How To Protect The Ocean

By Andrew LewinScience Nature

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Typical duration
17 min
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How To Protect The Ocean episodes

June 30 The Deep Sea Isn't Barren, Here's Why That Changes Everything
Most people picture the deep sea as a dark, empty place where almost nothing can survive. The truth is far more surprising. Thousands of meters below the surface lives an extraordinary world filled with ancient corals, giant sponges, glowing jellyfish, strange fish, and species that scientists are still discovering today.

In this episode, you'll learn how life has adapted to crushing pressure, freezing temperatures, and complete darkness. You'll also discover why deep-sea ecosystems are some of the most important habitats on Earth, supporting biodiversity, fisheries, and even helping us better understand how life itself can evolve under extreme conditions.

The more scientists explore the deep sea, the more they realize how much remains unknown. That mystery is exciting, but it also makes protecting these fragile ecosystems more important than ever. If you've ever wondered what really lives in the deepest parts of our ocean, this episode will change the way you think about the world beneath the waves.

Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon

Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca Connect with Speak Up For Blue Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube
8 min
June 29 We've Explored Space Better Than Our Own Ocean, How Is That Possible?
How can we know more about the Moon and Mars than the bottom of our own ocean? It sounds impossible, but it is true. In this episode, we begin a special series on deep ocean exploration by uncovering why so much of our planet remains a mystery and why that matters more than ever.

The deep ocean plays a critical role in regulating Earth's climate, supporting marine life, and helping sustain the ecosystems we depend on every day. Yet scientists have only explored a tiny fraction of it because of crushing pressure, complete darkness, and the enormous scale of the seafloor. You'll discover why exploring the deep sea is far more than an adventure; it is essential for making better decisions about conservation.

This episode sets the stage for an upcoming interview with experts from Oceans Network Canada and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada who are helping reveal Canada's hidden underwater world. Before we can protect the ocean, we first have to understand it. And that journey begins here.

Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon

Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca Connect with Speak Up For Blue Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube
8 min
June 26 What Happens to Ocean Science During a War?
What happens to marine conservation when a humanitarian crisis unfolds? In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, we explore the remarkable story of marine scientist Mohammed Abu Daya, whose work studying endangered giant devil rays has continued despite the immense challenges of living and working in Gaza. His story reminds us that conservation is ultimately about people as much as it is about wildlife.

You'll learn why giant devil rays are among the Mediterranean's most vulnerable species, why scientists still know so little about them, and how local research can shape global conservation efforts. We also look at the unique challenges facing marine ecosystems during times of conflict and why protecting biodiversity cannot simply be put on hold.

This episode is about resilience, science, and hope. It highlights the dedication of researchers who continue gathering critical information under extraordinary circumstances and shows why every piece of knowledge matters for protecting our ocean. Follow How to Protect the Ocean for your next weekday ocean news update.

Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon

Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca Connect with Speak Up For Blue Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube
11 min
June 25 The Return of Mangroves Should Give You Hope
For years, mangrove forests were seen as one of the world's fastest disappearing coastal ecosystems. Cleared for development, shrimp farming, and agriculture, these unique forests seemed locked in a steady decline. But a new global study tells a much more hopeful story. Researchers have found that mangroves are recovering in many parts of the world, offering one of the most encouraging conservation success stories in recent years.

In this episode, I break down why mangroves are so important for the health of our oceans and the people who depend on them. You'll learn how these coastal forests protect communities from storms, provide critical nursery habitat for fish, and store massive amounts of carbon that help fight climate change. We'll also explore why scientists believe nature can recover when we give it the opportunity.

Finally, we'll look at what this recovery means for the future. While the findings are encouraging, mangroves still face threats from coastal development, pollution, and climate change. This episode is a reminder that conservation works, restoration can succeed, and protecting coastal ecosystems remains one of the smartest investments we can make for both people and the planet.
13 min
June 24 Why This El Niño Matters More Than You Think
A potential super El Niño is developing in the Pacific Ocean, and scientists are warning that it could have major consequences for marine ecosystems around the world. While El Niño is a natural climate pattern, stronger events can dramatically alter ocean conditions by warming surface waters and reducing the nutrients that support marine food webs. In this episode, we explore why researchers are watching this event so closely and what it could mean for the future of the ocean.

One of the biggest concerns is how a super El Niño could affect fisheries and marine wildlife. When warmer water prevents nutrients from reaching the surface, phytoplankton production can decline, reducing food availability for fish, seabirds, seals, and sea lions. Some of the world's most important fisheries, including the Peruvian anchoveta fishery, have experienced major disruptions during past El Niño events, creating ripple effects throughout global seafood supply chains.

