Episodios

  • Climate Denial in Government: The Need for Voter Awareness

    Climate Denial in Government: The Need for Voter Awareness
    Aug 16 2024
    This episode of the How to Protect the Ocean podcast delves into the critical issue of climate denial among politicians in the US and its impact on climate action. Despite the urgent need for eco-solutions and renewable energy, a significant number of politicians are climate deniers, hindering progress. The episode explores the importance of enacting laws and regulations to incentivize individuals, businesses, and governments to adopt sustainable practices. Tune in to learn more about the challenges posed by climate deniers and the actions needed to drive positive change for our planet. Link to article: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/article/2024/aug/05/climate-change-denial-congress Follow a career in conservation: https://www.conservation-careers.com/online-training/ 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: www.speakupforblue.com/oceanapp Sign up for our Newsletter: http://www.speakupforblue.com/newsletter Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3NmYvsI 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 Climate deniers in the US government are significantly impeding progress on climate action. The episode highlights how 123 elected officials in the US, including 100 members of the House of Representatives and 23 Senators, deny the existence of human-caused climate change. This denial is a major obstacle to enacting laws and regulations that would incentivize individuals, businesses, and governments to adopt eco-friendly solutions and renewable energy sources. The presence of climate deniers in the government is concerning, especially given the US's status as a superpower. These deniers not only reject the reality of climate change but also hinder efforts to address it effectively. The episode points out that these lawmakers have received a combined $52 million in campaign donations from the fossil fuel industry, which further influences their stance on climate issues. While the American public is increasingly recognizing the urgency of climate change, with fewer people rejecting climate science, the representation in the government does not reflect this shift. The discrepancy between public opinion and the views of elected officials underscores the need for change in leadership to align with the public's concerns about climate change. The episode emphasizes the importance of voting for candidates who prioritize climate action and are willing to take steps to combat climate change. It also discusses how the fossil fuel industry and its allies have used various messaging tactics to undermine concerns about climate change, including attacking renewable energy solutions and spreading misinformation about their environmental impact. Overall, the presence of climate deniers in the US government poses a significant challenge to advancing climate action and addressing the pressing issues related to climate change. It underscores the importance of electing officials who are committed to environmental protection and sustainability to drive meaningful progress in combating climate change. One of the key issues highlighted in the podcast episode is the disconnect between the American public's growing concern about climate change and the lack of representation of this sentiment in their elected representatives. The episode discusses how polls show that a significant proportion of Americans are now alarmed or concerned about climate change, with fewer than one in five people in the U.S. rejecting the findings of climate science. This shift in public opinion is significant, with more people recognizing the impacts of climate change on their lives and communities. However, the episode points out that this sentiment is not adequately reflected in the U.S. Congress. The transcript reveals that a quarter of U.S. lawmakers deny the climate crisis, with 123 elected officials, all Republicans, dismissing the existence of human-caused climate change. This discrepancy between the views of the American public and their representatives is concerning, especially given the power and influence the U.S. holds as a superpower. The episode emphasizes the importance of having elected officials who represent the values and concerns of their constituents. It highlights the need for politicians who acknowledge the reality of climate change and are willing to take action to address it. The podcast suggests that the current composition of climate-denying lawmakers in Congress, who have received significant campaign donations from the fossil fuel industry, is hindering progress on climate action. In conclusion, the episode underscores the urgency of aligning political representation with the public's increasing concern about climate change. ...
