Speak Up For The Ocean Blue

Seamounts are underwater mountains that rise at least 1,000 meters from the seafloor without breaking the surface, and they punch far above their weight biologically. Topographic upwelling pulls cold, nutrient-rich water up their slopes, fueling plankton blooms that draw fish, sharks, seabirds, and marine mammals, while their rocky surfaces give slow-growing corals and sponges a rare hard place to root in an otherwise soft-sediment deep sea. Roughly one in five seamount species are endemic, found nowhere else on Earth, which is why scientists call them oases in the deep sea. That's exactly what made a pair of Australian studies so consequential. In 1997, researchers led by Tony Koslow and Karen Gowlett-Holmes of CSIRO Marine Research surveyed seamounts south of Tasmania to test whether bottom trawling for orange roughy was damaging habitat that had taken centuries to form, and whether a proposed marine reserve would actually protect it. What they found on heavily fished seamounts, compared to lightly fished or untouched ones, was stark: stripped reef, collapsed biomass, and far fewer species per sample. A 2009 follow-up study by Althaus and colleagues went further, analyzing tens of thousands of video frames and photos across 25 seamounts, and found coral cover reduced by roughly two orders of magnitude on trawled sites, with no sign of recovery even five years after trawling stopped. Those findings are part of what pushed Matthew Gianni, a former deep-sea fisherman, to help found the Deep Sea Conservation Coalition and push for international protections against high seas bottom trawling. This episode walks through what seamounts are, what the research actually found, and why damage this far down might be effectively permanent on any timescale that matters to us. Takeaways: Seamounts are volcanic underwater mountains that drive upwelling, concentrate biodiversity, and host high rates of endemic species found nowhere else. Bottom trawling for species like orange roughy drags heavy gear across seamount slopes, destroying coral and sponge habitat that can take centuries to build. A 1997 CSIRO-led survey south of Tasmania found dramatically lower biomass and species richness on heavily trawled seamounts compared to lightly fished or untouched ones. A 2009 follow-up study found roughly a hundredfold decline in coral cover on trawled seamounts, with no clear sign of recovery five years after trawling stopped. Because this damage happens far below the surface and outside any sunlight or recreational diving range, it's often invisible until a dedicated scientific survey documents it. This research helped inspire the founding of the Deep Sea Conservation Coalition and international efforts to restrict high seas bottom trawling. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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  

Before he ever sat across a table from UN delegates, Matthew Gianni spent 10 years working as a commercial fisherman up and down both US coasts. Gillnetting for Spanish and king mackerel in Florida. Bottom trawling off central California, New England, and Florida for sole, redfish, hake, sablefish, shrimp, and other groundfish. Hook-and-lining for salmon and albacore tuna in Oregon and California. Running pots for Dungeness crab and dredging for deep sea scallops on Georges Bank. In today's episode, I trace how that decade on deck, watching coral and glass sponges get shoveled back overboard from trawls that dragged the seafloor a thousand meters down, planted the seed for a career that would eventually take him to the UN General Assembly. Two fights as a working fisherman pushed Matthew toward advocacy. First, he helped organize fellow fishermen to halt a $110 million plan to dump San Francisco Bay dredge spoils directly onto prime fishing grounds off the Southern California coast, a fight that eventually moved the disposal site off the continental shelf. Second, he represented the fishing industry in efforts to block new offshore oil and gas leases along the central California coast. Both wins showed him what organized advocacy could accomplish, and they set him on a path toward Greenpeace International, where he helped launch the international fisheries campaign, worked on the UN's 1991-1992 moratorium on high seas driftnet fishing [VERIFY dates], and eventually ran Greenpeace's global Ocean Program from Amsterdam. In the early 2000s, Matthew co-founded the Deep Sea Conservation Coalition, an international coalition of organizations working to protect deep sea biodiversity from harmful activities, where he now serves as political and policy advisor. What started as a fight against deep sea bottom trawling on seamounts has, since 2014, expanded to include deep sea mining, an industry Matthew argues is moving to tear into the seabed before scientists even have a baseline understanding of what lives there. This is the first episode in a week-long series on the deep sea, building toward my full interview with Matthew, airing Friday. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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  

Science communication has a blind spot: it keeps putting the same faces in front of the microphone. In this episode, Andrew talks with Amy Weldon, host and executive producer of the podcast Blue Collar White Coat, about why she built an entire show around the people science coverage usually skips. Amy spent 15 years in science communications, starting at the National Aquarium in Baltimore, and now uses that background to track down the electricians, dive supervisors, ship repair technicians, and life-support operators who keep ocean and space research running. The conversation covers why Amy chose podcasting over blogging or short-form video to reach people who aren't already interested in science, what changed between her first and second season of guest outreach, and how she gets nervous first-time interviewees comfortable enough to open up. Andrew and Amy also compare notes on the mechanics of podcasting itself: editing habits, the reality of "pod fade," and what Joe Rogan's career actually teaches other podcasters (hint: it's not SEO). They close with a preview of Amy's stacked second season lineup and a shared preview of November's International Marine Conservation Congress in Edinburgh. If you've ever wondered who actually keeps a NASA clean room running, or why the person who cleans your aquarium's fish tanks might have a better story than the PhD next to them, this episode is for you. Check out the podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@BlueCollarWhiteCoat Takeaways: Amy Weldon built Blue Collar White Coat to interview the people who make science and conservation possible without holding a PhD themselves — electricians, dive supervisors, ship repair techs, aquarium life-support staff. Podcasting appealed to Amy because it reaches audiences who aren't already interested in science, the way radio once did across demographics. The hardest part of running an interview podcast is logistics and scheduling, not content; the easiest part is that people are eager to talk once you make it easy for them. Pre-interview calls and sending questions in advance dramatically lowers guest anxiety, especially for first-time interviewees unused to a microphone. Season two of Blue Collar White Coat leans further into skilled trades, featuring NASA facilities staff, three different aquariums, and a Norfolk, Virginia naval ship repair yard. Andrew and Amy will both present at the International Marine Conservation Congress (IMCC8) in Edinburgh, Scotland this November. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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    

YouTube has quietly become one of the best platforms for ocean science communication, and in this episode Andrew breaks down exactly why. Fresh off yesterday's 2,000-episode milestone and the new Pisces Oceans licensing agreement, Andrew explains why he's diving back into YouTube after stepping away last spring, including the launch of a brand new daily show, Ocean Decoded Live. Andrew walks through his own history with video, from the early days of Speak Up for Blue TV through burnout, a rebrand, and now a fresh start under Ocean Decoded. He breaks down why YouTube's search-driven discovery beats subscriber-driven platforms for reaching new audiences, how B-roll and AI-assisted visuals solve the storytelling limits of audio-only podcasting, and why going live and unscripted brings back an authenticity that AI-written scripts were starting to erode. The episode closes with a practical look at YouTube's two-tier Partner Program, how the ad revenue and fan-funding splits actually work, and two real-world case studies in ocean science: Kristian Parton's Shark Bytes channel and KPassionate's marine mammal content. Andrew also previews tomorrow's interview with Amy Weldon of Blue Collar White Coats and shares where you can catch him talking workflow at IMCC8 in Edinburgh this November. Takeaways: YouTube is search-driven rather than subscriber-driven, which makes it a strong discovery platform for niche science content Andrew is relaunching Ocean Decoded Live, a Monday–Thursday livestream (expanding toward Friday) at 4 PM Eastern covering ocean news YouTube's Partner Program has two tiers: 500 subscribers unlocks fan funding (memberships, Super Chats), 1,000 subscribers plus 4,000 watch hours or 10 million Shorts views in 90 days unlocks full ad revenue Standard ad revenue splits 55% creator / 45% YouTube; Super Chats, Super Stickers, and memberships split 70% creator / 30% YouTube Going unscripted and live restores authenticity that Andrew felt was eroding when he leaned too heavily on AI-written scripts Kristian Parton's Shark Bytes and KPassionate are cited as examples of ocean science creators building sustainable income on YouTube Andrew will be discussing content workflow at IMCC8 in Edinburgh, Scotland, November 13–17, 2026 Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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  

