Navigating Climate Change and Politics: A Conversation with Janelle Kellman
Release Date: 08/05/2024
How To Protect The Ocean
Ocean Conservation Disconnect defines the state of ocean conservation today, where public enthusiasm rarely translates into real impact. The viral plastic straw campaign proved that a simple symbol could spark global conversations, yet it shifted focus away from the systemic changes needed to reduce ocean plastic. Swapping plastic for metal straws may feel empowering, but it does not challenge the corporations and industries fueling the crisis. Ocean Ramsey represents a modern paradox: charismatic advocates who bring sharks to mainstream attention, but sometimes offer shallow solutions. As her...
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Tuna sustainability is more than a buzzword—it’s a complex challenge tackled head-on by the International Seafood Sustainability Foundation (ISSF). In this episode, Susan Jackson, ISSF President, joins host Andrew Lewin to unpack their groundbreaking 2024 Annual Report. From developing biodegradable jelly-FADs to advancing electronic monitoring standards, Susan explains how ISSF works with fishers, corporations, and NGOs to make global tuna fishing more sustainable and transparent. Electronic monitoring takes center stage as Susan discusses how vessel-level cameras and sensors are...
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French Polynesia marine protected area is now the largest in the world, covering nearly 4.8 million square kilometers of ocean. This groundbreaking conservation effort was announced during the United Nations Ocean Conference and includes large no-take zones near the Society and Gambier Islands, along with expansive areas that restrict harmful activities like deep-sea mining and bottom trawling. The MPA recognizes traditional fishing rights while also preserving critical marine habitats. Marine conservation leadership by French Polynesia demonstrates how small island states can make bold...
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The problem with seaweed aquaculture is that it’s not always as ocean-friendly as it seems. While seaweed farming is often praised as a climate solution—able to sequester carbon, improve water quality, and support sustainable food systems—scientists are now warning that its rapid, unregulated expansion could be damaging vital marine ecosystems. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, we dive into how seaweed farms are being placed over seagrass meadows, disrupting fish nurseries, smothering biodiversity, and altering water chemistry in ways we’re only beginning to understand....
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UNOC 2025 brought major headlines in ocean conservation—from billions pledged to protect biodiversity, to significant movement on the High Seas Treaty. In this episode, Andrew Lewin returns from the UN Ocean Conference in Nice, France, with a firsthand account of what was announced, what was promised, and what might actually happen. Ocean finance was a hot topic this year. Governments, development banks, and private investors pledged record-breaking funding to tackle everything from plastic pollution to marine ecosystem restoration. But Andrew dives into why these billions still fall...
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Why Cayman Islanders Voted against a massive cruise ship pier is a rare and powerful story of reef protection over profit. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, Andrew Lewin unpacks the bold decision by Cayman citizens to reject a development project that would have severely damaged their coral reef ecosystem. The vote sent a clear message: the long-term health of the ocean matters more than short-term tourism dollars. Why Cayman Islanders Voted is also a reminder that grassroots action can be effective. Andrew explores how this vote happened, what it means for ocean conservation around...
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Climate policy in the U.S. has taken a wild ride in recent years. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, I speak with Chris Moyer, founder of Echo Communication Advisors, about the turbulent shifts in federal policy—especially during the Trump and Biden administrations, and how these shifts have disrupted progress in renewable energy. We examine the implications of these changes for energy development, environmental protection, and the impact of public messaging on political will to act. Renewable energy isn’t just a technological challenge—it’s also a communication challenge....
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Oceans Day is more than a date on the calendar—it’s a moment to reflect on the state of our blue planet and our role in protecting it. In this heartfelt episode, Andrew Lewin shares a personal message for Oceans Day 2025 (and any day after), speaking directly to those who feel overwhelmed by climate anxiety and unsure of their place in ocean conservation. His reminder is clear: the problems may be big, but so is our potential to create change. Ocean conservation isn’t only for scientists or policymakers—it’s for everyone. Andrew emphasizes that small, intentional actions taken by...
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Ocean Networks Canada (ONC) began as a bold idea—to create a real-time, always-on listening system for the ocean. In this episode, Surfacing Secrets: Mavericks and Visionaries, we go behind the scenes with the people who made that idea real. From laying cables deep in the Pacific to building trust with research institutions and government partners, this is the untold story of how a world-leading ocean observatory came to life. Our guests—Kate Moran (President and CEO of Ocean Networks Canada), John Delaney (Professor Emeritus, School of Oceanography, University of Washington), and...