    Más Menos
    19 m
  • The Future of Sharks: How Climate Change Threatens Their Survival

    The Future of Sharks: How Climate Change Threatens Their Survival
    Aug 14 2024
    On this episode of the How to Protect the Ocean podcast, host Andrew Lewin delves into the importance of sharks in the ecosystem. With over 1,200 species of sharks, skates, chimeras, and stingrays, these fascinating creatures play a crucial role as predators in the food web. A recent study warns that without reducing climate change by 2100, newborn sharks may only have an 11% success rate of hatching. Tune in to learn why protecting sharks is vital for a healthy ocean ecosystem and what actions you can take to make a difference. Link to article: https://www.thecooldown.com/outdoors/shark-mortality-rates-embryo-survival-2100/ Follow a career in conservation: https://www.conservation-careers.com/online-training/ 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: www.speakupforblue.com/oceanapp Sign up for our Newsletter: http://www.speakupforblue.com/newsletter Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3NmYvsI 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 Climate change is significantly impacting the hatching success of shark embryos, as discussed in the podcast episode. The study highlighted in the episode revealed that if current fossil fuel consumption patterns persist, newborn sharks may only have an 11% success rate in hatching. This low hatching success rate poses a significant threat to shark populations, potentially leading to a decrease in their numbers in the future. The study focused on small spotted cat sharks and found that environmental changes, such as oceanic warming and acidification, were affecting their hatching success. The researchers stressed the importance of successful embryo hatching for population dynamics, especially for species like skates and sharks, which have slow life cycles and low hatching rates. The findings suggest that low hatching rates could be critical for population renewal, indicating a potential decline in shark populations if the current trend continues. The episode also explored the broader implications of climate change on ocean ecosystems, highlighting the impact of warmer ocean temperatures and increased acidity on marine life. These changes are not only affecting shark embryos but also other organisms with calcium-based shells, such as corals, mollusks, and crustaceans. The disruptions in habitats and food webs are ultimately threatening the overall health and biodiversity of marine ecosystems. To address the challenges posed by climate change on shark populations and marine ecosystems, the episode emphasized the importance of taking action to reduce carbon emissions and mitigate the impacts of climate change. It called for increased awareness, support for forward-thinking policies, and transitioning to cleaner technologies like electric vehicles and renewable energy sources. The urgency of addressing climate change to protect not only sharks but also the entire marine environment from further degradation was underscored. Warmer ocean temperatures and increased acidity are having detrimental effects on small-spotted cat sharks and other marine organisms with calcium-based shells. The episode highlights how extreme weather conditions, such as spikes in ocean temperature and increases in acidity, are impacting these species. The normal pH of the ocean is around 8.2 to 8.3, but as the pH decreases due to acidification, it becomes more acidic. This acidification leads to the dissolution of calcareous materials, affecting organisms like corals, mollusks, crustaceans, and sharks. The study mentioned in the episode found that the hatching success of embryos is crucial for population dynamics, especially for species like skates and sharks, which have slow life cycles. Low hatching rates could be critical for population renewal. In scenarios where ocean temperatures continue to rise and acidity increases, the survival rates of these organisms, including small-spotted cat sharks, are significantly reduced. For example, in the worst-case scenario of fossil-fueled development, only 11% of shark embryos were observed to hatch successfully. The implications of these findings are concerning not only for small-spotted cat sharks but also for other species that rely on calcium-based shells for survival. The decline in these organisms could disrupt marine ecosystems, affecting food webs, habitats, and overall biodiversity. To address these challenges, it is crucial to take action against climate change. This includes supporting forward-thinking policies, transitioning to cleaner technologies like electric vehicles and solar panels, and actively engaging with governments and non-profit organizations working towards reducing climate change impacts on marine life. Taking action against ...
    Más Menos
    15 m
  • Conservation through Animal Collaboration: Sea Lions Mapping Benthic Areas

    Conservation through Animal Collaboration: Sea Lions Mapping Benthic Areas
    Aug 12 2024
    On this episode of the How to Protect the Ocean podcast, we explore the innovative use of sea lions to map benthic habitats in Australian waters. Traditional methods of mapping underwater areas can be costly and challenging, but leveraging animals like sea lions offers a unique solution. Join host Andrew Lewin as we delve into the importance of mapping the ocean to better protect marine habitats and species. Tune in to learn more about this fascinating approach to ocean conservation! Link to article: https://phys.org/news/2024-08-scientists-equip-australian-sea-lions.html Follow a career in conservation: https://www.conservation-careers.com/online-training/ 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: www.speakupforblue.com/oceanapp Sign up for our Newsletter: http://www.speakupforblue.com/newsletter Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3NmYvsI 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 Using animals, such as sea lions, to map benthic habitats can be an effective and cost-efficient method for conservation and exploration. In a podcast episode, researchers in Australia discussed their successful use of camera tags on endangered sea lions to map benthic habitats in Southern Australia. By equipping the sea lions with small, lightweight cameras, researchers were able to track their movements and visually document the diverse benthic habitats they encountered. The data obtained from the animal-borne video and movement