TikTok Creators Provide On-The-Ground Updates On Ocean Species And INC-4 Meetings
Release Date: 05/01/2024
How To Protect The Ocean
Fish feed in aquaculture is at the center of a complicated global story that most people never hear about. In this episode, Andrew sits down with marine biologist and policy expert Marine Cusa to explore the hidden world of fishmeal, fish oil, feed ingredients, and the surprising connections between aquaculture, wild fisheries, West African communities, and even penguin populations in Antarctica. Marine breaks down what actually goes into the pellets fed to farmed fish, why transparency is lacking in the supply chain, and how her genetics research is uncovering the real species being...
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Orcas vs Great White Sharks is more than a dramatic headline—it’s a sign of how ocean ecosystems are shifting before our eyes. New drone footage shows orcas in the Gulf of California attacking and killing juvenile great white sharks in what scientists believe are nursery zones. The footage, captured in 2020 and 2022, reveals orcas flipping young sharks onto their backs, inducing tonic immobility, and surgically removing their livers—a precise and efficient hunting technique that may reshape predator-prey dynamics. For years, scientists have known about great white shark nurseries, but...
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Seagrass meadows are among the most vital yet overlooked ecosystems on our planet. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, Andrew Lewin explores a new 19-year study from Moreton Bay, Australia, which shows that seagrass coverage and diversity are declining over time despite short-term recovery periods. This long-term research reveals that while short-term studies might show seagrass bouncing back after storms or floods, the bigger picture tells a story of gradual loss and ecological transformation. The episode also highlights why this decline matters: seagrass meadows are nurseries for...
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Animals affected by climate change are showing us how fragile our ecosystems have become. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, host Andrew Lewin speaks with Dr. Helen Killeen, a marine ecologist whose research connects seabird reproduction to shifting ocean temperatures, prey diversity, and climate pressures across the northern hemisphere. Animals affected by climate change, from seabirds in the Arctic to those in the Pacific, serve as living indicators of ocean health. Helen explains how changes in prey diversity and warming oceans disrupt seabird breeding success, what this means for...
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Marine Conservation Projects are driving real wins: green sea turtles downgraded to least concern in many regions, North Atlantic right whales showing a small but meaningful uptick, and a new vaquita calf sighting offering hope. In this episode I explain the common thread behind these stories, targeted local projects, science monitoring, and laws that actually get enforced, and I share practical ways you can support the people doing the work. From night patrols that protect turtle nests to whale disentanglement teams and community programs in Mexico that replace gillnets, you will hear how...
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Bill Gates and Climate Change have become a trending topic after the billionaire philanthropist argued that the world is too focused on cutting carbon emissions and not focused enough on improving human welfare. In this episode, I unpack what Gates said, why it caused such a reaction, and how his argument connects to decades of work in climate justice and climate equity. Many climate justice organizations have long emphasized that people struggling with hunger, illness, or poverty cannot prioritize environmental action until their basic needs are met. Gates’s claim—that people fighting to...
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North Atlantic right whales have been teetering on the edge of extinction for decades, with fewer than 400 individuals left. But recent reports hint at a small sign of hope: the population may finally be stabilizing, or even slightly increasing. In this episode, Andrew Lewin explores what that really means. Conservation efforts, from slower ship speeds to ropeless fishing gear, are starting to make a difference—but are they enough to ensure these whales survive? Andrew breaks down the latest science, the hard numbers from NOAA’s newest technical memo, and why every calf, especially every...
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Art and Ocean Science are merging in ways that bring new life to marine research and conservation. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, host Andrew Lewin speaks with the creative minds behind Ocean Networks Canada’s “Surfacing Secrets” project, a groundbreaking collaboration where sculptors, theatre directors, and scientists explore how art can help people see, feel, and understand the ocean in fresh ways. Ocean creativity takes center stage as guests share how sculpture can represent underwater sounds, theatre can transform data into emotion, and how cross-disciplinary...
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Nova Scotia Whale Sanctuary has officially received provincial approval, marking a monumental step toward creating Canada’s first ocean refuge for retired whales. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, Andrew Lewin explains how this decision moves the Whale Sanctuary Project closer to reality, what challenges remain before the sanctuary opens, and why this could change the way the world cares for marine mammals. Andrew also dives into how the Whale Sanctuary Project built the foundation for this historic milestone through years of environmental assessment, scientific planning, and...
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AI and Water are more connected than most people realize. As artificial intelligence continues to expand, the data centres that power it are using millions of litres of water every day to stay cool. This invisible demand is creating ripple effects across our freshwater systems, and ultimately, our ocean. In this episode, Andrew Lewin uncovers how AI’s explosive growth is reshaping global water use. From groundwater depletion and saltwater intrusion near coastal data hubs to desalination discharges harming marine life, the story goes far beyond servers and code. He breaks down how indirect...
info_outlineAndrew Lewin discusses the importance of science communication and staying informed about environmental issues such as orcas and plastic treaty talks. He highlights the role of creators on platforms like TikTok in spreading awareness and delves into the significance of speaking up for the ocean and the environment.
