Podcast Summary
Expert Insights on the State of Our Oceans: Marine biologist and policy strategist Dr. Ayanna Elizabeth Johnson discusses the critical state of our oceans, her work with governments and communities, and the importance of coral reefs and addressing plastic pollution.
Our oceans are in a critical state, but there are experts working to make a difference. In this episode of Ologies, Alie Ward interviews Dr. Ayanna Elizabeth Johnson, a marine biologist and policy strategist, about the current state of our oceans and what we can do to help. Dr. Johnson shares her passion for the ocean, her experiences working with governments and communities, and her insights on the importance of coral reefs and the impact of plastic pollution. While the episode acknowledges the challenges facing our oceans, it also highlights the hope and progress being made. If you want to support the podcast and learn more about the ocean, consider becoming a patron, leaving a review, or checking out the merchandise at ologiesmerch.com.
Ayanna's Passion for Ocean Conservation: Ocean conservationist Ayanna, inspired by childhood experience, pursued education and founded Ocean Collective to understand, preserve ocean through science, policy, and communications.
Ayanna, an ocean conservationist and founder of Ocean Collective, has dedicated her life to understanding and preserving the ocean, with a focus on the interconnectedness of science, policy, and communications. Her passion for the ocean began at a young age during a family vacation in the Florida Keys, where she experienced a coral reef for the first time. Since then, she has pursued education in environmental science and public policy, as well as marine biology, to gain a holistic understanding of ocean conservation. Ayanna's work involves both field research and policy strategy, and she leads a team of experts at Ocean Collective to help other organizations amplify their conservation efforts. Her ultimate goal is to shift human relationship with the ocean to address the challenges caused by human activities. She believes that by highlighting the good things about the ocean and working together, we can make a positive impact.
Focusing on reducing bycatch through simple solutions: Understanding fishermen's needs and involving them in sustainable practices can effectively reduce bycatch and preserve ocean ecosystems
While overfishing and unsustainable fishing practices are significant issues in the seafood industry, focusing on reducing bycatch through simple, low-tech solutions can make a big difference. Researcher Ayanna McClure's work in Curacao, for example, showed that allowing small fish to escape from fish traps without affecting fishermen's income is a practical and effective solution. However, Ayanna also emphasizes that it's not just about the fish. It's about understanding the needs and motivations of fishermen and coastal communities and involving them in the process of implementing sustainable practices. By shifting the focus from the fish to the people, we can make a more significant impact on preserving ocean ecosystems.
The ocean is one interconnected system with different zones and unique properties: The ocean, covering 97% of Earth's surface, is a complex system with diverse zones, unique properties, and significant impacts on climate
The ocean, which we often think of as a collection of separate bodies of water like the Caribbean Sea or the Mediterranean Sea, is actually one interconnected system. This system is made up of different zones based on temperature and sunlight, with the shallow epipelagic zone being home to most ocean life and the deep hadal zones being the least explored. The ocean covers 97% of the Earth's surface and is salty due to the erosion of land and the effects of evaporation and temperature. The ocean's unique properties, such as its salinity and temperature gradients, create currents and layers that can have significant impacts on the planet's climate. So, while we may enjoy the shallow waters and the treasures they hold, it's important to remember that our actions affect the entire ocean system.
The Pacific Ocean: Calmer than Perceived, Rich in Marine Life: The Pacific Ocean, though known for its calmness, is a diverse marine habitat with options for exploration beyond scuba diving, such as snorkeling. Its unique blue color and variable shallow water hues add to its allure.
The Pacific Ocean, which is often perceived as calm due to its name, is not entirely tranquil, but it does have calmer regions called the doldrums. Portuguese explorer Magellan named the Pacific after experiencing its comparatively calm waters after the turbulent conditions in the Atlantic. The Pacific is home to diverse marine life, and while scuba diving is a popular way to explore it, snorkeling is also an underrated option to discover the underwater world from the surface or shallow waters. The ocean's blue color is due to the absorption of redder wavelengths and the reflection of shorter, bluer wavelengths. Interestingly, the color of shallow water can vary depending on the bottom composition, with white sand producing bright turquoise hues. Additionally, the speaker, an oceanologist, prefers silence when relaxing and values the importance of learning about the ocean from various perspectives, whether through scientific research or casual exploration.