data provided critical information for mapping previously unmapped benthic habitats on the continental shelf. This method allowed researchers to cover over 5,000 square kilometers of seabed, offering valuable insights into the habitats used by the sea lions. The resulting videos from the camera tags enabled researchers to identify various benthic habitats, including macroalgae reef, macroalgae meadow, bare sand, sponge and sand habitats, invertebrate reefs, and invertebrate boulders. By leveraging the natural movements of these sea lions, researchers were able to gather data on a large scale without the need for expensive equipment like remotely operated vehicles or drones. This approach not only helped in mapping critical habitats for the endangered Australian sea lions but also had broader implications for surveying other marine species of interest. The cost-effectiveness and efficiency of using animals for mapping benthic habitats highlight the potential for this method to be a valuable tool in conservation and exploration efforts. The successful use of sea lions to map benthic habitats demonstrates an innovative and sustainable approach to gathering crucial data for conservation purposes. This method not only benefits the protection of endangered species but also contributes to a better understanding of marine ecosystems and habitats, paving the way for more effective conservation strategies in the future. Camera tags on animals, such as sea lions, have proven to be invaluable tools in gathering data on habitat use and movement patterns. In the podcast episode, researchers in Australia utilized camera tags on endangered sea lions to map benthic habitats in Southern Australia. By equipping the sea lions with small, lightweight cameras, researchers were able to track their movements and visually observe the different habitats they encountered. This innovative approach allowed for the mapping of over 5,000 square kilometers of seabed, providing critical information for the protection of the endangered Australian sea lions. The use of camera tags on animals not only aids in the conservation of specific species but also contributes to broader marine conservation efforts. By studying the habitat use and movement patterns of marine mammals like sea lions, researchers can gain insights into the diversity and distribution of benthic habitats. This information is essential for effective marine conservation planning, as it helps identify critical habitats for protection and informs management strategies for endangered species. The success of using camera tags on sea lions highlights the potential of this technology in advancing marine conservation efforts. By leveraging the natural movements of animals to gather data on underwater habitats, researchers can overcome the challenges associated with traditional mapping methods, such as the high cost of remotely operated vehicles and limited coverage of survey areas. The ability to visually observe and document habitat use through animal-borne cameras opens up new possibilities for studying and protecting marine ecosystems. Overall, the use of camera tags on animals like sea lions represents a promising approach to conservation biology. By harnessing the ...
    Más Menos
    15 m
  • Young Environmentalists Rally Behind Kamala Harris for President

    Young Environmentalists Rally Behind Kamala Harris for President
    Aug 9 2024
    Andrew Lewin discusses the contrasting approaches of the political parties towards climate change. Exploring the potential impact of the Inflation Reduction Act by President Biden and the environmental initiatives of P.P. Harris, the episode delves into the policy perspectives shaping environmental action. From rumors about Republicans' strategies to combat climate change to the implications for the environment, this episode provides insights into current political dynamics influencing ocean conservation efforts. Link to Article: https://www.nbcnews.com/science/environment/young-climate-activists-favor-harris-biden-environment-rcna163745?utm_medium=climate.tue.rd.20240806&utm_source=email&utm_content=article&utm_campaign=email-2022 Follow a career in conservation: https://www.conservation-careers.com/online-training/ 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: www.speakupforblue.com/oceanapp Sign up for our Newsletter: http://www.speakupforblue.com/newsletter Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3NmYvsI 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 Kamala Harris is gaining popularity among environmentalists as a more appealing candidate for the environment due to her track record of prosecuting oil companies and her co-sponsorship of the Green New Deal. Harris has a history of holding big oil companies accountable for their actions, securing settlements with Chevron, BP, and ConocoPhillips over their mishandling of hazardous materials. This proactive approach to environmental justice has resonated with many young voters and environmental organizations. Harris's stance on environmental issues, coupled with her willingness to take on polluters, has positioned her as a candidate unafraid to tackle environmental and climate policy at its root, especially in holding polluters accountable. This contrasts with a more moderate policy approach seen in other candidates, including President Biden. Harris's commitment to environmental justice and her past actions as a prosecutor have garnered support from organizations like the Sunrise Movement and the Green New Deal Network. Despite some shifts in her stance, such as no longer supporting a ban on fracking, Harris's overall environmental platform is viewed as more progressive than that of other candidates. Her emphasis on environmental policy and her history of standing up to big oil companies have energized the environmental community and provided hope for stronger environmental protections in the future. Young voters and environmental activists are increasingly seeking more aggressive action on climate change, recognizing the severity of the climate crisis. In a podcast episode, it was highlighted that many young environmentalists and organizations view Kamala Harris as a candidate willing to take bold steps in tackling environmental and climate policy. Harris has a track record of going after big oil companies as a prosecutor and co-sponsoring the Green New Deal as a senator, demonstrating her commitment to holding polluters accountable. The Sunrise Movement, a youth-led organization advocating for government intervention