Today marks episode 2000 of How to Protect the Ocean, and Andrew is taking a break from the usual format to look back at how this show came to be. From an accidental start in 2010 to a name change driven by search engine optimization, to over 3 million downloads across 11 years, this episode traces the full arc of the podcast's history. Andrew also opens up about how podcasting reshaped his career. What started as a side project outside of work hours led to TV documentary appearances, podcast hosting offers including a multi-year run on the Toronto Zoo podcast, and eventually the job offer that became his dream role. Along the way, he helped launch an estimated 20 to 25 other podcasts, including Beyond Jaws, the shark science show he co-hosts with Dr. David Ebert. The biggest news of the episode is the announcement that How to Protect the Ocean is now officially licensed to Pisces Oceans, the same organization where Andrew now works as their ocean communications manager. He explains why this partnership matters, what it means for the quality of future episodes, and how it sets up a bigger ocean impact going forward, including the launch of new shows across the Pisces podcast network. Takeaways: How to Protect the Ocean began as Speak Up for Blue in 2010, later became Speak Up for the Ocean Blue for SEO reasons, before settling on its current name The show has generated an estimated 3 million downloads over 11 years of consistent publishing Andrew has helped launch an estimated 20 to 25 podcasts, including Beyond Jaws with Dr. David Ebert Podcasting led to TV documentary appearances, podcast hosting offers, and ultimately Andrew's current role at Pisces Oceans How to Protect the Ocean is now officially licensed to Pisces Oceans, with the goal of improving show quality and increasing ocean impact The Pisces network is expanding to include Ocean Leaders podcast and Polar Bears and Flip Flops with Angelo Villagomez [VERIFY] Ocean Decoded Live continues weekdays at 4 pm Eastern on YouTube Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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  

Podcasting has been part of Andrew Lewin's life for 11 years, and in this episode he explains why he thinks more people working in ocean science and conservation should be doing it too. He walks through what makes long-form audio and video different from the short clips discussed in yesterday's episode: the ability to sit with complex topics, tell a full story, and reach an audience that's multitasking, whether they're walking the dog, working out, or gardening while listening. Andrew gets specific about what podcasting actually requires. He covers how titles and the first several seconds of an episode function as the hook, why podcast search and discovery lag behind YouTube's, and why algorithms on platforms like Spotify and Apple Podcasts make organic growth slow. He's also direct about monetization: there's no creator fund, sponsorships have to fit your brand, and building a loyal audience takes years, not weeks. (Note: the specific reach and market-size figures cited in this episode should be verified before publishing.) The throughline is that podcasting isn't a shortcut to reach or income. It's a long game that builds authority, opens doors, and gives ocean science a format built for depth. Andrew shares how the show helped him land his role at Pisces Oceans, and closes with practical advice for anyone considering starting a show: listen first, differentiate your angle, and don't worry about equipment before you worry about your message. Takeaways: Long-form podcasting allows for depth and storytelling that short-form content can't accommodate Titles and the opening hook (roughly the first 10 seconds) heavily influence whether a new listener stays Podcast discovery and algorithms lag behind YouTube's searchability Monetization in podcasting is slower and less structured than other content platforms; sponsorships need to align with your brand values Building a loyal, engaged audience takes years of consistency, not virality Differentiating your podcast's angle matters more than competing head-on with existing shows in your niche Equipment is a secondary concern; message clarity comes first Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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  

This week on the How to Protect the Ocean podcast, Andrew kicks off a science communication series exploring how ocean advocates can spread awareness across every major content format. Today's episode digs into short-form video: TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts, and what it actually takes to make original content work when you're used to talking for an hour, not ninety seconds. Andrew is candid about his own struggle with the format, since most of his short-form output today is repurposed podcast clips rather than content built for the platform from the ground up. The conversation covers what separates a scroll-stopping short from one that gets skipped: a hook in the first one to three seconds, one idea per video, native casual style over polished production, readable captions, and consistency over perfection. Andrew points to Christian Parton's Shark Bites and KPassionate as creators doing this well across YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and Twitch, and explains how the algorithm on platforms like TikTok now prioritizes watch time and virality over follower count, meaning a single video from a small account can outperform everything else in a creator's catalog. The episode closes with a candid look at monetization: what TikTok, YouTube Shorts, and Instagram Reels actually pay per view [VERIFY figures before publishing], why the real money in short-form tends to come from brand sponsorships, affiliate codes, and funneling viewers to a long-form platform or Patreon-style support, and why short-form works best as an entry point rather than a destination. This is the first episode in a week-long arc on science communication formats, building toward Friday's interview with Amy Weldon of Blue Collar White Coat. Takeaways Short-form content needs a hook in the first one to three seconds or the algorithm moves on Stick to one idea per video, delivered in one to three minutes Native, casual, direct-to-camera style tends to outperform overly produced content Captions matter because most viewers watch with the sound off The algorithm rewards watch time and virality over follower count, so small accounts can go viral Consistency over perfection is what builds a following over time Short-form monetization pay rates are modest [VERIFY]; real income tends to come from sponsorships, affiliates, and funneling to long-form or Patreon-style support Short-form is best used as an entry point into a creator's larger body of work, not the destination Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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  

Electric boating is having its Tesla moment, and few people understand that shift better than Alexandre Mongeon, CEO and co-founder of Vision Marine Technologies. Andrew sits down with Alexandre to trace his path from importing speed boats in Montreal to building the electric outboard systems now powering boats across North America. Along the way, Alexandre shares how a chance meeting with Olympic sailor and boat designer Ian Bruce set him on the road to electric propulsion, and how a rental-to-sale showroom model in Newport Beach, California, turned a small hobby business into a NASDAQ-listed company. The conversation covers the real tradeoffs of owning an electric boat, from quieter rides and instant torque to range anxiety that Alexandre says almost never becomes a real problem on the water. He also breaks down why big outboard manufacturers have been slow to go electric, what it took to validate the technology with McLaren Engineering, and how Vision Marine used a record-breaking electric race boat to prove the technology could outperform gas power head to head. The episode closes on a topic close to the podcast's heart: Vision Marine's partnership with ocean conservation organization 4ocean, and why quieter boats matter for the marine mammals sharing the water with us. Whether you are a lifelong boater curious about going electric or just interested in how a niche technology scales into a real industry, this conversation offers a grounded look at where boating is headed next. Takeaways Electric boats trade gas fumes and engine noise for instant torque and quiet, social rides on the water Range anxiety is rarely an issue in practice, since most boaters travel under nine nautical miles per outing Vision Marine's acquisition of Nautical Ventures gave it its own dealership and service network across the US A specially built electric race boat has outpaced its gas-powered Mercury counterpart on the same hull Quieter electric motors mean less underwater noise pollution, which matters for marine mammal communication Big outboard manufacturers have been slow to go electric because switching from combustion engine production is costly and complex Vision Marine's partnership with 4ocean has funded ocean cleanup work tied directly to boat sales and rentals Website: https://visionmarinetechnologies.com/ Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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  