Parrotfish: Essential 'Sandpoopers' of Coral Reefs: Parrotfish maintain coral reef health by scraping algae and turning dead coral into sand, contributing to beach formation. Their role is crucial due to increasing pollution, and efforts are made to protect them.
Parrotfish play a crucial role in maintaining the health of coral reefs by scraping algae and turning dead coral and rocks into sand through their digestive process. This sand contributes significantly to the formation of many beaches around the world. With increasing algae growth due to human pollution, the importance of parrotfish in keeping coral reefs balanced and thriving is more vital than ever. Efforts are being made globally to protect these vital "sandpoopers" and ensure the continued existence of these essential ecosystems. The clarity of the ocean and its beauty is another source of wonder and inspiration, as described by the speaker in terms of a movie, book, or personal experience. The speaker also shared her upcoming children's book project about a young girl's love for the ocean and her desire to save it.
Human activities harming the ocean's health: The ocean's health is under threat due to pollution, acidification, warming, overfishing, and unsustainable fishing practices. We can help by supporting sustainable practices, reducing waste, and advocating for conservation.
The state of the ocean is in a dire situation due to human activities. The ocean's chemistry is being altered through pollution and acidification, making it difficult for many marine organisms to survive. The warming of the ocean and overfishing are also major concerns, with many fish populations either fully exploited or overfished. Additionally, unsustainable fishing practices, such as those used for shrimp, are destroying habitats and wasting resources. It's important to note that these issues are not only affecting marine life, but also have far-reaching consequences for human communities that rely on the ocean for food and livelihoods. The situation is grim, but it's not too late to take action and make a difference. By supporting sustainable fishing practices, reducing plastic waste, and advocating for ocean conservation, we can help preserve the ocean for future generations.
Environmental and ethical concerns with mass-produced shrimp farming: Mass-produced shrimp farming in Southeast Asia destroys mangrove forests, pollutes water with antibiotics and chemicals, and involves reports of slave labor. Sustainable, domestic options are available but cost more.
The mass production of farmed shrimp, particularly in Southeast Asia, comes with significant environmental and ethical concerns. The bulldozing of mangrove forests for shrimp ponds destroys essential nursery habitats and protective barriers against storms. Moreover, high-density farming practices lead to the use of antibiotics and chemicals, polluting both the water and the food chain. Additionally, there have been reports of slave labor in shrimp peeling industries. Consumers can opt for domestic, sustainably-farmed shrimp, but it will cost more. Traditions and practices that were sustainable in the past may no longer be viable as the human population grows and puts increasing pressure on the ocean. The ocean's health is interconnected with our actions on land, and it's crucial to be more mindful of our relationship with the ocean and make necessary adaptations for sustainable seafood.
Prevent Plastic from Entering the Ocean: Focus on stopping plastic from entering the ocean instead of just cleaning it up, by targeting corporate and governmental change to improve manufacturing processes and recycling capacity
While it's important to take action against ocean pollution through initiatives like beach cleanups, the focus should primarily be on preventing plastic from entering the ocean in the first place. The ocean's current state is a cause for concern, with an estimated 1 ton of plastic being added every 4 seconds. To make a significant impact, efforts should be directed towards corporate and governmental change, such as improving manufacturing processes and recycling capacity. While beach cleanups are valuable for raising awareness and building community, they alone are not enough to solve the issue. Additionally, the ocean's vast size and complex challenges make ocean cleanups a daunting task. Therefore, it's crucial to address the source of the problem rather than just its symptoms.
