Challenging Consumerism: Communicate Embracing Experiences Over Material Gifts
Release Date: 11/22/2023
Defunding Science Due To DEI: What It Means for Canada
How To Protect The Ocean
Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) have become integral components of Canadian science funding. In this episode, we explore Pierre Poilievre's plan to strip funding from research programs that incorporate so-called "woke" policies like EDI. We examine how EDI policies are currently embedded in major grants from NSERC, SSHRC, CIHR, and more, and discuss what could be at stake for Canada's research innovation if these changes move forward. Pierre Poilievre's proposal has sparked a broader debate within the Canadian academic and scientific communities. Many fear that removing EDI requirements...
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US Opens Up Marine Protected Areas to Fishing: What This Means for Ocean Conservation
How To Protect The Ocean
Fisheries: In this episode, we see the surprising news that the U.S. government is opening up parts of its marine protected areas (MPAs) to commercial fishing. This rollback of protections in the Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument has sparked debate about the future of sustainable fisheries and marine biodiversity. Ocean: We explore what this decision signals for global ocean governance and why it could undermine years of conservation progress. Focusing on political motivations and international implications, we ask the hard questions: Are MPAs truly protected if they can be so...
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AI-Powered Conservation: The Future of Coral Reef Protection with Andy Ridley
How To Protect The Ocean
Great Barrier Reef bleaching is accelerating at a dangerous pace, and yet, hope rises from a unique blend of technology, data, and collective action. In this powerful episode, Andrew talks to Andy Ridley, the founding CEO of Citizens of the Reef, about how they are building one of the most ambitious citizen science movements on the planet. They discuss how climate change rapidly degrades one of the world’s natural wonders and how empowering ordinary people to contribute data can shift the tide toward reef recovery. Citizen science plays a key role in understanding reef health on a massive...
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How McKnsea Balances Her Marine Career and Content Creation to Inspire Ocean Advocacy
How To Protect The Ocean
Ocean conservation is more than a job—it’s a calling. In this episode, we sit down with McKenzie Margereth, known online as McKnsea, who shares her inspiring journey of making bold career decisions in marine biology while becoming a powerful voice for science communication on social media. Her story highlights the challenges and triumphs of balancing a full-time role in marine science with a passion for educating the public about the ocean. Science communication becomes a lifeline when it’s driven by love for the sea. McKenzie opens up about the emotional and professional toll of...
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Coral Restoration In Trouble: Why Saving Reefs Takes More Planting Coral
How To Protect The Ocean
Coral restoration is often seen as a beacon of hope for our oceans—but are we putting too much faith in it? In this episode, we dive into why coral bleaching has become an annual event, especially on the Great Barrier Reef, and whether restoration can keep up with the pace of climate change. We explore what recurring stress events mean for the long-term survival of reefs and how restoration, while helpful, might be insufficient if larger systemic issues like warming seas and pollution aren’t addressed. Restoration is discussed not just as a solution, but as a strategy that needs to be...
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Rebuilding Fisheries in Canada: Capelin Biomass Falling Yet Fishing Stays Open
How To Protect The Ocean
Rebuilding fisheries in Canada: Capelin biomass is only at 16% of its pre-collapse level, which spells disaster for northern cod's recovery. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, host Andrew Lewin breaks down the troubling state of Canada’s east coast fisheries. With DFO ignoring science-based recommendations, capelin is being harvested despite dangerously low numbers—and the ripple effects are hurting northern cod and entire coastal ecosystems. Northern cod cannot recover without capelin, their primary prey, yet management plans still treat these species separately. Andrew explores...
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Shark Communication: Graduate Studies, Sharks Science, and TikTok with Kenzie Horton
How To Protect The Ocean
Shark communication is critical in changing their "man-eating" reputation from the movie Jaws. Sharks need protection so telling people about the wonders of sharks is essential. Marine biology is more than just a job — it’s a lifestyle driven by passion and purpose. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, host Andrew Lewin speaks with marine biologist Kenzie Horton, who shares how her love for the ocean shaped her career. Based in Florida, Kenzie juggles a full-time role in state government, a master’s degree researching white sharks, and a growing platform on TikTok where she busts...