Not every ocean conservation win comes from a nonprofit or a government program. In this episode, Andrew breaks down three for-profit companies that are cleaning up the ocean, funding wildlife research, and paying living wages to the people doing the work. These businesses show that conservation and profit are not opposing goals. They can be the same goal. Andrew covers 4Ocean, whose full-time captains and cleanup crews earn living wages with health insurance and bonuses across Florida, Bali, Haiti, and Guatemala. He covers Ocean Sole, the Kenyan social enterprise that pays local collectors for discarded flip-flops and employs artisans to turn that waste into sculptures sold around the world. And he covers the wildlife tracking bracelet company that lets a purchase fund a satellite tag on a real shark, manatee, or seabird, connecting buyers directly to the research their money supports. This episode is for entrepreneurs, scientists, and conservationists who want their work to have impact without depending entirely on grants or donor cycles. Andrew argues these three companies point to a business model that more of the ocean conservation space should be paying attention to: people, planet, and profit working together instead of one getting sacrificed for the others. Takeaways 4Ocean employs over 200 full-time captains and crew at living wages across Florida, Bali, Haiti, and Guatemala, plus 350+ bracelet artisans in Bali and Guatemala Ocean Sole pays Kenyan collectors for discarded flip-flops and employs local artisans to carve them into sculptures sold worldwide Wildlife tracking bracelets connect a single purchase to funding for a real satellite tag on an animal like a shark, manatee, or penguin All three companies operate as B Corps or B Corp-style social enterprises, combining environmental impact with fair local employment For-profit conservation businesses can offer more consistent funding than grant-dependent nonprofits, since revenue comes from ongoing product sales rather than competitive fundraising cycles Andrew argues the "triple bottom line" of people, planet, and profit should be the standard other conservation-minded entrepreneurs build toward Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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  

4ocean has removed more than 50 million pounds of plastic and trash from the world's oceans, rivers, and coastlines. That milestone did not come from a government program or a traditional nonprofit. It came from a for-profit business built around a single idea: every bracelet sold funds the removal of a pound of ocean trash. In this episode, Andrew breaks down how 4ocean went from one viral video in Bali to a global cleanup operation, why founders Alex Schulze and Andrew Cooper chose a business model over a nonprofit, and how the company built local jobs, recycling infrastructure, and B Corp accountability into its growth. He also digs into the harder questions worth asking about any cleanup business, including the tension between extraction and prevention, the tradeoff of turning recycled ocean plastic into apparel, and why independently audited impact numbers matter more than self reported totals. Whether you're building a career in ocean conservation, running a sustainability focused business, or just curious how a bracelet company ended up pulling 50 million pounds of trash out of the water, this episode gives you a clear look at what works, what's still unresolved, and what to look for the next time you're deciding where to put your money. Takeaways: 4ocean was founded in 2017 by Alex Schulze and Andrew Cooper after they saw plastic pollution overwhelming the water while surfing in Bali The company has removed more than 50 million pounds of plastic and trash from oceans, rivers, and coastlines as of February 2026 Every product sold ties directly to a measurable outcome, which makes the impact tangible for consumers 4ocean is a certified B Corp that hires and pays local workers in the regions where it operates, including Bali and Haiti The company is launching an Impact Dashboard in 2026 to give corporate partners traceable, verifiable insight into their funded impact Extraction models like 4ocean's remove existing trash, but prevention policies are still needed to stop plastic from entering waterways in the first place When evaluating any cleanup organization, look for independently audited impact numbers rather than self reported totals Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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 boat rental market is bigger than most people realize, and it's growing fast. In this episode, Andrew shares a personal story about his dad, boats, and why he's spent the last few months considering buying one, before walking through the data that changed his mind about ownership altogether. Andrew breaks down the numbers behind the boat sharing economy: a market valued between nineteen and twenty three billion dollars US, growing five to seven percent a year, with electric propulsion emerging as the fastest growing segment in boat rentals. Peer to peer platforms like Getmyboat, Boatsetter, Click and Boat, and Samboat are expanding access based boating, and membership and club models are outpacing traditional ownership. He also digs into why electric motors are becoming the preferred choice for rental fleet operators, from lower maintenance to fewer moving parts to a quieter, more pleasant experience on the water. This episode sets up Friday's interview with Alexandra Manjon, who runs an electric boat sales business, for a deeper conversation on electric motors and where the industry is headed. Takeaways: The global boat rental market is valued at roughly nineteen to twenty-three billion dollars US and growing five to seven percent annually Electric boats are the fastest-growing power source segment in boat rentals, projected at a compound annual growth rate near seventeen to eighteen percent through 2031 Peer-to-peer platforms like Getmyboat, Boatsetter, Click and Boat, and Samboat are expanding access-based boating over ownership Electric propulsion means lower maintenance and fewer moving parts, making it attractive for rental fleet operators Renting lets you try a boat, including an electric one, without the upfront cost or ongoing maintenance burden of ownership Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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  

Global shipping moves roughly 80 to 90% of the world's trade, and it comes with a real climate cost: the industry is responsible for a little over 2% of global CO2 emissions. On today's episode of the How to Protect the Ocean Podcast, Andrew looks at one of the more surprising fixes the industry is turning to: sails. Not the old canvas kind, but massive rigid wing sails retrofitted onto modern cargo vessels to cut fuel use and emissions without waiting on next-generation fuels. The centerpiece example is the Pyxis Ocean, a bulk carrier fitted with two 37.5-meter WindWings that fold down like giant airplane wings when they're not catching wind. It's part of a wider trend: more than 100 large cargo ships now sail with some form of wind propulsion installed, and the fuel savings range from about 1% to as much as 47%, depending on the number of sails and wind conditions. Andrew breaks down why shipping companies are leaning into this old-school technology now, from tightening emissions regulations to the simple fact that wind is free once the hardware is on deck. The bigger obstacle isn't the technology, it's the business model. Andrew digs into the split incentive problem in shipping: the owners who pay to install wind systems often aren't the ones paying for fuel, and the charterers who control fuel costs aren't the ones footing the bill for new equipment. That mismatch, more than any engineering hurdle, is what's slowing wind propulsion from scaling across the global fleet. Takeaways: Global shipping carries 80 to 90% of world trade and produces roughly 2% of global CO2 emissions The Pyxis Ocean was retrofitted with two 37.5-meter WindWing sails and helped kick off the current wave of wind-assisted shipping More than 100 large cargo ships now have wind propulsion installed, saving an estimated 100,000 tonnes of CO2 equivalent a year combined Wind can cut fuel use anywhere from 1% to 47%, and purpose-built wind-assisted ships could average a 50% reduction The biggest barrier to scaling wind propulsion is commercial, not technical: owners and charterers have mismatched incentives The IMO has set decarbonization targets for shipping, and EU-funded projects are running sea trials in the North Sea to prove the technology out Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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  