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Ocean conservation is more than protecting ecosystems—it’s about empowering people to lead change. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, Andrew, Serena, and Amanda explore the WaveMaker identity, what it means to be part of a movement, and how The Undertow is creating a community where action and support go hand-in-hand. WaveMakers aren’t just scientists or campaigners—they’re everyday people standing up for the ocean. This episode is a behind-the-scenes look at the launch of The Undertow and the people who are already making waves in ocean conservation worldwide. Join The...
info_outlineThis episode of the "How to Protect the Ocean" podcast delves into the importance of policy within politics, specifically focusing on the blue economy, climate change, and ocean-related conservation issues. Host Andrew Lewin interviews Janelle Kellman, former mayor of Sausalito City and current council member, who shares insights on the significance of working together for impactful policies. Kellman's background as an athlete and her connection to the ocean are also explored. Tune in to gain valuable perspectives on advocating for the ocean through government and policy.
Connect with Janelle Kellman:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janellekellmanforltg/
Website: https://janellekellman.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janelle-kellman-esq-she-her-86021a4/
Sign Up for Updates on the process: www.speakupforblue.com/oceanapp
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
Collaboration between public and private sectors is essential for addressing climate change and promoting the blue economy. In a podcast episode, Janelle Kellman, the former mayor of Sausalito City and founder of the Center for Sea Rise Solutions, emphasizes the importance of public-private partnerships in tackling environmental challenges. She highlights the need for partnerships to address issues like sea level rise, flooding, and wildfires, which are common concerns for coastal cities.
Kellman stresses the significance of working together to find solutions that benefit both the environment and the economy. She mentions initiatives like the Blue Glue project, which focuses on leveraging the resources of ports to drive coastal resilience and economic development. By partnering with organizations like the World Ocean Council and local governments, the Center for Sea Rise Solutions aims to create job opportunities, address equity issues, and combat the climate crisis through innovative projects.
Furthermore, Kellman discusses the role of public-private collaborations in funding and implementing initiatives related to the blue economy. She mentions the need for workforce development programs to train individuals for jobs in renewable energy, aquaculture, and other sectors of the blue economy. By bringing together stakeholders from both sectors, the Center for Sea Rise Solutions aims to bridge the gap between policy, innovation, and economic growth in the context of climate change adaptation and ocean conservation.
Overall, the episode highlights the importance of collaboration between public and private entities in driving sustainable practices, creating resilient infrastructure, and fostering economic opportunities in the face of climate change challenges.
Local politics play a significant role in implementing climate resilience and adaptation strategies. In the podcast episode, Janelle Kellman, a former mayor of Sausalito City and a current city councilor, highlighted the importance of local politics in addressing climate change issues. She emphasized the need for collaboration and action at the local level to tackle challenges such as sea level rise, flooding, and wildfires.
Janelle discussed her experience in Sausalito, where she worked on implementing a blue economy task force and securing funding for climate adaptation projects. She emphasized the role of local government in planning for climate change impacts, such as infrastructure upgrades, disaster preparedness, and coastal resilience measures. By focusing on local issues and policies, Janelle demonstrated how cities can proactively address climate-related challenges and protect their communities.
Furthermore, Janelle highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships in addressing climate change at the local level. She mentioned initiatives such as workforce development programs and economic incentives for industries transitioning to renewable energy. By engaging with stakeholders, including businesses, educational institutions, and community members, local governments can drive sustainable practices and build climate-resilient communities.
Overall, the podcast episode underscored the critical role of local politics in implementing climate resilience and adaptation strategies. By leveraging local resources, expertise, and partnerships, cities like Sausalito can lead the way in addressing climate change impacts and creating a more sustainable future for their residents.
The Center for Sea Rise Solutions, as discussed in the podcast episode, plays a crucial role in sharing knowledge and best practices internationally to address coastal resilience and climate-related challenges. Janelle Kellman, the founder of the Center, highlighted the importance of collaborating with other coastal cities and countries to learn from each other's experiences and solutions. The Center has organized events and workshops in various locations, such as Monaco, Lisbon, Barcelona, and other coastal cities, to facilitate discussions on climate resilience and ocean conservation.
Through initiatives like economic risk assessments related to climate change and workshops focused on ports and their role in coastal resilience, the Center aims to bring together stakeholders from different regions to exchange ideas and strategies. By creating a platform for sharing information and fostering partnerships, the Center for Sea Rise Solutions contributes to a global effort to address the impacts of climate change on coastal communities.
The Center's approach emphasizes the importance of public-private partnerships and cross-border collaborations to tackle common challenges faced by coastal areas worldwide. By leveraging the expertise and resources of various stakeholders, the Center promotes the implementation of sustainable and innovative solutions to enhance coastal resilience and mitigate the effects of climate change on coastal ecosystems and communities.