Join Andrew as he explores current happenings and emphasizes the need for action to protect our oceans and planet.
TikTok Creators:
Aly (Orcas): https://www.tiktok.com/@themoth219
Karishma the Climate Girl: https://www.tiktok.com/@karishmaclimategirl
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
Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram play a crucial role in science communication, particularly in raising awareness about ocean conservation and environmental issues. The episode transcript highlights the importance of creators like Ali and Karishma, who use these platforms to share valuable information and insights with their audiences.
Ali, a TikTok creator, provides day-to-day updates on orcas, including the endangered southern resident orca population. By sharing live videos and information about these animals, Ali not only educates her followers but also engages them in the conservation efforts for these species. This real-time information allows viewers to stay informed about the challenges and successes in marine conservation.
Similarly, Karishma, known as the "climate girl" on TikTok, sheds light on critical environmental issues, such as the UN Global Plastic Treaty discussions. Through her videos, she exposes the tactics of lobbyists and advocates for reducing single-use plastics. By documenting her experiences at events like INC4, Karishma provides a behind-the-scenes look at the negotiations and challenges faced in environmental policy-making.
These creators demonstrate how social media platforms can be powerful tools for science communication. By leveraging their platforms to share scientific information, engage with audiences, and advocate for conservation actions, they contribute to a broader understanding of ocean conservation and environmental sustainability. Their content not only educates but also inspires viewers to take action and become more involved in protecting the ocean and the planet.
Overall, the episode emphasizes the importance of supporting and following science communicators on social media platforms to stay informed, inspired, and engaged in conservation efforts. Through these creators, individuals can access valuable information, learn about ongoing environmental issues, and contribute to the collective goal of protecting the ocean and the environment.
Content creators like Ali and Karishma are instrumental in providing real-time information and insights on critical environmental topics such as orcas and plastic pollution. Ali, a TikTok creator, actively shares her knowledge and experiences regarding orcas, particularly focusing on the endangered southern resident orca population. Through her content, she offers day-to-day updates on orcas, including sightings, behaviors, and conservation efforts. For instance, Ali documented the heartwarming story of a stranded orca calf and provided updates on its successful return to the open ocean, showcasing the importance of her real-time reporting in raising awareness and celebrating conservation victories.
Similarly, Karishma, known as the "climate girl" on TikTok, attended the fourth meeting of the UN Global Plastic Treaty (INC4) as a journalist. Through her videos, she shed light on the lobbying efforts by industries profiting from plastic production, highlighting the challenges faced in addressing plastic pollution. Karishma's coverage exposed the tactics used by lobbyists to derail discussions on reducing single-use plastics and emphasized the need for transparency and accountability in environmental negotiations.
These content creators serve as valuable sources of information, bridging the gap between scientific research and public awareness. By sharing their insights and observations on platforms like TikTok, they engage audiences in environmental issues and inspire action towards conservation. Their dedication to providing real-time updates and raising awareness on pressing environmental concerns like orcas and plastic pollution demonstrates the power of social media in driving positive change and fostering a more informed and engaged global community.
Engaging with and supporting creators like Ali and Karishma, as highlighted in the podcast episode, can have a significant impact on inspiring action and contributing to the protection of the ocean and the environment. These creators play a crucial role in science communication by providing valuable insights, information, and updates on important environmental issues such as orca conservation and plastic pollution.
By following and actively engaging with these creators on platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, individuals can stay informed about current environmental challenges and conservation efforts. These creators offer a unique perspective and firsthand experiences that may not always be covered by traditional media outlets. For example, Ali's content on orcas in British Columbia sheds light on the daily lives and challenges faced by these endangered species, creating awareness and empathy among viewers.
Similarly, Karishma's coverage of the UN Global Plastic Treaty meeting at INC4 exposed the tactics used by lobbyists to derail discussions on reducing plastic pollution. By sharing these insights with her audience, Karishma not only educates but also empowers individuals to advocate for sustainable practices and policies that protect the environment.
Engaging with and supporting these creators goes beyond passive consumption of content; it can inspire action and drive positive change. By amplifying their messages, sharing their content, and participating in their calls to action, individuals can contribute to collective efforts to protect the ocean and the planet. These creators serve as catalysts for mobilizing a community of like-minded individuals who are passionate about conservation and environmental stewardship.
Ultimately, by actively supporting and engaging with science communicators and environmental advocates like Ali and Karishma, individuals can play a vital role in raising awareness, fostering a sense of responsibility, and taking tangible steps towards protecting the ocean and the environment for future generations.