Hollywood might not be the first industry you think of when it comes to protecting the planet, but film and TV production has been quietly transforming how it operates behind the scenes. In this episode, Andrew sits down with Zena Harris, founder and president of Green Spark Group and co-host of The Tie-In podcast, to unpack what sustainability actually looks like on a working film set. Zena walks through the surprising ways major productions are cutting fuel consumption, swapping diesel generators for solar power and battery stations, and building a circular economy for set materials instead of sending them to the landfill. She traces the industry's evolution from early recycling programs to today's focus on electrification, and explains why sustainability still gets treated as a "luxury" that's often the first line item cut when budgets tighten. Whether or not you follow the entertainment industry, this conversation offers a blueprint any organization, including conservation groups, can use to look inward at its own operations and lead by example. Takeaways: Green Spark Group has helped productions like the CBC build sustainability into operations from leadership on down. Fuel consumption from vehicles and generators is the single biggest driver of a film production's carbon footprint. Sustainability consultants now aim to join productions four to eight weeks before filming starts, rather than days before. Cost savings and industry reputation, more than regulation, are what convince studios and producers to change. The next frontier for the industry is measuring the embodied carbon in materials like set-building lumber, not just fuel and waste. Sustainability is still widely treated as an optional add-on, which means it's often the first thing cut when budgets get tight. Links for Zena: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/zenaharris Website: greensparkgroup.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/greensparkgroup Instagram: instagram.com/greensparkgroup Facebook: facebook.com/greensparkgroup Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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  

Businesses love to say they are sustainable. Andrew breaks down why that word is no longer enough on its own. A new EU consumer protection regulation now requires companies to prove environmental claims with evidence, and it has helped drive more than 400 greenwashing-related enforcement actions across the US, UK, EU, Canada, Australia, and India in 2026 alone. Andrew draws on his own university experience with food labeling regulation to explain how vague standards let companies technically comply while misleading the public, then walks through real cases including SEC fines against Goldman Sachs, DWS, and WisdomTree Asset Management, state attorney general lawsuits in New York, California, and Washington DC, and Canada's growing green hushing trend where companies quietly stop talking about sustainability to avoid legal risk. The episode closes with practical advice for listeners on spotting greenwashing before it fools them, plus a preview of tomorrow's conversation with sustainability consultant Zena Harris on cleaning up the entertainment industry's environmental footprint. Takeaways Over 400 greenwashing enforcement actions were recorded globally in 2026 The EU's updated consumer protection regulation requires companies to substantiate environmental claims The SEC fined Goldman Sachs, DWS, and WisdomTree Asset Management for ESG-related misstatements State attorneys general in New York, California, and Washington, DC have filed greenwashing lawsuits Canada is seeing a rise in green hushing as companies scale back ESG statements to avoid litigation Vague terms like eco-friendly, green, and carbon neutral require evidence, not marketing language Third-party verification is more reliable than a company's own sustainability claims Tomorrow's episode features sustainability consultant Zena Harris on the entertainment industry Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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  

Sustainability conversations usually center on ecosystems, emissions targets, and corporate pledges, but this episode makes the case that people belong at the center of that conversation too. Andrew looks at how communities living closest to refineries, extraction sites, and industrial waterfronts carry a disproportionate share of the pollution burden, often without having consented to the risk in the first place. Using a Philadelphia refinery as a case study, Andrew walks through how fenceline communities experience higher poverty rates, higher rates of residents of color, and elevated cancer and respiratory risk compared to their surrounding cities. He extends that pattern to wildfire response, contrasting how affluent California communities were able to evacuate and rebuild after the Santa Ana wind fires with how remote Northern Ontario and Arctic communities, some with only one road in and one road out, had to be airlifted out entirely. The episode also revisits New York's Hudson River, once devastated by industrial chemical runoff and now home to returning oysters, menhaden, and whales after decades of restoration work. The back half of the episode turns to policy. As federal environmental justice efforts recede in 2026, states including Minnesota, Illinois, and Massachusetts are stepping into that gap, and nonprofit legal teams are winning court challenges against federal rollbacks. Andrew closes with a reminder that protecting the environment and protecting people are frequently the same fight, and that sustainable business practices tend to protect local economies as much as they protect public health. Takeaways Communities near industrial facilities carry a disproportionate pollution burden, often without their consent Fenceline communities show higher poverty rates, higher percentages of residents of color, and elevated cancer and respiratory risk Wildfire evacuation capacity varies sharply by community resources and infrastructure The Hudson River's recovery shows environmental restoration is possible after decades of industrial damage States are advancing environmental justice policy as federal efforts recede in 2026 Courts have blocked some federal rollbacks of environmental justice funding Protecting the environment and protecting public health are frequently the same fight Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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  

Sustainability isn't just good PR; it's good business math. In this episode, Andrew breaks down why companies are shifting toward circular business models, using Philips Lighting as a case study in selling light as a service instead of a product. He digs into the economics behind the shift: a British industrial symbiosis study that saved companies significant money and cut CO2 emissions, a PwC Sweden study showing double-digit operating cost reductions in circular electronics, and the rise of sustainability-linked loans that reward companies for hitting circularity targets with lower interest rates. Andrew also gets honest about the limits of corporate sustainability. Greenwashing is real, B Corp certification isn't perfect, and some consulting firms that advise on sustainability also take on fossil fuel clients. He connects this to a broader conversation about right-to-repair legislation, the EU's upcoming circular economy rules, and why appliances that used to last 20 to 25 years now often die within a decade. Along the way, he shares a personal story about a retired school principal who spent 25 years collecting bottles and cans to fund his old school, a small-scale example of the same circular thinking companies are now being pushed to adopt. This episode is part of How to Protect the Ocean's weekday coverage of ocean and sustainability news, where Andrew connects business decisions, government policy, and everyday consumer choices to the bigger picture of environmental protection. Takeaways Circular business models like Philips Lighting's lighting as a service can cut costs while extending product lifespans Industrial symbiosis and shared waste streams between companies can generate major cost savings and emissions reductions Sustainability-linked loans now offer lower interest rates to companies that hit circularity targets Greenwashing and inconsistent B Corp standards make it hard to separate real sustainability action from marketing The EU's upcoming circular economy legislation includes stricter product design rules, a digital product passport, and consumer repair rights Right to repair laws could reverse the trend of appliances failing well before their expected lifespan Deposit return systems for bottles and cans show how take-back models create financial incentive for recycling Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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  

Sustainability anxiety is real. Watching wildfires spread, sea levels rise, and ice melt while governments drag their feet on climate policy can leave anyone feeling stuck. Andrew opens today's episode by naming that frustration directly, then makes the case for where real momentum is actually coming from: business. This episode breaks down why companies are adopting sustainability practices, sometimes because they want to and sometimes because regulation and consumer pressure leave them little choice. Andrew walks through the European Union's corporate sustainability due diligence directive, a law requiring large companies to address environmental and human rights harms across their entire supply chain. He also shares a real cost savings story from Mountain Equipment Co-op's warehouse recycling overhaul, and explains how B Corp certification gives consumers a way to check a company's environmental and social record before they spend a dollar. This episode sets up Friday's interview with a sustainability consultant who works inside the entertainment industry, giving listeners the business and regulatory context needed to get the most out of that conversation. Takeaways The EU corporate sustainability due diligence directive requires large companies to address environmental and human rights harms across their full global supply chain Consumer spending and cancel culture create real pressure on companies to change their environmental practices Mountain Equipment Co-op saved millions of dollars annually after fixing its warehouse recycling and packaging process B Corp certification scores companies on people, profit, and planet, giving consumers a way to vet businesses before buying Small and medium-sized businesses face a heavier relative burden than large corporations when new sustainability regulations take effect Industry pushback has already led EU ministers to reduce the number of companies covered by the directive and delay its timeline Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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  