on climate change, endorsed Harris due to her history of holding big oil accountable for their actions. This endorsement signifies the support of young voters for Harris's approach to environmental issues. Additionally, Harris's early career work as a district attorney in San Francisco, where she created an environmental justice unit, further showcases her dedication to addressing environmental concerns. Furthermore, Harris's settlements with major oil companies like Chevron, BP, and ConocoPhillips over their mishandling of hazardous materials demonstrate her willingness to take legal action against polluters. This proactive stance resonates with young voters and environmental activists who are looking for leaders unafraid to challenge powerful industries and prioritize environmental protection. Overall, the episode emphasizes that Harris is perceived as a candidate who is not only willing but also capable of taking decisive action on climate change and environmental policy. Her track record of holding polluters accountable and advocating for environmental justice aligns with the desires of young voters and activists for more aggressive measures to combat the climate crisis. One key takeaway from the podcast episode is the shift towards a focus on policy, especially environmental policy, in the upcoming election. The discussion highlights how Kamala Harris is being seen as a more progressive candidate on environmental issues compared to Biden. Harris's track record of holding big oil companies accountable and her co-sponsorship of the Green New ...
    Más Menos
    19 m
  • Leticia Carvahlo -The New Leader of the International Seabed Authority: What it Means for Deep Sea Mining

    Leticia Carvahlo -The New Leader of the International Seabed Authority: What it Means for Deep Sea Mining
    Aug 7 2024
    Andrew Lewin discusses the recent election of Brazilian oceanographer Leticia Carvalho as the next Secretary General of the International Seabed Authority. Carvalho's victory could potentially impact the future of deep sea mining. Tune in to learn more about what this means for the ocean and how you can take action to support ocean conservation. Link to article: https://news.mongabay.com/2024/08/brazils-carvalho-to-lead-isa-following-predecessors-controversial-term/ Follow a career in conservation: https://www.conservation-careers.com/online-training/ 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: www.speakupforblue.com/oceanapp Sign up for our Newsletter: http://www.speakupforblue.com/newsletter Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3NmYvsI 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 Leticia Carvalho, a Brazilian oceanographer, has been elected as the next Secretary General of the International Seabed Authority (ISA), marking a significant shift in leadership for the organization. Carvalho's election brings a new era of transparency and accountability to the ISA, as she has emphasized the importance of these values in her campaign. With a background in oceanography and experience as an international civil servant for the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP), Carvalho is well-positioned to lead the ISA in a sustainable and responsible manner. As the first woman, first oceanographer, and first representative from Latin America to hold this position, Carvalho's election is a historic moment for the ISA. Under the previous leadership of Michael Lodge, concerns arose regarding transparency and neutrality within the ISA, particularly in relation to deep-sea mining activities. Lodge's tenure saw efforts to finalize the mining code for deep-sea exploration, but this was not achieved during his term. Allegations of advocating for mining companies and misusing agency funds further raised doubts about the ISA's commitment to marine environment protection. Carvalho's election signifies a move towards a more balanced approach to deep-sea mining, focusing on transparency, sustainability, and marine habitat preservation. Her dedication to upholding the ISA's mandate and promoting sound ocean governance, prioritizing the precautionary principle, sets a positive tone for future deep-sea mining regulation. As the ISA progresses under Carvalho's leadership, there is an opportunity to advocate for a new direction in deep-sea mining that considers the long-term health of the ocean and its benefits for future generations. Carvalho's election is a victory for those supporting responsible ocean management and establishes a foundation for a more inclusive and transparent decision-making process within the ISA. The push for deep-sea mining has raised significant concerns about transparency, environmental impacts, and the necessity for sustainable practices. Leticia Carvalho's recent election as the next Secretary General of the International Seabed Authority (ISA) underscores the importance of addressing these issues. Carvalho's victory over the previous Secretary General, Michael Lodge, who faced accusations of supporting mining companies and lacking transparency, signals a shift towards more accountable and environmentally conscious leadership within the ISA. Deep-sea mining is a contentious issue involving the extraction of seabed minerals for various purposes, including addressing metal shortages and providing materials for renewable energy technologies like electric car batteries. While proponents argue for the essential nature of these minerals for technological progress, critics warn of potential irreparable damage to the seabed and marine environment. The lack of understanding regarding the impacts of deep-sea mining, such as disruption to oxygen production and biodiversity in deep-sea habitats, underscores the need for caution and comprehensive regulation. The ISA, as the governing body overseeing deep-sea mining activities, plays a crucial role in ensuring that mining operations are conducted sustainably and transparently. Carvalho's focus on transparency and commitment to upholding the ISA's mandate to protect the ocean and marine habitats signal a positive step towards responsible deep-sea mining practices. The ISA's role in balancing the interests of mining companies, environmental conservation, and the well-being of future generations underscores the complexity of the issue and the importance of thorough deliberation and regulation before granting exploitation licenses. The concerns surrounding deep-sea mining echo past environmental challenges, such as the negative impacts of fossil fuel extraction and land-based...