Not All Plastics Can Be Recycled: While some plastics labeled 1 and 2 can be recycled, others like 3, 6, and 7 often cannot. Chemicals in some plastics like BPAs pose health concerns. Kenya, Rwanda, Costa Rica, and the EU have banned single-use plastics, and larger policy changes can significantly reduce marine plastic debris.
While some plastics, like those labeled with the number 1 (PET or PETE) and 2 (HDPE), can be recycled, others, such as those labeled with 3, 6, and 7, often cannot. Plastics labeled with 4 and 5 may have a chance, but it depends on the specific type and local recycling programs. The presence of chemicals like BPAs in some plastics can also pose health concerns. However, there is hope as more countries and organizations commit to reducing ocean plastic pollution through initiatives like the Clean Seas Initiative and bans on single-use plastics. For instance, Kenya, Rwanda, Costa Rica, and the EU have taken significant steps in this direction. While individual actions like refusing plastic straws and bags are important, larger policy changes can have a more significant impact on marine plastic debris. The Ocean Conservancy reports that plastic straws and cigarette butts are among the top items found in beach cleanups, with cigarette butts being the number one item by count.
Cigarette butts and plastic straws harm the environment: Avoid plastic straws and properly dispose of cigarette butts to reduce ocean pollution. Businesses can also reduce plastic use and waste.
Both cigarette butts and plastic straws contribute significantly to environmental pollution, particularly in the ocean. Cigarette butts contain toxic chemicals and should not be carelessly discarded, while plastic straws are often unnecessary and contribute to the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. This patch is a real problem caused by ocean currents that collect plastic waste, most of which is in small pieces. Instead of using plastic straws, it's better to avoid them altogether, and for those who need them, reusable alternatives are available. Additionally, individual actions, such as asking for no straws when ordering to-go drinks, can make a difference. However, it's not just about individual responsibility; businesses should also make efforts to reduce plastic use and waste. For instance, they could ask customers if they need a straw or lid before providing one, or offer paper cups instead. By making these small changes, we can collectively reduce the amount of plastic waste that ends up in our oceans.
Addressing the vast ocean plastic waste problem: Focus on multiple fronts: lobby for policy changes, alter individual behaviors, and support conservation groups. Consider low-tech, locally-focused initiatives like 'Mr. Trash Wheel' to prevent pollution at the source.
The ocean's plastic waste problem is vast and complex, with large concentrations of plastic, often referred to as "garbage patches," found in every major ocean gyre. These patches, which include the infamous Great Pacific Garbage Patch, are not islands but rather diffuse areas of high plastic concentration. To address this issue, we need to take action on multiple fronts, including lobbying for corporate and government policy changes, altering our individual behaviors, and supporting conservation groups. One promising solution is the use of low-tech, locally-focused initiatives like the "Mr. Trash Wheel" system, which prevents pollution from reaching the ocean by collecting it at the source. By focusing on these solutions and raising awareness, we can make a significant impact on reducing plastic waste in our oceans.
Preserving the Ocean: Simple Changes Make a Big Difference: Support initiatives to ban harmful sunscreens, reduce plastic use, and make eco-friendly choices to help preserve the ocean and its ecosystems. The ocean's health is crucial for our own survival.
We can make a difference in preserving the ocean and its ecosystems by making simple changes in our daily lives, such as using mineral sunscreens and reducing our use of plastic. Climate change poses a significant threat to the ocean and ultimately to our survival. The ocean, while resilient, cannot thrive without our help. For those interested in marine biology or science policy, there are various paths to get involved in this field. Hawaii is leading the way in banning harmful sunscreens, and individuals can make a difference by supporting such initiatives and making eco-friendly choices. The ocean's health is closely tied to our own, so it's essential to take action to protect it. Additionally, some fascinating facts about the ocean include the size of whale penises and the unique mating habits of barnacles.
Contribute to ocean conservation in various ways: Find your passion and use it to make a difference for the ocean through organizations or personal actions, such as reducing plastic use or voting for eco-friendly policies.