Conferences can feel intimidating, expensive, and overwhelming, especially if networking doesn't come naturally to you. In this episode, Andrew shares what more than a decade of attending marine science and conservation conferences has taught him about making real connections, from picking the right event for your career stage to crafting an elevator pitch that actually works. Andrew walks through how to choose a conference that fits your specific field, why in-person events build stronger professional relationships than virtual ones, and why even seasoned scientists like Dr. David Ebert still get approached by people battling imposter syndrome. He also shares a personal story about coaching his daughter Taya through her first job fair elevator pitch, and how that same pitch helped her get remembered a year later. Whether you are a student heading to your first conference or a working professional trying to expand your network, this episode offers practical, low-pressure strategies for showing up, introducing yourself, and building the kind of relationships that shape a career in ocean science and conservation. Takeaways Research conferences that match your specific career focus before committing time and money Practice a 20 to 30 second elevator pitch until it comes out naturally In-person conferences build stronger professional relationships than virtual ones Volunteering for a conference planning committee increases visibility and connections Imposter syndrome affects everyone, including established researchers The International Marine Conservation Congress stands out for its inclusive, welcoming atmosphere Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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  

Marineland Canada is officially closing, and this week the park began moving its remaining beluga whales out of Niagara Falls. Six belugas were flown out on a single flight this week, four to the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago and two to SeaWorld San Antonio, marking the start of a rescue effort that has been years in the making. Andrew walks through how the park got here, from its 1961 founding through decades of protests, whistleblower allegations, OSPCA charges, and a failed 2025 attempt to export the belugas to a Chinese aquarium. The episode traces the full timeline: the 2012 Toronto Star exposé that first exposed conditions at the park, trainer-turned-whistleblower Phil Demers and his years-long legal battle with Marineland, the 2019 passage of Canada's Free Willy Bill, and the deaths of Kiska the orca and Mary Holler, the park's last owner, which left the facility's future uncertain. Andrew also digs into why Marineland's plan to send the belugas to China was blocked and why sending them to accredited US aquariums, while still captivity, is being treated as the safer near-term option. Andrew shares his own take on the ethics of the situation, arguing that owning captive animals comes with an obligation to care for them regardless of a park's finances, and explains why release into open ocean is not a realistic option for whales that have never hunted on their own. He also covers the ongoing effort to build a whale sanctuary in Nova Scotia and the funding gap still standing in its way. Takeaways Marineland Canada is closing and moved its first six belugas to US aquariums this week The park's collapse followed over a decade of OSPCA charges, whistleblower allegations, and public protest A planned export of the belugas to a Chinese aquarium was denied by Canada's fisheries minister Belugas raised in captivity cannot be released directly into open ocean since they have never hunted on their own The Whale Sanctuary Project in Nova Scotia still lacks federal permits and full construction funding The land Marineland sits on is expected to be sold for development once the animals are relocated Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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 US government is moving toward the world's first commercial deep-sea mining lease sale, and it's happening in federal waters off American Samoa. In this episode, Andrew breaks down how we got here: a California startup's 2025 request to mine polymetallic nodules, the Request for Information process that followed, and the 75,000-plus public comments that came in during the 30-day comment window, with 80 to 98% opposed to mining. Despite that opposition, and despite a standing moratorium from American Samoa's own governor, the federal government expanded the proposed mining area from 18 million to 33 million acres and pushed the lease sale forward, currently projected for August 2026. Andrew walks through who's actually bidding on this, including Impossible Metals, The Metals Company, and a handful of smaller entrants, and digs into what the peer-reviewed science says about the risks. That includes a 2025 Nature Ecology & Evolution study showing a 37% drop in seafloor animal density after a single test mining pass, a Nature study finding measurable impacts still detectable four decades after a 1970s test site, and research on the socioeconomic stakes for Pacific fisheries and tuna-dependent economies. The episode closes with the question that matters most: do American Samoans actually want this? Spoiler, no, based on every available measure of public sentiment, though the picture isn't entirely uniform. Andrew also unpacks the deeper pattern here, indigenous Pacific communities being asked to shoulder the risk of an untested industry with little say in the outcome. Takeaways: Sign a petition opposing the lease sale Follow and support Earthjustice, Greenpeace, and NRDC as they track legal action Follow Future Swell for ongoing updates If you're a US voter, remember this fight runs through the midterms Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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  

A viral TikTok about fish aggregation devices drifting into marine protected areas got Andrew thinking about a topic he hasn't covered in a while: ghost nets. In this episode, he breaks down what ghost nets actually are, the scientific term for them (ALDFG, or abandoned, lost, or otherwise discarded fishing gear), and why they're a growing, well-documented problem from the ocean surface all the way down to the deep seafloor. Andrew walks through what the peer-reviewed research shows: entanglement patterns across whales, seals, sea turtles, and coral reefs, a personal diving story off Big Cayman where he watched a ghost net get cut free from a loggerhead sea turtle, and the real economic and technical challenges holding back solutions like ropeless fishing gear and biodegradable nets. He also covers where progress is actually happening, from derelict net removal programs to circular economy recycling models. This isn't a "just stop fishing" episode. Andrew makes the case that ghost nets are a solvable, adaptable problem, but one that needs more research funding, cheaper technology, and stronger enforcement to get there. Takeaways from this episode: Ghost nets (ALDFG) are found from the ocean surface to the deep seafloor, and they keep catching and killing marine life for as long as they remain in the water. The animals most affected span whales, seals, sea turtles, and coral reef species, not just fish. Solutions like ropeless gear and biodegradable nets are real and improving, but cost and fisher adoption remain the biggest barriers. Stopping fishing altogether isn't a realistic fix. The path forward is better gear design, more funding, and stronger enforcement. Listeners can support the fisheries and programs that are already investing in gear-loss prevention and removal. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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  

For a week straight, Andrew watched his own sky turn orange outside Toronto as smoke from nearly 900 wildfires burning across Canada, most of them following the boreal forest from the east coast to Northwestern Ontario, drifted south into the US and back again. He walks through what actually happened on the ground: which towns and First Nations were evacuated, how bad the air quality got (Toronto briefly had the worst AQI in the world), and why northwestern Ontario, not a hugely populated area but home to vulnerable First Nations communities, bore the brunt of it. Then he digs into why this keeps happening. Most of Ontario's fires this season were sparked by lightning, not arson, despite conspiracy theories claiming otherwise (arson accounts for well under a quarter of cases). An active El Nino is drying things out further, and climate change is intensifying the underlying heat and dryness that let these fires spread. Andrew also connects the dots to the ocean directly: the boreal forest is one of the planet's biggest carbon sinks, and when it burns that stored carbon heads into the atmosphere, where roughly a quarter of it eventually gets absorbed by the ocean, driving further acidification. The back half of the episode gets political. Ontario slashed its emergency firefighting budget from $271 million spent in 2025-26 down to $150 million budgeted for 2026-27, even as Premier Doug Ford defends the province's readiness. Meanwhile, US President Trump and several senators have floated tariffs and sanctions against Canada over the smoke, a move Andrew calls scientifically and diplomatically backwards given how often Canada and the US send firefighters and equipment across the border to help each other. He closes with concrete steps listeners can take, from checking air quality indexes to contacting elected officials about wildfire funding. Takeaways From the Episode Nearly 900 wildfires were burning across Canada as of July 16, most following the boreal forest belt into Northwestern Ontario. Vulnerable First Nations communities and small towns bore the brunt of evacuations, some residents had to self-evacuate by boat or air with little warning. Most fires were lightning-caused, not arson, arson accounts for well under a quarter of cases despite online conspiracy theories. Burning boreal forest releases stored carbon into the atmosphere, and roughly a quarter of human-caused CO2 emissions get absorbed by the ocean, tying wildfires directly to ocean acidification. Ontario cut its baseline emergency firefighting budget from $271 million spent to $150 million budgeted for the coming year, a proactive-versus-reactive funding problem. US tariffs and sanctions threats against Canada over the smoke ignore how often the two countries help each other fight fires, including the loss of a Canadian firefighter in Colorado this year. Individual actions still matter: check air quality indexes before extended time outdoors, follow evacuation orders immediately if you're in a fire zone, keep a 72-hour go bag ready, and contact your elected officials if wildfire underfunding frustrates you. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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  