    Más Menos
    14 m
  • Navigating Climate Change and Politics: A Conversation with Janelle Kellman

    Navigating Climate Change and Politics: A Conversation with Janelle Kellman
    Aug 5 2024
    This 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/ Follow a career in conservation: https://www.conservation-careers.com/online-training/ 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: www.speakupforblue.com/oceanapp Sign up for our Newsletter: http://www.speakupforblue.com/newsletter Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3NmYvsI 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...
    Más Menos
    54 m
  • Deep Sea Mining: Time for a leadership change

    Deep Sea Mining: Time for a leadership change
    Aug 2 2024
    On today's episode of the How to Protect the Ocean podcast, the focus is on deep-sea mining and the leadership of the International Seabed Authority (ISA). The episode discusses the recent developments and different countries' stances on deep-sea mining, with some advocating for a moratorium and others taking a precautionary pause. Please tune in to learn more about the current state of deep-sea mining and the push for a leadership change to steer it in a direction that aligns with the desires of many. Link to articles: 1) https://amp-theguardian-com.cdn.ampproject.org/c/s/amp.theguardian.com/environment/article/2024/jul/29/inside-the-battle-for-top-job-that-will-decide-the-future-of-deep-sea-mining 2) https://deep-sea-conservation.org/solutions/no-deep-sea-mining/ Follow a career in conservation: https://www.conservation-careers.com/online-training/ 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: www.speakupforblue.com/oceanapp Sign up for our Newsletter: http://www.speakupforblue.com/newsletter Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3NmYvsI 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 The leadership of the International Seabed Authority (ISA) is currently under scrutiny and potential change due to concerns about trust and transparency. The current leader, Lodge, has been accused of being too closely aligned with the mining industry, lacking transparency, and advocating for the acceleration of deep-sea mining activities. This has resulted in a lack of trust among member states and a division of views within the Council. Leticia Carvalho, sponsored by the Brazilian government, is a candidate for leadership, emphasizing the need for meaningful transformation within the ISA. She stresses the importance of trust and strong leadership within the organization, especially given the ISA's dual mandate to authorize and regulate mining for the common heritage of all mankind while safeguarding marine environments from harmful impacts. The potential change in leadership comes at a critical juncture for deep-sea mining and the future of the world's oceans. The decision on the new leader could have significant implications for the emerging industry and the approach taken towards deep-sea mining. Carvalho's background as an oceanographer and international diplomat, coupled with her focus on a precautionary approach and transparency, contrasts with the concerns raised about Lodge's leadership. The controversy surrounding the leadership of the ISA reflects broader concerns about the trajectory of deep-sea mining and the necessity for responsible and sustainable practices. The choice of the new leader will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of deep-sea mining and its impact on marine ecosystems. Trust and transparency are essential components in ensuring that decisions made by the ISA align with the objective of safeguarding the ocean for future generations. The debate surrounding deep-sea mining, as discussed in the podcast episode, underscores the critical need for a precautionary approach to protect the marine environment and deep-sea ecosystems. The ISA's role in authorizing and regulating mining activities while aiming to shield the marine environment from harmful impacts is crucial. However, concerns have been raised about the current leadership of the ISA, with allegations of a lack of transparency and potential bias towards the mining industry. The episode highlights the contrasting views within the ISA, with some countries advocating for a moratorium or precautionary pause on deep-sea mining due to uncertainties and potential risks. The discovery of dark oxygen in the deep sea further emphasizes the importance of conducting thorough research and understanding the ecosystem before engaging in mining activities. The push by certain countries and mining companies to expedite deep-sea mining without established rules and regulations raises significant concerns. The lack of transparency in decision-making processes and potential conflicts of interest further underscore the need for a precautionary approach. Leticia Carvalho, a Brazilian oceanographer and diplomat, has emerged as a candidate for leadership within the ISA, advocating for meaningful transformation and addressing the lack of trust and leadership within the organization. Carvalho's emphasis on the importance of thorough rule development and the necessity of completing regulations before approving any mining applications aligns with the precautionary approach needed to protect deep-sea ecosystems. In conclusion, the debate surrounding deep-sea mining highlights the importance of adopting a precautionary approach to ensure the long-term sustainability and...
