221. How AI and Satellites Are Unmasking the Biggest Ocean Polluters with Nick Wise

This week, Matt Matern speaks with Nick Wise about how satellite technology and artificial intelligence are transforming ocean protection and climate accountability. Wise shares his personal journey from ocean exploration to founding OceanMind and co-founding Climate TRACE, explaining how space-based data can detect illegal fishing, monitor shipping emissions, and support enforcement of existing regulations. Nick also highlights how better transparency and data can accelerate ocean conservation, decarbonization, and global climate action.

To learn more about NIck Wise’s work, visit www.oceanmind.global and www.climatetrace.org

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Guest Bio:

Nick Wise is the founder and CEO of OceanMind and a co-founder of Climate TRACE. He is a climate and ocean technology leader using satellites, AI, and data transparency to combat illegal fishing, track global emissions, and strengthen enforcement of environmental regulations worldwide.

Episode Resources

• Oceanmind website: http://www.oceanmind.global
• Climate TRACE:  website: https://www.climatetrace.org
• Matt Matern on LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/ACClinkedin
• A Climate Change on Apple: https://bit.ly/accapplepodcast
• A Climate Change on Spotify: https://bit.ly/accspotifypodcast
• A Climate Change on YouTube: https://bit.ly/ACCvids

YouTube Chapters:

• 00:00 Why Satellites Are Changing Climate Accountability
• 01:00 Nick Wise’s Journey From Ocean Lover to Climate Tech Leader
• 03:30 How Satellites and AI Detect Illegal Fishing
• 06:00 What OceanMind Does and Why Enforcement Matters
• 09:00 Real Wins Protecting Oceans and Supply Chains
• 12:00 Climate TRACE and Tracking Global Emissions
• 16:00 Turning Emissions Data Into Real Reductions
• 19:30 Can Polluters Be Held Legally Accountable
• 24:00 How AI and Data Actually Power Enforcement
• 29:00 Why Fisheries and Oceans Are Still at Risk
• 34:30 What Coral Bleaching and Ocean Warming Look Like Up Close
• 38:00 Climate Risk, Shipping, and the Insurance Wake-Up Call
• 44:30 Why We Don’t Need New Tech—Just Action
• 49:00 How You Can Use Climate Data to Make Change
• 55:00 Final Thoughts on Power, Policy, and the Path Forward

More About A Climate Change with Matt Matern

A Climate Change with Matt Matern is a podcast dedicated to addressing the pressing issue of climate change while inspiring action and fostering a sustainable future. Each episode dives deep into the environmental challenges of our time, rising global temperatures, extreme weather events, and resource degradation, breaking down complex topics into digestible insights.

The podcast goes beyond merely raising awareness. It serves as a trusted resource for practical, actionable solutions that empower listeners to reduce their carbon footprint and drive change in their communities. With a strong focus on environmental science and expert perspectives, host Matt Matern brings influential voices to the forefront, highlighting innovative ideas and collaborative efforts shaping global sustainability initiatives.

More than just a source of information, A Climate Change is a movement. It builds a coalition of like-minded individuals committed to preserving the planet for future generations. Listeners are invited to participate actively in creating a legacy of positive environmental impact through informed decision-making and collective action.

The podcast, available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube, provides a platform for science-backed discussions, global perspectives, and community building. Whether you want to learn about renewable energy, sustainable living practices, or climate policy, A Climate Change with Matt Matern equips you with the tools and knowledge to make a tangible difference. Tune in, take action, and join the fight for a brighter, greener future.