If you've ever felt a hard strike, fought a fish, and reeled up nothing but a head, you already know what shark depredation feels like. In this episode, Andrew breaks down a new study that tracked shark depredation across the entire Atlantic coast, from Maine to Texas and the US Caribbean, going back a full century to figure out why it's happening more now than ever before. The study found at least 51 targeted fish stocks affected and 22 shark species involved, with bull sharks and sandbar sharks showing up most often. But the real story isn't that sharks are out of control. It's that decades of shark conservation, starting with the 1993 US shark management plan, actually worked, and a recovering shark population combined with more anglers on the water means more overlap, and more overlap means more bite-offs. Andrew unpacks the concept of "dead discards," the fish that die during depredation but never get counted in stock assessments, and why that creates a blind spot in fishery management. The episode closes with concrete, same-day actions anglers (and non-anglers) can take, from changing fishing tactics to reporting depredation events to NOAA, so both fish and shark populations can keep being managed well. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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  

A thousand meters down off the coast of Brazil, a deep-sea robot caught something almost no one has ever filmed alive: a giant open ocean octopus calmly eating a jellyfish. That moment, captured by the Schmidt Ocean Institute's ROV SuBastian aboard the research vessel Falkor (too), was part of a wider expedition that turned up more than two dozen species new to science, from glowing worms to glass squid to strange colonial siphonophores. The discovery points to something bigger than one expedition. The ocean's midwater, the vast zone between the sunlit surface and the seafloor, is by volume the largest living space on the planet, and we've barely looked at it. It's also doing quiet, essential work: midwater animals help drive the biological carbon pump, moving millions of tons of carbon from the surface into the deep ocean every year and helping regulate the climate we all live in. That same midwater is now facing a decision. Deep-sea mining companies want to extract metals from the seafloor below it, and the sediment plumes that the process kicks up could drift for enormous distances through this fragile, newly discovered ecosystem. The rulebook that would allow commercial mining hasn't been finished yet, and dozens of countries, including Canada and Brazil, have called for a pause. This episode breaks down what was found, why it matters, and what you can actually do about it this week. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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  

In 1978, an Exxon scientist asked a question in capital letters: were the oceans dissolving coral reefs? By 1982, Exxon's own scientists had the answer, in writing. So did Shell by 1986. This episode traces a newly published Oxford University study that dug through more than fourteen thousand pages of fossil fuel industry documents and found that the world's biggest oil and gas companies understood, decades before the public did, exactly how their product would wreck coral reefs. We walk through what the industry knew and when, how a funded think tank report in 2012 was built to look like an official government climate assessment while contradicting the industry's own internal science, and where coral reefs stand today after the largest global bleaching event ever recorded. Along the way, we cover the coral chemistry that makes reefs vulnerable to rising CO2, the internal Exxon and Shell documents at the center of the Oxford study, and how this paper trail is now showing up as evidence in real courtrooms, including a landmark January 2026 ruling in The Hague. This isn't a story to leave you paralyzed. It closes with four concrete actions you can take this week, from sharing what you now know to pushing the emissions lever that actually moves the needle. If you care about coral reefs, or you just want the receipts on one of the biggest corporate cover-ups tied to the ocean, this episode is for you. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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  

For more than a decade, almost 2,000 volunteers have walked California's beaches with clipboards, counting every swimmer, surfer, angler, and boat they see. It sounds simple, maybe even a little strange. But that pile of data, more than a million tally marks collected between 2012 and 2020, just answered a question marine scientists have debated for years: do marine protected areas actually work in the real world, not just on paper? In this episode, we walk through what researchers found when they finally pulled that decade of volunteer data together. We look at how the MPA Watch program trains everyday people to track human activity on the coast, how scientists stripped out the noise to find the real signal, and what the numbers say about compliance, recreation, and enforcement inside no-take zones. We also connect this human data to a separate decade of underwater fish surveys, and to the famous Cabo Pulmo recovery story, to show why watching people matters as much as watching fish. The takeaway is simple but important. Ocean protection does not have to mean locking people out, and it does not happen by accident. It works when people believe in it, follow it, and watch over it, and this episode gives you a few concrete ways to be one of those people, whether that means joining MPA Watch yourself, learning your local rules, or just reporting what you see. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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  

Right now, somewhere in the open ocean, a raft the size of a small table is drifting with no one steering it. It's called a fish aggregating device, or FAD, and the tuna industry drops thousands of them into the water every year to lure fish to the surface. A new study published in Science Advances tracked where these rafts actually end up, and the answer is unsettling: they've likely drifted through more than half of the world's marine protected areas by total area, with over 6,300 strandings recorded across 174 protected areas in 53 countries and territories. When a drifting FAD washes onto a reef, its trailing net snags and breaks coral, then breaks down into plastic pollution in the exact places set aside to stay clean. The nets keep "ghost fishing" long after anyone's watching, entangling turtles and sharks. Nearly 500 at-risk species live in the protected areas where these strandings happen, and the cleanup burden usually falls on small island communities who never saw a dollar of profit from the tuna these devices caught. Andrew breaks down what the study found, why protected areas can't defend against gear that doesn't recognize boundaries, and the one label on a can of tuna that tells you whether you're funding this problem or not. It's a same-day, ten-second habit that pushes back on the exact fishing method behind the damage. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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  

Scientists have uncovered an incredible secret hiding in plain sight on coral reefs. Some tropical sea sponges are able to harvest sunlight through microscopic algae living inside their tissues, giving them a surprising source of energy. It is a discovery that challenges what we thought we knew about one of the ocean's oldest animals. In this episode, we explore how these ancient filter feeders use a partnership with algae to survive and thrive in nutrient-poor tropical waters. You'll learn why this relationship is similar to the one that helps corals build reefs and why researchers believe sponges play a much bigger role in reef ecosystems than previously recognized. Sometimes the most important discoveries come from the animals we pay the least attention to. If we want to protect coral reefs, we need to understand every species that helps keep them functioning. This new research reminds us that even the simplest-looking organisms can have extraordinary abilities and may be far more important than we ever imagined. Follow the podcast for more weekday ocean news that helps you better understand our blue planet. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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  