There are numerous ways to contribute to ocean conservation, regardless of your interests or skills. Whether you're passionate about art, science, law, communications, or simply want to make a difference in your daily life, there are opportunities for you to get involved. Organizations like the Ocean Conservancy, Oceana, and World Wildlife Fund have various roles, from policy experts to social media managers, and even caterers. For individuals, simple actions like reducing single-use plastic, voting for environmentally-conscious politicians, and educating yourself on ocean issues can make a significant impact. The key is to find what you're good at and use it to make a difference for the ocean.
Protecting the Ocean through Political Engagement and Sustainable Seafood Choices: Political engagement and sustainable seafood choices are key to protecting the ocean from overfishing, climate change, and plastic waste. Choose options like farmed shellfish, seaweed, and small, quickly reproducing fish, and use resources like the Monterey Bay Aquarium seafood watch app to make informed decisions.
Political engagement is crucial in protecting the ocean and sustainable seafood choices are essential. Overfishing is a pressing issue that requires collective action through legislation and individual decisions. The ocean ecosystem is under threat due to climate change, plastic waste, and unsustainable practices in the seafood industry. However, there are ways to make a difference. First, political engagement is essential to ensure that laws protect the ocean and prevent overfishing. Individuals can also make a difference by choosing sustainable seafood options, reducing plastic use, and supporting ocean-friendly resorts and businesses. Sustainable seafood choices include farmed shellfish, seaweed, and small, quickly reproducing fish like sardines and anchovies. Aquaculture is becoming more sustainable with integrated farming and vertical ocean farming practices. Additionally, individuals can get informed, donate to ocean causes, clean up the coast, and spread the word about sustainable practices. The Monterey Bay Aquarium seafood watch app is a helpful resource for making sustainable seafood choices. Lastly, it's important to remember that we cannot rely on wild animals from the ocean as our primary source of protein. Instead, we should adopt a mindset of sustainability and choose options that have a lower impact on the ocean ecosystem.
The importance of understanding the value of seafood: Government subsidies keep seafood affordable, but the true value is often overlooked, emphasizing the need for sustainable fishing practices.
The affordability of seafood, despite its potential rarity, is largely due to heavy government subsidies. This disconnect between the actual value and price of seafood makes it difficult for people to fully grasp the importance of sustainable fishing practices. In my job as a marine biologist, I'm constantly battling an endless stream of emails, but the joy I get from witnessing people's engagement and understanding of ocean ecosystems makes it all worthwhile. The shift from viewing the ocean as something to exploit to a responsibility to protect is crucial. You can find more of my work and ocean-related jokes on The Ocean Collective's website and my personal social media accounts, Ayanna Eliza on Twitter and Ayanna.Elizabeth on Instagram. The online ocean community is a unique aspect of my job, filled with nerdy puns and passionate individuals. Although I don't often use them in my professional emails, I do appreciate the humor they bring. I'm excited for the release of my upcoming book and am grateful for your support and questions. Let's continue the conversation about the importance of ocean conservation.
Empowering yourself to make a difference for the ocean and marine life: Educate yourself, engage with your community, support ocean causes, and broaden your horizons through learning
We all have the power to make a difference for the ocean and marine life. You can start by educating yourself through resources like Doctor Ayanna Johnson's TED Talk and Ocean Collective. Engage with your community by participating in beach or river cleanups, donating to ocean charities, or reducing plastic use. Support the Ologies podcast by becoming a patron, purchasing merchandise, or joining the Facebook group. And don't forget, even something as simple as taking a Harry Potter house quiz can lead to self-discovery and a sense of belonging. Together, we can all make a positive impact on the world, one choice at a time. Remember, when faced with challenges, just keep swimming. Explore various fields of study like pachydermatology, symbiology, cryptozoology, lithology, and nanotechnology to broaden your horizons. And most importantly, never stop learning and growing.