    Más Menos
    23 m
  • The Dark Oxygen Discovery: A Game Changer for Deep Sea Mining?

    The Dark Oxygen Discovery: A Game Changer for Deep Sea Mining?
    Jul 31 2024
    Andrew Lewin dives into the controversial topic of deep-sea mining and its implications for the environment. He questions whether mining the deep sea for metals to create electric vehicle batteries truly benefits the planet or if there are better alternatives. The discussion raises concerns about the potential impact on the ocean and the need to explore alternative solutions for a sustainable future. Link to article: https://www.sciencealert.com/mysterious-dark-oxygen-discovered-at-bottom-of-ocean-stuns-scientists Follow a career in conservation: https://www.conservation-careers.com/online-training/ 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: www.speakupforblue.com/oceanapp Sign up for our Newsletter: http://www.speakupforblue.com/newsletter Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3NmYvsI 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 Deep sea nodules, highly sought after for mining due to their valuable metal content, have recently been discovered to play a crucial role in oxygen production in the deep sea. Composed of cobalt, manganese, and nickel, these nodules form a polymetallic matrix that can generate a significant voltage when clustered together. This voltage is essential for splitting oxygen from water, a process that typically requires light for photosynthesis to occur. However, in the dark depths of the deep sea where light does not penetrate, these nodules serve as natural geobatteries, generating the necessary voltage to produce oxygen. The discovery of oxygen production by deep sea nodules challenges the conventional wisdom surrounding deep sea mining. While deep sea mining has been promoted as a means to extract valuable metals for various industries, the potential impact on oxygen production in the deep sea raises significant concerns. The presence of these nodules not only supports diverse ecosystems but also contributes to the geochemical processes that sustain life in the deep sea. The revelation that deep sea nodules are involved in oxygen production underscores the complexity of deep sea ecosystems and the interconnectedness of marine life. The implications of deep sea mining on oxygen production and ecosystem health must be carefully considered in light of this new information. The balance between economic interests and environmental conservation becomes even more delicate when the fundamental role of these nodules in oxygen production is taken into account. This discovery prompts a reevaluation of the necessity and sustainability of deep sea mining practices. It raises questions about the long-term consequences of extracting nodules from their natural habitat and the potential disruption to oxygen production and deep sea ecosystems. As we continue to explore and understand the deep sea, it is essential to prioritize the protection of these vital ecosystems and consider alternative approaches to resource extraction that minimize harm to the environment. The discovery of "dark oxygen" in the deep sea, as discussed in the podcast episode, has significant implications for the ongoing debate surrounding deep-sea mining. The revelation that certain nodules sought after for mining are actually contributing to oxygen production in the deep sea challenges the perceived necessity of deep-sea mining for metals like cobalt, manganese, and nickel. The presence of these nodules, which create a polymetallic matrix capable of producing oxygen, raises questions about the trade-off between resource extraction and environmental conservation. Deep sea mining companies have invested substantial resources in developing technologies to extract these nodules efficiently. However, the newfound understanding of the role of these nodules in oxygen production highlights the potential consequences of disrupting deep-sea habitats for mining purposes. The episode emphasizes the importance of considering the impact of deep-sea mining on biodiversity and ecosystem functioning. Areas rich in these nodules exhibit higher biodiversity levels compared to mined regions, indicating the potential ecological harm caused by mining activities. The interconnected nature of deep-sea ecosystems underscores the need to evaluate the long-term effects of deep-sea mining on species dispersal and habitat connectivity. Furthermore, the discovery of "dark oxygen" challenges the traditional understanding of oxygen production in the absence of sunlight. This raises questions about the origins of aerobic life and the evolution of complex organisms in oxygen-deprived environments. The implications of disrupting the natural processes that contribute to oxygen production in the deep sea underscore the need for a more comprehensive assessment of ...
    Más Menos
    13 m