We also discuss why this story matters beyond the ocean. A strong El Niño can influence food security, coastal economies, coral reef health, and climate impacts across the globe. Although scientists cannot stop an El Niño from forming, improved forecasting and monitoring systems give communities more time to prepare. This episode examines the science behind the headlines and explains why what happens in the Pacific Ocean rarely stays in the Pacific Ocean.

Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon

Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca Connect with Speak Up For Blue Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube
9 min
June 23 The Hard Truth About Working in Ocean Conservation
After 11 years of hosting How to Protect the Ocean, I wanted to take a step back and reflect on what the journey has taught me. What started as a simple passion project became a platform for ocean storytelling, science communication, and career development. Along the way, I learned lessons about persistence, networking, and creating opportunities that I never could have predicted when I published the first episode.

One of the biggest takeaways is that building a career in marine science and conservation is rarely a straight line. Many people enter the field because they love the ocean, but passion alone is not enough. Success often comes from gaining experience, volunteering, developing new skills, and continuing to show up even when progress feels slow.

In this episode, I share the lessons that emerged from more than a decade of conversations with scientists, conservationists, policymakers, and ocean advocates. We discuss why visibility matters, how side projects can shape your future, and why consistency is often the most important skill of all. Whether you are just starting your ocean career or looking for inspiration to keep going, this episode offers an honest look at what it takes to build something meaningful over time.

Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon

Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca Connect with Speak Up For Blue Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube
35 min
June 22 The Ocean Sensors We Almost Lost
What happens when one of the world's most important ocean monitoring systems is nearly shut down?

The Ocean Observatories Initiative (OOI) collects critical data on ocean temperatures, oxygen levels, currents, marine ecosystems, and climate change. Earlier this year, parts of the program faced significant cuts, raising concerns among scientists, policymakers, and ocean advocates.

In this episode, we explore why researchers fought so hard to save the OOI, how the National Academies challenged the justification for the cuts, and why long-term ocean observations are essential for understanding climate change, marine ecosystems, and the future of ocean conservation.

If we stop watching the ocean, what might we miss?

Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon

Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca Connect with Speak Up For Blue Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube
10 min
June 19 The Ocean Is in Trouble, So Why Is This Report Hopeful?
The ocean is facing some of the biggest challenges in its history. Rising temperatures, marine heatwaves, coral bleaching, habitat loss, and overfishing continue to put pressure on marine ecosystems around the world. If you only follow the headlines, it can feel like ocean conservation is losing the battle.

But hidden within a recent United Nations ocean report is a surprising reason for optimism. While ocean health continues to decline in many areas, the systems designed to protect the ocean are getting stronger. Countries are expanding marine protected areas, improving international cooperation, deploying satellite monitoring technology, and developing new agreements to manage the ocean more effectively.

In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, Andrew Lewin explores the difference between ocean health and ocean governance, and why that distinction matters. You'll learn why conservation progress often feels slow, how stronger governance creates the foundation for long-term recovery, and why recognizing meaningful progress is essential if we want to stay motivated and continue protecting the ocean.

Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon

Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca Connect with Speak Up For Blue Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube
21 min
June 18 The Power Shift Changing Ocean Projects in Canada
For decades, Indigenous communities were often asked whether they approved of projects happening in their territories. But a different question is now emerging: why should they not own part of those projects?

In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, Andrew Lewin looks at the shift from consultation to Indigenous ownership in ocean conservation, fisheries, infrastructure, and ocean technology. From the Mi'kmaq ownership stake in Clearwater Seafoods to the future of ocean data, monitoring, and blue economy projects, this episode asks who gets to lead, who benefits, and why ownership may shape the future of conservation more than technology alone.

Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon

Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca Connect with Speak Up For Blue Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube
19 min
June 17 What Happens When Whales Can't Hear Their Families?
Pilot whales rely on sound for nearly every aspect of their lives. They use vocalizations to communicate with family members, coordinate movements, find food, and navigate through their environment. But what happens when the ocean becomes so noisy that those sounds are drowned out? In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, we explore new research suggesting that commercial shipping noise in the Strait of Gibraltar may be interfering with the ability of pilot whales to hear and communicate with one another.

The Strait of Gibraltar is one of the busiest shipping routes on the planet, connecting the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea. Every day, hundreds of vessels move through these waters, generating a constant background of underwater noise. Scientists are increasingly concerned that this noise pollution is masking whale calls, forcing animals to change how they communicate and potentially affecting their ability to stay connected with their social groups. For highly social species like pilot whales, losing the ability to communicate effectively could have serious consequences.

