How To Protect The Ocean Andrew Lewin

Andrew Lewin discusses the highlights and concerning moments of the ninth Our Oceans Conference held in Athens, Greece. With 469 new commitments made to protect the ocean, totaling $11.3 billion raised, the conference showcased both progress and challenges. Despite the high number of commitments, the amount raised was lower compared to previous years. Join Andrew as he delves into the outcomes of the conference and explores how individuals can support ocean conservation efforts.
Link to article: https://news.mongabay.com/2024/04/annual-ocean-conference-raises-11-3b-in-pledges-for-marine-conservation/
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Our Oceans Conference in Athens, Greece The recent Our Oceans Conference in Athens, Greece, was a significant milestone in global ocean conservation efforts. The conference witnessed the announcement of 469 new commitments aimed at protecting the ocean, demonstrating a strong global dedication to marine conservation. These commitments encompass a wide array of initiatives, including the establishment of marine protected areas, sustainable fisheries management, and addressing the impacts of climate change on the ocean.
A key highlight of the conference was the substantial funding raised for ocean protection. A total of $11.3 billion was pledged towards various ocean conservation projects, indicating a significant financial investment in safeguarding marine ecosystems. This funding will play a crucial role in supporting the implementation of the commitments made at the conference, ensuring tangible actions are taken to protect the ocean.
The commitments made at the Our Oceans Conference reflect a growing acknowledgment of the urgent need to address the threats facing the ocean. From banning harmful fishing practices like bottom trawling to supporting research on ocean and climate interactions, the commitments cover a wide range of issues crucial to ocean health. The conference also emphasized the importance of international collaboration in achieving meaningful progress in ocean conservation.
Moving forward, it is essential to ensure that the commitments made at the conference are effectively implemented and monitored. The positive success rate of previous commitments reaching their goals, as mentioned in the episode, provides optimism for the future of these initiatives. By building on the momentum generated at the conference and fostering strong partnerships between governments, organizations, and stakeholders, we can work towards a more sustainable and resilient ocean ecosystem.
Overall, the Our Oceans Conference in Athens, Greece, served as a platform for global leaders to unite and showcase their commitment to protecting the ocean. With 469 new commitments and $11.3 billion raised for ocean protection, the conference laid a strong foundation for advancing marine conservation efforts and ensuring a healthier future for our oceans.
One of the key takeaways from the podcast episode is the significant progress made at the Our Oceans Conference in terms of commitments and funding to protect the ocean. However, despite these advancements, there is still a long way to go to achieve the goal of protecting 30% of land and water by 2030. Currently, only 7.9% of the global ocean is protected, with only 4.2% being fully or highly protected, meaning no extractive activities are allowed within Marine Protected Areas (MPAs).
The episode highlights the slow pace of progress in reaching the 30%

Andrew Lewin, Lydia, and Sarah discuss the Ocean Stories podcast. Lydia and Sarah share insights on starting their podcast, choosing guests, and the joys and challenges of science communication. They delve into their backgrounds in sustainable companies and marketing, highlighting how they aim to inspire change and promote sustainable living through their entertaining and informative podcast.
Tune in for a deep dive into ocean science communication and sustainability efforts.
Connect with Ocean Stories:
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The Ocean Stories podcast, hosted by Sarah and Lydia, aims to share inspiring stories related to the ocean and sustainability with a broader audience. The podcast highlights individuals with diverse backgrounds and career paths who have a connection to the ocean, focusing on those making a difference in the ocean space, regardless of their expertise.
Sarah and Lydia started the podcast to showcase unique experiences and perspectives, featuring guests such as software engineers, performers, surfers, and environmental educators who contribute to ocean conservation and sustainability in their own ways. By sharing these stories, Ocean Stories aims to make sustainability more accessible and engaging to a wider audience, emphasizing the importance of relatable environmental education.
Both hosts have backgrounds in digital marketing for sustainable ocean-related brands, which has influenced their storytelling and science communication approach on the podcast. Their marketing experience enables them to effectively communicate complex scientific concepts in an engaging manner, crafting compelling narratives that resonate with listeners and make sustainability topics more approachable.
Utilizing their networking skills and social media expertise, Lydia and Sarah reach out to guests with unique ocean stories to share, promoting their podcast to a diverse audience. The podcast showcases a range of guests with unique career paths and experiences related to the ocean, emphasizing the importance of diverse perspectives in ocean conservation and education.
Featuring guests like Kayla, a software engineer working for Coral Gardeners, and Mermaid Elle, a performer turned ocean educator, the podcast demonstrates that anyone can contribute to protecting the ocean, regardless of their initial career path. By sharing these diverse stories, Ocean Stories educates and inspires listeners to consider how their skills and passions can make a positive impact on the marine environment, highlighting the value of each individual's unique perspective in addressing ocean challenges.