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Dire Wolf Brought Back? The Wild Science and Ethics of De-Extinction
How To Protect The Ocean
De-extinction is no longer just science fiction. In this episode, we dive into the controversial concept of bringing back extinct species—specifically the dire wolf—using cutting-edge genetic engineering. Inspired by the headline-grabbing efforts to resurrect woolly mammoths, scientists are now exploring how DNA from ancient canids could be used to reintroduce this Ice Age predator into modern ecosystems. Genetic engineering plays a central role in this story. From piecing together fragmented DNA to editing modern genomes, researchers face significant scientific, ethical, and ecological...
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Rare Intersex Southern Right Whale Discovered Through Genetic Testing
How To Protect The Ocean
Intersex marine mammals are an exceptionally rare topic in marine biology, and in this episode, we dive into a groundbreaking discovery of an intersex southern right whale. The whale, sampled in 1989, was recently found to possess XY chromosomes through genetic testing. This revelation opens up new conversations about sex differentiation in marine species and the complexities of whale biology that scientists are only beginning to uncover. Southern right whale research has long been essential to ocean conservation, but this case adds an entirely new layer. Through a discussion of how genetic...
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Why the US Might Start Deep Sea Mining (And What It Means for the Ocean)
How To Protect The Ocean
Deep sea mining is making headlines as the United States considers allowing operations within its boundaries. In this episode, Andrew Lewin dives into a recent development involving a Canadian company, The Metals Company, that is pushing to mine the deep sea in US territory. What does this mean for the environment, international law, and ocean conservation? The US government’s stance on deep sea mining could shift the global conversation around ocean resource extraction. Andrew explores the political, environmental, and legal implications of this move, the role of the International Seabed...
info_outlineIn this episode, host Andrew Luen explores the importance of science and conservation communication in changing behaviors to protect the ocean. He discusses the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday and the consumer frenzy of Black Friday and Cyber Monday, emphasizing the need to rethink our behavior and prioritize conservation.
Tune in to learn how we can speak up for the ocean and take action to create a better future for our planet.
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Bernie's company is actively making a positive impact on the world through various environmental and local projects. The podcast transcript highlights how Bernie's team is involved in environmental initiatives and reconciliation projects with indigenous groups, demonstrating their commitment to improving the environment and making a difference in the community. Moreover, the podcast emphasizes that Bernie's team genuinely enjoys their work, indicating that the company's focus on these projects has fostered a positive culture within the team. Overall, Bernie's company is effectively leveraging their business to contribute to environmental and community initiatives, showcasing their dedication to creating a positive impact on the world.
In this episode of the podcast, the host explores the crucial role of science communicators in promoting alternatives to harmful consumerism. The host specifically emphasizes the negative consequences of materialistic behaviors, particularly during events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday. They shed light on how the commercial aspect of these events encourages people to purchase products that may harm the environment or exploit those involved in their production.
The host suggests that science communicators have a responsibility to encourage individuals to consider alternatives to material goods. Instead of simply discouraging the purchase of consumer products or gifts, they should promote experiences such as family trips or volunteering for charities. By focusing on these alternatives, science communicators can help shift the perspective from materialistic consumption to more sustainable and meaningful actions.
The host acknowledges the challenge science communicators face in addressing these issues without sounding negative. They emphasize the importance of presenting alternatives in a positive light, rather than solely discouraging certain behaviors. Instead of saying "don't buy this because it affects the environment," science communicators should focus on suggesting actions that benefit the environment, such as choosing eco-friendly products or engaging in activities that promote conservation.
Overall, this episode highlights the significant role of science communicators in promoting alternatives to harmful consumerism. By encouraging individuals to think beyond material goods and consider more sustainable actions, science communicators can help protect the environment and drive positive change.
In the episode, the speaker underscores the importance of considering the environmental impact of our purchases and only acquiring what is truly necessary. They draw attention to the consumerism associated with events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday, where people are enticed to buy discounted items without fully considering the environmental consequences. The speaker questions whether the convenience of acquiring more stuff, particularly from large online retailers like Amazon, outweighs the negative impacts on the environment and local communities.
They suggest that as science communicators, it is crucial to discuss alternatives to the materialistic mindset that often surrounds these shopping events. They advocate for a shift in behavior and mindset, encouraging individuals to reflect on their true needs and support small businesses that contribute to local economies. The speaker argues that instead of focusing on accumulating more possessions and wealth, individuals should prioritize making a positive impact on the world and their communities.
Overall, the episode emphasizes the need for individuals to be mindful consumers, considering the environmental consequences of their purchases and making choices that align with their values and the well-being of the planet.