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The ocean isn't silent—it's a symphony of natural sounds that marine life depends on for survival. But human-generated noise pollution is drowning out this essential communication network with potentially devastating consequences. Michael takes us deep into the world of marine bioacoustics, revealing how political decisions directly impact ocean ecosystems. With three decades of experience studying underwater sound, Stocker paints a vivid picture of the challenges facing marine life today. We explore the shocking effects of military sonar on beaked whales, where intense acoustic disturbances cause animals to surface too quickly, resulting in catastrophic internal injuries similar to decompression sickness in human divers. Stocker describes how their bodies appeared like "milkshakes inside" during necropsies—a graphic reminder of how sound can kill. The conversation turns to innovative solutions, including Stocker's groundbreaking work using wavelet analysis to precisely track whale movements near shipping lanes. This technology could revolutionize marine mammal protection by allowing ships to "see" whales on their navigation systems and avoid collisions without necessarily slowing down—a win for both conservation and commerce. Climate change compounds these acoustic challenges, with melting Arctic ice eliminating crucial feeding grounds for gray whales. Whether discussing non-cavitating propeller designs that could dramatically reduce vessel noise or the devastating impact of bottom trawling on marine habitats, Stocker provides both expertise and hope. His parting advice offers meaningful action for listeners. Sites: https://ocr.org/ & https://ocean-noise.com/
Planet Centric Media (non-profit)Support the show
Thank you for listening, subscribing, & supporting Resilient Earth Radio!
Leigh Anne Lindsey, Producer Sea Storm Studios, The Sea Ranch, North Sonoma Coast
Scott & Tree Mercer, Co-hosts/Producers, Mendonoma Whale & Seal Study, Mendocino and Sonoma Coasts.
Planet Centric Media is Media for a Healthier Planet. Resilient Earth is a project of this 501 (c) (3) non-profit that is developing & producing media to elevate awareness of the interconnectedness of all living things.
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We still have time to make a positive impact on the future of life on this planet.
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By Planet Centric MediaSend us a text
The ocean isn't silent—it's a symphony of natural sounds that marine life depends on for survival. But human-generated noise pollution is drowning out this essential communication network with potentially devastating consequences. Michael takes us deep into the world of marine bioacoustics, revealing how political decisions directly impact ocean ecosystems. With three decades of experience studying underwater sound, Stocker paints a vivid picture of the challenges facing marine life today. We explore the shocking effects of military sonar on beaked whales, where intense acoustic disturbances cause animals to surface too quickly, resulting in catastrophic internal injuries similar to decompression sickness in human divers. Stocker describes how their bodies appeared like "milkshakes inside" during necropsies—a graphic reminder of how sound can kill. The conversation turns to innovative solutions, including Stocker's groundbreaking work using wavelet analysis to precisely track whale movements near shipping lanes. This technology could revolutionize marine mammal protection by allowing ships to "see" whales on their navigation systems and avoid collisions without necessarily slowing down—a win for both conservation and commerce. Climate change compounds these acoustic challenges, with melting Arctic ice eliminating crucial feeding grounds for gray whales. Whether discussing non-cavitating propeller designs that could dramatically reduce vessel noise or the devastating impact of bottom trawling on marine habitats, Stocker provides both expertise and hope. His parting advice offers meaningful action for listeners. Sites: https://ocr.org/ & https://ocean-noise.com/
Planet Centric Media (non-profit)Support the show
Thank you for listening, subscribing, & supporting Resilient Earth Radio!
Leigh Anne Lindsey, Producer Sea Storm Studios, The Sea Ranch, North Sonoma Coast
Scott & Tree Mercer, Co-hosts/Producers, Mendonoma Whale & Seal Study, Mendocino and Sonoma Coasts.
Planet Centric Media is Media for a Healthier Planet. Resilient Earth is a project of this 501 (c) (3) non-profit that is developing & producing media to elevate awareness of the interconnectedness of all living things.
Follow us!
We still have time to make a positive impact on the future of life on this planet.