 










 

Tune in to this episode of the How to Protect the Ocean podcast to hear from Anthony Marente, the senior campaigner for Oceanic Canada, discussing the upcoming INC4 meeting in Ottawa as part of the UN Global Plastic Treaty. Discover the history of the treaty, previous meetings, and the expectations for this crucial gathering. Learn about the global efforts to combat plastic pollution and what we can do to protect our oceans.
Ocean Canada: https://oceana.ca/en/our-campaigns/plastics/
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Plastic pollution is a global issue with significant impacts on human health and the environment. The episode transcript sheds light on the widespread presence of plastic pollution in various ecosystems worldwide, from beaches to rivers to forests. The harmful effects of plastic pollution extend beyond the physical environment to human health.
The episode discusses how plastic pollution has resulted in the presence of microplastics in the air, water, and even in human bloodstreams. These microplastics contain chemicals linked to health issues such as cancers, respiratory illnesses, hormone disruption, and fertility impacts. The presence of these harmful substances poses a significant risk to human populations, especially those living near petrochemical plants and waste disposal sites.
Moreover, the episode underscores the connection between plastic pollution and human health by highlighting the transmission of microplastics from pregnant mothers to unborn children. This transmission through the placenta can have long-term implications for future generations' health, emphasizing the need to address plastic pollution as a public health concern.
The episode also addresses the disproportionate impact of plastic pollution on marginalized communities, such as Indigenous populations and residents of low-income areas. These communities often face elevated health risks due to plastic waste mismanagement, leading to higher cancer rates, respiratory issues, and other disparities. This highlights the importance of environmental justice and equitable solutions to address the health impacts of plastic pollution.
In conclusion, the episode stresses the urgent need for global action to combat plastic pollution, safeguarding both the environment and human health. By addressing the root causes of plastic pollution, implementing upstream measures, and promoting sustainable waste management practices, countries can work towards mitigating the health risks associated with plastic pollution and creating a healthier, more sustainable future for all.
The upcoming INC4 meeting in Ottawa is crucial for advancing the Global Plastic Treaty, part of the United Nations' efforts to tackle plastic pollution globally. The treaty aims to create a legally binding instrument involving all nations to end plastic pollution, particularly in the marine environment. Previous INC meetings have laid the groundwork for this treaty, with discussions focusing on ambitious measures like bans, prohibitions, and phase-outs of plastics.
However, the INC3 meeting in Kenya faced challenges in negotiations due to low ambition countries heavily reliant on oil and gas industries, such as Russia, Saudi Arabia, and Iran. These countries hindered progress by introducing obstacles in the negotiation process.
The INC4 meeting in Ottawa presents an opportunity to overcome these challenges and move towards a final, legally binding international treaty to addr

Andrew Lewin discusses the potential of replacing plastic with a sustainable substance found in shellfish. Imagine a world where everyday items are eco-friendly and do not harm the environment when disposed of. Join us to explore this innovative solution to plastic pollution and learn how we can all contribute to a healthier ocean.
Link to article: https://www.anthropocenemagazine.org/2024/03/experts-unlock-the-vast-potential-of-seafood-waste-without-the-toxic-after-effects/
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Chitin, a substance found in the shells of seafood shellfish, has emerged as a promising alternative to traditional plastic. Researchers at the University of Connecticut have developed a method to extract chitin from crabs, lobsters, and other crustaceans. Historically, chitin extraction has been challenging due to the use of harmful substances like hydrochloric acid, which can harm the environment. However, the researchers have found a more sustainable approach using non-toxic and biocompatible byproducts from the biodiesel industry.
This breakthrough is significant because chitin-based products could offer a more environmentally friendly solution to plastic pollution. Chitin-based materials have the potential to break down more easily in the environment, reducing the harmful impact on ecosystems. With approximately six million tons of seafood waste generated in the US alone each year, there is a vast potential source of chitin that could be repurposed into sustainable products.
The innovative extraction process involves using organic acids like glycerol, choline chloride, lactic acid, or malic acid to separate chitin from the shellfish material. This method not only makes chitin extraction more efficient but also eliminates the use of corrosive substances that harm the environment. The resulting chitin can be used as a biodegradable replacement for petroleum-based plastics, offering a more sustainable option for various products.
Furthermore, the researchers are exploring additional applications for chitin, such as turning salvaged chitin into nutrient-rich fertilizer for crops. This demonstrates the versatility and potential value of chitin as a sustainable resource. The episode emphasizes the importance of investing in innovative research projects like this to drive positive change and reduce our reliance on fossil fuels.
Researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery in finding a more environmentally friendly way to extract chitin from shellfish, making it a viable option for plastic production. Traditionally, extracting chitin from shellfish has been a challenging and polluting process, involving the use of harmful substances like hydrochloric acid. However, a lab at the University of Connecticut has found a new method that utilizes non-toxic, biocompatible, and cost-effective byproducts of the biodiesel industry, such as choline chloride, glycerol, and organic acids.
This innovative approach involves creating a solvent rich in hydrogen bonds that can break down the original bond in the shellfish material, enabling the separation and release of chitin from other compounds in the shells' complex matrix. This method not only makes the extraction process more efficient but also eliminates the harmful environmental impacts associated with traditional extraction methods.
With this new extraction process, chitin can now be obtained sustainably from the shells of crabs, lobsters, crustaceans, and shrimp. This discovery opens