In this episode, Andrew Lewin breaks down why sound is so important in the ocean, how human activities are changing underwater soundscapes, and what can be done to reduce noise pollution. You'll learn why scientists consider sound an essential part of marine habitat, how quieter ships could help protect marine mammals, and why ocean conservation is about more than just protecting physical spaces. If you've ever wondered how something as invisible as noise can impact whale survival, this episode is for you.

Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon

Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca Connect with Speak Up For Blue Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube
18 min

About How To Protect The Ocean

From the publisher's feed

Dive into the Depths: Join Andrew Lewin on 'How to Protect the Ocean' – Your Gateway to Exclusive Ocean Insights! Explore the latest, uncharted realms of ocean science and conservation that you won't find anywhere else. Andrew takes you on an inspiring journey to uncover the hidden gems of oceanic discovery and initiatives. Tune in to discover how you can transform your life for a better ocean, one episode at a time.

The How To Protect The Ocean is your resource to keep you informed on the latest ocean news; teach you how to speak up for the ocean; and, how you can take action to live for a better ocean.

There is so much information on the ocean and the issues that are affecting it that it can be difficult to find optimism in the future of the ocean. Climate change, overfishing, plastic pollution, water pollution, and coastal development have altered the ocean in ways that have negatively changed the way we use it.

The repercussions of climate change, including the ominous specter of rising sea levels, the relentless march of warming ocean temperatures, and the ominous shadow of ocean acidification, have not only altered the very fabric of our coastlines but have also conjured fiercer storms and summoned floods with growing frequency. The fossil fuel industry may whisper in your ear that the situation is insurmountable, an inescapable fate. However, this podcast is here to unveil a different narrative, one that empowers you to take action. It illuminates the path to change by casting your vote for leaders committed to implementing climate-rescuing policies and by offering invaluable insights into how each of us can shrink our individual carbon footprint.

The grim reality of overfishing casts a long shadow, fueled by governmental shortcomings in the stewardship of both commercial and recreational fisheries. Within the delicate balance of our oceans, every fish population possesses a threshold - a point at which the relentless harvest of fishermen begins to erode their numbers. The management of these aquatic resources is a formidable task, as the elusive currents of the sea often defy easy tracking. Furthermore, the menace of illegal, unregulated, and unreported (IUU) fishing looms large in many nations, adding to the crisis.

Yet, a glimmer of hope shines through the depths. A beacon for responsible consumption emerges in the form of seafood programs, guiding conscientious individuals toward choices that safeguard our oceans. By heeding these programs, you not only savor the delights of sustainable seafood but also become an informed guardian of marine ecosystems.

The relentless scourge of plastic pollution has unleashed an epidemic of death upon the denizens of our oceans. It's a ruthless killer, claiming the lives of hundreds of thousands of marine mammals, majestic sharks, grandiose fish, gentle sea turtles, and the graceful sea birds that soar above. The malevolence of this crisis knows no bounds, with microplastics infiltrating even the remotest depths of the ocean and etching their presence along every coastline.

To mount a defense against this ecological cataclysm, the clarion call for action echoes on the international and national stages. It beckons governments far and wide to adopt resolute policies, wielding the power to outlaw the menace of single-use plastics and demanding the meticulous detoxification of our supply chains. In this grand battle to safeguard our seas, the fight against plastic pollution knows no borders.

The ominous specter of water pollution looms large, a consequence of our thoughtless disposal into the arteries of our planet – our streams, rivers, lakes, and oceans. This callous act reverberates, sending shockwaves through the intricate ecosystems of our coastal havens, where the likes of coral reefs, resilient mangroves, and swaying seagrasses thrive. But alas, this intrusion is not benign; it bears the capacity to corrode and dismantle these vital sanctuaries, the very lifeblood of countless fish and the steadfast guardians of our vulnerable shorelines.

Yet, amidst the unsettling tide of pollution, there emerges a ray of hope. Through individual resolve and visionary government policies harnessed with cutting-edge technology, we can stem this toxic deluge. Water treatment systems stand as stalwart guardians, armed with the ability to sift out the insidious nutrients that fuel destructive algal blooms. The power to heal our waters and preserve the sanctity of our coastal treasures lies within our grasp.

Coastal development, driven by human desires to construct homes or fortify the shoreline against erosion, represents a significant intervention in the natural order. Yet, these changes, while initially confined to the coastal zone, often send ripple effects that extend far beyond their original boundaries, casting a shadow of unintended consequences.

The repercussions of altering coastlines resonate through interconnected ecosystems, occasionally triggering a cascade of events that can inflict profound harm on distant areas. In doing so, this well-intentioned transformation can unwittingly imperil the lives and livelihoods of communities residing in the wake of its impact. It is a stark reminder that our actions along the coast carry a profound responsibility, not just to the immediate environment but to the greater web of life and society that depends upon it.