Marcus O'Donovan, the founder of CO2U, a company that provides carbon dioxide cylinders for home sparkling water machines. The discussion centers around the intersection of entrepreneurship and sustainability, highlighting how CO2U addresses environmental concerns while offering a convenient product.

Key Points on Sustainability:

Convenience Over Single-Use Plastics: CO2U allows consumers to create sparkling water at home using tap water, significantly reducing the reliance on single-use plastic bottles. This shift not only minimizes plastic waste but also eliminates the carbon footprint associated with transporting bottled water.

Sustainable Business Model: The business model focuses on delivering CO2 cylinders directly to customers' homes and collecting empty ones, promoting a circular economy. This approach contrasts with traditional methods where consumers must return cylinders to collection points, making it more user-friendly and sustainable.

Innovative Solutions: Marcus discusses the introduction of a new aluminum refillable cylinder to replace disposable steel cylinders used in many sparkling water taps. This innovation aims to further reduce waste and enhance sustainability in the industry.

Authenticity in Sustainability: The episode emphasizes the importance of genuine sustainability efforts over greenwashing. Marcus expresses a desire to focus on authentic practices that truly benefit the environment, rather than just marketing claims.

Growth and Impact: Since its inception, CO2U has experienced significant growth, with a 500% increase in the second year. The company is expanding its reach across Europe, demonstrating that sustainable business practices can also be profitable.

Overall, the episode illustrates how CO2U not only meets consumer demand for sparkling water but also contributes positively to environmental sustainability by reducing plastic waste and promoting the use of tap water.

CO2YOU website: https://co2you.com/

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In this episode of the How to Protect the Ocean podcast, host Andrew Lewin discusses the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles, emphasizing the significant role climate change plays in their occurrence and intensity.

Lewin highlights that the wildfires are exacerbated by a phenomenon known as "hydroclimate whiplash," where California experiences extreme fluctuations between wet and dry conditions. In 2023, the state saw record precipitation and lush vegetation growth, but by 2024, drought conditions led to that vegetation drying out, creating ample fuel for wildfires. The situation was further intensified by the Santa Ana winds, which reached speeds of up to 90 miles per hour, allowing fires to spread rapidly and uncontrollably.

The episode underscores that these abrupt climate variations, intensified by global climate change, contribute to the increasing frequency and severity of wildfires. Lewin stresses that ignoring the science behind climate change and the resulting environmental conditions will only lead to more disasters, as seen in both California and Hawaii. He calls for urgent action and the election of decision-makers who acknowledge and are willing to address climate change effectively.

Overall, the episode serves as a somber reminder of the real and devastating impacts of climate change on communities, urging listeners to recognize the urgency of the situation and take action.

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Environmental protections before the next president could be sworn in were implemented to help save 625 million acres of ocean from oil and gas exploration.

In this episode of the "How to Protect the Ocean" podcast, host Andrew Lewin discusses recent developments regarding the Gulf of Mexico and new protections for marine environments in the U.S.

Gulf of Mexico Name Change Proposal

The episode begins with a focus on Donald Trump's controversial proposal to rename the Gulf of Mexico to the "Gulf of America." Lewin explains that such a unilateral change is not feasible due to historical, cultural, and diplomatic considerations. The name "Gulf of Mexico" has been recognized internationally for centuries and reflects the region's shared history with Mexico and Cuba. Any attempt to rename it would require significant international consensus, which is unlikely given current diplomatic tensions. Lewin emphasizes that the U.S. cannot simply impose a new name on an internationally recognized body of water.

New Protections for Oceans

The podcast then shifts to President Joe Biden's recent actions aimed at protecting marine ecosystems. Biden has banned offshore drilling and gas drilling across 65 million acres of federal waters, including sensitive areas in the Atlantic, Arctic, Pacific Oceans, and the eastern Gulf of Mexico. This decision was made through an executive order invoking the 1953 Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act, which grants the president broad authority to withdraw federal waters from future oil and gas leasing.

Lewin notes that while Biden's ban can be reversed by a future administration, it would require congressional approval, making it more challenging for Trump to undo the protections unilaterally. The episode highlights that the economic impact of this ban may be minimal in the short term, as existing offshore rigs continue to operate and new projects take years to develop.

Overall, the episode underscores the complexities surrounding the Gulf of Mexico's name and the importance of Biden's new protections for marine environments. Lewin invites listeners to share their thoughts on these developments and the future of ocean conservation.

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