Sea level rise isn't always dramatic. Long before homes disappear beneath the waves, coastal communities can lose something even more essential: safe drinking water. In this episode, we explore how saltwater is quietly moving into freshwater supplies across coastal Bangladesh and why this hidden impact deserves far more attention. Using a recent Mongabay commentary as a starting point, you'll learn how rising seas, changing rivers, and human activities are combining to reshape one of the world's largest river deltas. The consequences extend beyond drinking water to agriculture, public health, local economies, and the future of entire communities. It is a reminder that climate change often begins with changes we cannot immediately see. This isn't just Bangladesh's story. Coastal communities around the world are becoming more vulnerable to saltwater intrusion as sea levels continue to rise. Understanding these early warning signs helps us better prepare for a future where protecting freshwater may become just as important as protecting our shorelines. Source: https://news.mongabay.com/2026/07/sea-level-rise-is-ruining-coastal-bangladesh-with-salty-water-commentary/ Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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 world just pledged more than $6.4 billion for ocean conservation at the 2026 Our Ocean Conference, but history tells us that big announcements do not always lead to meaningful action. In this episode, we unpack what was actually announced, who made the commitments, and why the headline number is only part of the story. You'll learn why this year's conference in Kenya was especially significant and what makes these commitments different from legally binding agreements. We also explore the question that rarely gets asked: how do we know whether these promises will ever become real conservation outcomes? From sustainable fisheries and marine protected areas to climate resilience and the blue economy, we examine where the money is intended to go and what could stand in the way of success. If you've ever wondered whether international ocean conferences are worth paying attention to, this episode is for you. Finally, we discuss why accountability matters more than announcements, and what to watch for over the coming months as organizations begin turning promises into action. With the next Our Ocean Conference heading to Halifax, this conversation offers a timely look at how global cooperation can help protect our ocean if the commitments are actually delivered. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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  

Thousands of seabirds are washing ashore along California's coast, starving, exhausted, and unable to find enough food. While the images are heartbreaking, scientists say the birds are only the visible symptom of a much larger problem unfolding beneath the surface. In this episode, we explore why seabirds are dying and what their struggle reveals about the health of the Pacific Ocean. You'll learn how marine heat waves are disrupting one of the world's most productive ocean ecosystems by reducing nutrients, shrinking fish populations, and breaking apart the marine food web. We also look at why seabirds act as early warning indicators, often showing us that something is wrong long before the full impact reaches fisheries, marine mammals, or coastal communities. With another powerful El Niño expected to develop, these warning signs may become even more important in the years ahead. Understanding what is happening today can help us prepare for tomorrow and remind us why protecting ocean ecosystems means protecting the communities and wildlife that depend on them. Listen now to discover why the fate of seabirds matters to all of us. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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  

Canada has admitted it is no longer on track to meet its 2030 climate targets, but the reasons go far beyond domestic politics. In this episode, we explore how changing economic priorities are reshaping Canada's approach to climate action. The surprising twist is that many of these changes begin outside Canada's borders. New U.S. tariffs and shifting trade policies are putting pressure on Canada's economy, forcing leaders to rethink where to invest and what to prioritize. As economic policy changes, climate policy often changes with it. We follow that chain of events to understand why Canada's emissions outlook has changed and what it means going forward. Finally, we connect the dots to the ocean. Slower climate progress means greater risks for marine ecosystems, coastal communities, and the industries that depend on healthy oceans. If you've ever wondered how international politics can influence ocean conservation, this episode brings the whole picture together. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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  

Most of us will never visit the deep ocean, yet it covers the majority of our planet and supports life in ways we're only beginning to understand. In this episode, Andrew Lewin wraps up the Surfacing Secrets series with Ocean Networks Canada by exploring why the deep sea remains one of Earth's greatest frontiers. You'll discover how scientists are uncovering hidden ecosystems that could reshape our understanding of the ocean. Andrew is joined by Monica Peltz of Ocean Networks Canada and Heidi Gartner from Fisheries and Oceans Canada to discuss what it takes to study places thousands of meters below the surface. They share how cutting-edge technology, education, and collaboration are making deep-sea science more accessible than ever before. Their work is helping students, researchers, and the public experience discoveries that were impossible just a generation ago. The conversation also explores why deep-sea exploration matters far beyond scientific curiosity. Understanding these hidden ecosystems helps inform conservation decisions, strengthens ocean stewardship, and reminds us how much of our planet is still waiting to be explored. By bringing these unseen worlds to light, we can make better choices about protecting the ocean for future generations. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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  

How do you protect something you barely understand? In this episode, we explore why ocean exploration is much more than discovering strange creatures or mapping the seafloor. Every marine protected area, conservation plan, and fisheries decision begins with one essential ingredient: knowledge. You'll discover how scientists collect the information that guides conservation, from mapping underwater canyons to identifying coral gardens and sponge reefs that most people will never see. We also look at what happens when important ecosystems are damaged before we even know they exist, and why exploration gives decision makers the evidence they need to protect the right places. This episode is the final part of our deep-sea exploration series leading into tomorrow's special interview with experts from Fisheries and Oceans Canada and Ocean Networks Canada. If you've ever wondered why ocean science matters to your everyday life, this conversation will show you why understanding the ocean is the first step toward protecting it. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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 deep ocean is one of the most extreme places on Earth. Crushing pressure, freezing temperatures, and total darkness make it impossible for humans to explore for long, yet scientists continue to make incredible discoveries thousands of meters below the surface. So how do they do it? In this episode, you'll discover the remarkable technology that makes deep sea exploration possible. From remotely operated vehicles and autonomous underwater robots to multibeam sonar, artificial intelligence, and environmental DNA, these tools are transforming how we study one of the least explored parts of our planet. You'll also learn why mapping the ocean often leads to discoveries scientists never expected to find. This episode is part three of our four-part series leading up to Friday's interview with experts from Ocean Networks Canada and Fisheries and Oceans Canada. By the end, you'll understand why technology is helping scientists ask bigger questions, make new discoveries, and build the knowledge needed to better protect Canada's deep ocean and the rest of our blue planet. Map the Gaps: https://www.mapthegaps.org/ Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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    

Most people picture the deep sea as a dark, empty place where almost nothing can survive. The truth is far more surprising. Thousands of meters below the surface lives an extraordinary world filled with ancient corals, giant sponges, glowing jellyfish, strange fish, and species that scientists are still discovering today. In this episode, you'll learn how life has adapted to crushing pressure, freezing temperatures, and complete darkness. You'll also discover why deep-sea ecosystems are some of the most important habitats on Earth, supporting biodiversity, fisheries, and even helping us better understand how life itself can evolve under extreme conditions. The more scientists explore the deep sea, the more they realize how much remains unknown. That mystery is exciting, but it also makes protecting these fragile ecosystems more important than ever. If you've ever wondered what really lives in the deepest parts of our ocean, this episode will change the way you think about the world beneath the waves. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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  

How can we know more about the Moon and Mars than the bottom of our own ocean? It sounds impossible, but it is true. In this episode, we begin a special series on deep ocean exploration by uncovering why so much of our planet remains a mystery and why that matters more than ever. The deep ocean plays a critical role in regulating Earth's climate, supporting marine life, and helping sustain the ecosystems we depend on every day. Yet scientists have only explored a tiny fraction of it because of crushing pressure, complete darkness, and the enormous scale of the seafloor. You'll discover why exploring the deep sea is far more than an adventure; it is essential for making better decisions about conservation. This episode sets the stage for an upcoming interview with experts from Oceans Network Canada and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada who are helping reveal Canada's hidden underwater world. Before we can protect the ocean, we first have to understand it. And that journey begins here. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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  