This episode of the How to Protect the Ocean podcast delves into the water crisis plaguing the Hawaiian islands. The discussion explores the impact of climate change, military activities, and tourism on the dwindling water resources. Locals express their concerns about the crisis, highlighting worries about farming, water quality, and quantity. Listeners are encouraged to understand the severity of the situation and consider their own role in preserving water resources in Hawaii.
Link to article: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/hawaii-water-crisis-climate-change/
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Hawaii's Water Crisis: A Multi-Faceted Challenge Hawaii, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and pristine waters, is currently grappling with a severe water crisis. This crisis is not the result of a single factor but rather a combination of various issues, including climate change, military contamination, and the impacts of tourism.
Climate Change: Hawaii's water crisis is worsened by the effects of climate change. Altered weather patterns have led to prolonged droughts, diminishing the crucial rainfall needed to replenish freshwater sources on the islands.
The islands heavily depend on rainfall to recharge freshwater sources, which then percolate through the mountains into aquifers. However, with changing climate patterns, the frequency and intensity of rainfall have decreased, affecting the availability of potable water for residents.
Military Contamination: The presence of the U.S. military in Hawaii has also played a role in the water crisis. Military activities, such as the storage of jet fuel and chemicals like PFAS, have resulted in the contamination of water sources on the islands.
Incidents of jet fuel leaks and chemical contamination have led to health issues for residents, including birth defects and mental health concerns. The military's inadequate containment systems have failed to prevent these harmful substances from entering the water supply.
Tourism Impact: The thriving tourism industry in Hawaii has further strained the already limited water resources. Hotels, resorts, and tourist attractions consume significant amounts of freshwater for various purposes, including wave pools and landscaping.
The development associated with tourism, such as construction and infrastructure projects, has caused water contamination through sediment runoff and rerouting of water sources. This has impacted the quality and quantity of freshwater available to local communities.
Conclusion: The convergence of climate change, military contamination, and tourism activities has created a complex water crisis in Hawaii. Addressing this crisis requires a multi-faceted approach that includes sustainable water management practices, stricter regulations on contamination, and a reevaluation of the tourism industry's water usage. Preserving Hawaii's precious freshwater resources is essential not only for environmental conservation but also for the well-being and livelihoods of the island's residents.
The water crisis in Hawaii not only poses environmental challenges but also significantly impacts the health and well-being of the local Hawaiian population. The episode highlights how contamination from sources like leaking jet fuel and chemicals used as fire deterrents has led to serious health issues among residents. People have reported birth defects, mental health problems, and physical health issues due to the compromised water qu

Andrew Lewin dives into the current status of the Northern Cod stock, focusing on Newfoundland and Labrador in Canada. The episode explores the history of the stock, including the moratorium in the early 1990s and subsequent efforts by organizations like WWF to revive it. Listeners will gain insights into the challenges faced by the Northern Cod stock and what can be done to protect and restore this important fishery.
Link to the articles:
1) https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/newfoundland-labrador/northern-cod-stock-assessment-1.7156719
2) https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/newfoundland-labrador/dfo-capelin-stock-assessment-nl-2023-1.6779681
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The Northern Cod stock has long been a concern, consistently remaining in a critical or cautious zone. This status underscores the urgent need for careful management and conservation efforts to ensure the recovery and sustainability of the Northern Cod population.
The history of the Northern Cod stock shows a decline that led to a fishing moratorium in the early 1990s. Despite ongoing monitoring and assessment efforts, the population has struggled to rebound. DFO Science's stock assessments consistently place the Northern Cod stock in a critical or cautious zone, indicating the fragile state of the population.
The sensitivity of the Northern Cod stock highlights the importance of effective management strategies and conservation measures. Collaboration between government agencies, nonprofit organizations like WWF, and fisheries unions is crucial in addressing the challenges faced by the Northern Cod stock. These stakeholders work together to gather and analyze data, advocate for sustainable fishing practices, and ensure the long-term viability of the fishery.
The ongoing debate surrounding factors impacting the Northern Cod stock, such as climate change and seal populations, further emphasizes the need for comprehensive management and conservation efforts. The variability in stock assessments and the inclusion of new data highlight the complexity of managing a fishery with a troubled history like the Northern Cod.
In conclusion, the extended presence of the Northern Cod stock in a critical or cautious zone serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing conservation and sustainable management practices. By continuing to collaborate, gather accurate data, and implement effective conservation measures, stakeholders can work towards the recovery and resilience of the Northern Cod population.
The podcast episode highlights the ongoing debate and collaboration between government, nonprofit organizations, and fisheries unions to ensure sustainable fishing practices while protecting the environment. It emphasizes the importance of these stakeholders working together to address the challenges faced by fisheries, particularly in the case of the Northern Cod stock.
Government Involvement: The Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) plays a crucial role in conducting stock assessments and making decisions regarding fishing regulations. The government is responsible for implementing policies that aim to protect fish stocks and ensure sustainable fishing practices. However, the episode also acknowledges that there have been instances where political decisions have not aligned with scientific recommendations, leading to negative impacts on fish stocks.
Nonprofit Organizations: Organizations like WWF and Oceana Canada are actively involved in a