Are Harmful Algal Blooms Affecting Whales? New study's results being questioned
Release Date: 02/10/2025
Plastic Pollution Research: How Microplastics Threaten Coral Reefs and What We Can Do About It
How To Protect The Ocean
Plastic pollution is one of the most pressing threats to our oceans today. In this episode, we explore how microplastics—tiny fragments of plastic waste—make their way into tropical marine ecosystems and cause lasting damage. Whether it’s through broken-down consumer products or fishing gear, plastic pollution infiltrates ocean habitats and harms marine life in ways we’re just beginning to understand. Coral reefs, often called the rainforests of the sea, are especially vulnerable to plastic pollution. These vital ecosystems support biodiversity, protect coastlines, and sustain...
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How to Protect Tuna: Insights from ISSF’s Gala Moreno on Sustainable Fisheries
How To Protect The Ocean
Global tuna fisheries are facing mounting pressure from overfishing, bycatch, and unsustainable fishing practices. Gala Moreno from the International Sustainable Seafood Foundation (ISSF) shares her expert insights on the current state of tuna populations and the urgent need for sustainable solutions. She explains how ISSF is collaborating with fishers, policymakers, and scientists to create strategies that protect tuna stocks while supporting the fishing industry. From improving fishing gear to implementing science-based management, Gala provides a clear picture of what it takes to maintain a...
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Marine Conservation Is In Trouble — Why People Aren’t Concerned About the Ocean
How To Protect The Ocean
Marine conservation is in trouble — and the biggest problem isn’t just pollution or overfishing. The real issue is that people are becoming disconnected from the ocean, and that lack of concern is threatening marine ecosystems worldwide. In this episode, I’m reporting from Oahu, Hawaii, where I’ve witnessed firsthand the troubling signs of ocean health decline — and why fewer people seem to care. Ocean protection is critical, but public interest in marine issues is fading. People aren’t engaging with the pressing issues of climate change, coral reef degradation, and marine...
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False Killer Whale Stranding in Tasmania – Why It Happened and What We Can Learn
How To Protect The Ocean
False killer whale strandings in Tasmania are rare; however, on February 20, 2025, approximately 157 whales stranded and passed away, with at least 99 being euthanized after multiple attempts to float them back into the ocean failed. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, I dive into the tragic stranding of 157 false killer whales on Tasmania’s northwest coast in February 2025. Despite the heroic efforts of rescuers, the event ended with the euthanasia of the remaining survivors. We’ll explore the possible causes behind this heartbreaking event, what it reveals about marine...
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How the Panama Canal Expansion is Threatening Panama’s Ecosystem and Water Supply
How To Protect The Ocean
The Panama Canal expansion allowed bigger ships to move through the canal; however, it also allowed an invasion of saltwater and saltwater fish into a freshwater lake, which threatened freshwater fish species and half of the country's drinking water. I dive into the unintended consequences of the 2016 Panama Canal expansion. Saltwater species from the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans are now invading Lake Gatún, displacing native freshwater fish and jeopardizing the water supply for nearly half of Panama’s population. Find out how this ecological shift is affecting local communities and the...
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Protecting Manta Rays from Over-Tourism in Hawaii – Martina Wing’s Mission
How To Protect The Ocean
How is the rise in tourism affecting manta rays in Hawaii? Martina Wing shares her firsthand experience with the challenges of growing tourism and its impact on manta ray populations. Learn how Martina is working to protect these majestic creatures and what needs to change to ensure their survival. This eye-opening conversation reveals the delicate balance between eco-tourism and marine conservation. Websites: Follow a career in conservation: Use the code SUFB to get 33% off courses and the careers program. Do you want to join my Ocean Community? Sign Up for Updates on the...
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How NOAA and EPA Layoffs Threaten Environmental Research and Public Safety
How To Protect The Ocean
In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, we dive into the recent layoffs at NOAA and EPA, which have led to over a thousand scientists and environmental professionals losing their jobs. What does this mean for climate research, weather forecasting, and environmental protection? Join us as we unpack the consequences and what can be done to support these critical agencies. Follow a career in conservation: Use the code SUFB to get 33% off courses and the careers program. Do you want to join my Ocean Community? Sign Up for Updates on the process: Sign up for our...
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How Bahamian Music and Education Inspire Ocean Conservation
How To Protect The Ocean
How do you get people interested in learning about the ocean? In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, we speak with Bahamian artist and educator Javan Hunt, who combines music and education to inspire the next generation of ocean stewards. Discover how his nonprofit work is helping kids in the Bahamas connect with their marine environment and why their backyard is key to conservation. Join us for a conversation on culture, biodiversity, and the power of storytelling to protect our oceans. 🎧 Listen now and subscribe for more ocean conservation insights! Follow a career in...
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How Much Do We Rely on Weather Forecasting? | The Truth About Weather Predictions
How To Protect The Ocean
How much do we truly depend on weather forecasting? Whether it’s planning our daily commute, scheduling outdoor events, or making critical decisions for agriculture and disaster preparedness, we rely on meteorologists and weather models more than we realize. But how accurate are these predictions, and what happens when they go wrong? In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of weather forecasting with meteorologist Dave Jones. We explore the technology behind weather predictions, why forecasts sometimes miss the mark, and how climate change is making weather patterns more...
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Are all protected areas in the ocean equal? A study on the bonus species protection
How To Protect The Ocean
Are OECMs (Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures) just as effective as Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in protecting biodiversity? In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, we break down the differences, benefits, and challenges of OECMs, particularly in Canada’s conservation strategy. Learn how fisheries closures and Indigenous-led conservation initiatives contribute to marine biodiversity and whether they should be counted toward Canada’s 30x30 target. 🔹 What are OECMs, and how do they compare to MPAs? 🔹 Can fisheries closures serve as effective conservation...
info_outlineAre harmful algal blooms (HABs) endangering whales? In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, we explore how HABs might disorient whales, putting them in dangerous situations. Drawing on insights from studies and an article from Mongabay News, I discuss the science, controversies, and potential conservation solutions.
Tune in to learn more about this critical ocean health issue and what can be done to protect marine life.
Link to article: https://news.mongabay.com/2025/02/study-suggests-algal-blooms-disorient-whales-putting-them-in-danger/
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