Welcome to the Otter, where we, a group of junior high kids from Minnesota, discuss real-world problems and what we can do to solve them. In this eye-opening episode, we tackle the issue of human overconsumption of our world's ocean waters and its devastating effects. We were inspired by documentaries like Sea Spearcy, which brought the overfishing crisis to our attention, and explore sustainable fishing practices like those of the Bannua people of the Philippines who demonstrate how to hunt for fish responsibly. We also discuss the intentional dolphin chasing and netting due to tuna fishing, as well as the unintentional bycatch from bottom trawling that leads to the death of millions of sea turtles, sharks, whales, and dolphins each year. Even the Great Barrier Reef is affected by overconsumption, with pieces of plastic as short as half a centimeter long increasing the risk of disease in the coral up to 90% higher than it was.
We don't just focus on the dire situations; we also highlight the positive changes taking place around the world, such as sustainable local seafood initiatives and the work of organizations like Sea Shepherd. We examine the complex fishing industry and its global implications on sustainability, from commercial fishing to local restaurants. Join us as we explore these pressing issues and learn about ways we can take action to protect our oceans and the incredible marine life they support. Tune in to The OtterPod and be empowered to make a difference!