What happens to marine conservation when a humanitarian crisis unfolds? In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, we explore the remarkable story of marine scientist Mohammed Abu Daya, whose work studying endangered giant devil rays has continued despite the immense challenges of living and working in Gaza. His story reminds us that conservation is ultimately about people as much as it is about wildlife. You'll learn why giant devil rays are among the Mediterranean's most vulnerable species, why scientists still know so little about them, and how local research can shape global conservation efforts. We also look at the unique challenges facing marine ecosystems during times of conflict and why protecting biodiversity cannot simply be put on hold. This episode is about resilience, science, and hope. It highlights the dedication of researchers who continue gathering critical information under extraordinary circumstances and shows why every piece of knowledge matters for protecting our ocean. Follow How to Protect the Ocean for your next weekday ocean news update. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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  

For years, mangrove forests were seen as one of the world's fastest disappearing coastal ecosystems. Cleared for development, shrimp farming, and agriculture, these unique forests seemed locked in a steady decline. But a new global study tells a much more hopeful story. Researchers have found that mangroves are recovering in many parts of the world, offering one of the most encouraging conservation success stories in recent years. In this episode, I break down why mangroves are so important for the health of our oceans and the people who depend on them. You'll learn how these coastal forests protect communities from storms, provide critical nursery habitat for fish, and store massive amounts of carbon that help fight climate change. We'll also explore why scientists believe nature can recover when we give it the opportunity. Finally, we'll look at what this recovery means for the future. While the findings are encouraging, mangroves still face threats from coastal development, pollution, and climate change. This episode is a reminder that conservation works, restoration can succeed, and protecting coastal ecosystems remains one of the smartest investments we can make for both people and the planet.

A potential super El Niño is developing in the Pacific Ocean, and scientists are warning that it could have major consequences for marine ecosystems around the world. While El Niño is a natural climate pattern, stronger events can dramatically alter ocean conditions by warming surface waters and reducing the nutrients that support marine food webs. In this episode, we explore why researchers are watching this event so closely and what it could mean for the future of the ocean. One of the biggest concerns is how a super El Niño could affect fisheries and marine wildlife. When warmer water prevents nutrients from reaching the surface, phytoplankton production can decline, reducing food availability for fish, seabirds, seals, and sea lions. Some of the world's most important fisheries, including the Peruvian anchoveta fishery, have experienced major disruptions during past El Niño events, creating ripple effects throughout global seafood supply chains. We also discuss why this story matters beyond the ocean. A strong El Niño can influence food security, coastal economies, coral reef health, and climate impacts across the globe. Although scientists cannot stop an El Niño from forming, improved forecasting and monitoring systems give communities more time to prepare. This episode examines the science behind the headlines and explains why what happens in the Pacific Ocean rarely stays in the Pacific Ocean. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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  

After 11 years of hosting How to Protect the Ocean, I wanted to take a step back and reflect on what the journey has taught me. What started as a simple passion project became a platform for ocean storytelling, science communication, and career development. Along the way, I learned lessons about persistence, networking, and creating opportunities that I never could have predicted when I published the first episode. One of the biggest takeaways is that building a career in marine science and conservation is rarely a straight line. Many people enter the field because they love the ocean, but passion alone is not enough. Success often comes from gaining experience, volunteering, developing new skills, and continuing to show up even when progress feels slow. In this episode, I share the lessons that emerged from more than a decade of conversations with scientists, conservationists, policymakers, and ocean advocates. We discuss why visibility matters, how side projects can shape your future, and why consistency is often the most important skill of all. Whether you are just starting your ocean career or looking for inspiration to keep going, this episode offers an honest look at what it takes to build something meaningful over time. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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  

What happens when one of the world's most important ocean monitoring systems is nearly shut down?   The Ocean Observatories Initiative (OOI) collects critical data on ocean temperatures, oxygen levels, currents, marine ecosystems, and climate change. Earlier this year, parts of the program faced significant cuts, raising concerns among scientists, policymakers, and ocean advocates. In this episode, we explore why researchers fought so hard to save the OOI, how the National Academies challenged the justification for the cuts, and why long-term ocean observations are essential for understanding climate change, marine ecosystems, and the future of ocean conservation. If we stop watching the ocean, what might we miss? Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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 ocean is facing some of the biggest challenges in its history. Rising temperatures, marine heatwaves, coral bleaching, habitat loss, and overfishing continue to put pressure on marine ecosystems around the world. If you only follow the headlines, it can feel like ocean conservation is losing the battle. But hidden within a recent United Nations ocean report is a surprising reason for optimism. While ocean health continues to decline in many areas, the systems designed to protect the ocean are getting stronger. Countries are expanding marine protected areas, improving international cooperation, deploying satellite monitoring technology, and developing new agreements to manage the ocean more effectively. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, Andrew Lewin explores the difference between ocean health and ocean governance, and why that distinction matters. You'll learn why conservation progress often feels slow, how stronger governance creates the foundation for long-term recovery, and why recognizing meaningful progress is essential if we want to stay motivated and continue protecting the ocean. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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  

For decades, Indigenous communities were often asked whether they approved of projects happening in their territories. But a different question is now emerging: why should they not own part of those projects? In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, Andrew Lewin looks at the shift from consultation to Indigenous ownership in ocean conservation, fisheries, infrastructure, and ocean technology. From the Mi'kmaq ownership stake in Clearwater Seafoods to the future of ocean data, monitoring, and blue economy projects, this episode asks who gets to lead, who benefits, and why ownership may shape the future of conservation more than technology alone. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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  

Pilot whales rely on sound for nearly every aspect of their lives. They use vocalizations to communicate with family members, coordinate movements, find food, and navigate through their environment. But what happens when the ocean becomes so noisy that those sounds are drowned out? In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, we explore new research suggesting that commercial shipping noise in the Strait of Gibraltar may be interfering with the ability of pilot whales to hear and communicate with one another. The Strait of Gibraltar is one of the busiest shipping routes on the planet, connecting the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea. Every day, hundreds of vessels move through these waters, generating a constant background of underwater noise. Scientists are increasingly concerned that this noise pollution is masking whale calls, forcing animals to change how they communicate and potentially affecting their ability to stay connected with their social groups. For highly social species like pilot whales, losing the ability to communicate effectively could have serious consequences. In this episode, Andrew Lewin breaks down why sound is so important in the ocean, how human activities are changing underwater soundscapes, and what can be done to reduce noise pollution. You'll learn why scientists consider sound an essential part of marine habitat, how quieter ships could help protect marine mammals, and why ocean conservation is about more than just protecting physical spaces. If you've ever wondered how something as invisible as noise can impact whale survival, this episode is for you. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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  

In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, Andrew Lewin looks at the Trump administration's move to reopen protected marine sanctuary waters to commercial fishing and asks a bigger question: who actually benefits when public ocean resources are opened up? The episode breaks down why marine protected areas matter, how fisheries recover when protections stay in place, and why local and Indigenous fishing communities may not be the ones who gain when large commercial fleets get access. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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  

A viral underwater video of a great white shark in the Mediterranean Sea recently captured the attention of people around the world. For many viewers, the footage seemed to show a shark appearing in a place where it shouldn't be. But the truth is much more interesting. Great white sharks have been documented in the Mediterranean for decades, yet they remain one of the most mysterious and least understood apex predators in the region. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, Andrew breaks down why this sighting matters and what the public often gets wrong about stories like this. The shark was filmed by divers working with Healthy Seas while removing abandoned fishing gear from the seafloor. While the footage itself is remarkable, the bigger story is what it tells us about the challenges facing large predators in one of the busiest and most heavily used seas on Earth. From fishing pressure and habitat degradation to gaps in scientific knowledge, the Mediterranean remains a challenging place for sharks to survive. You'll also learn why conservationists were excited about the video for reasons that had nothing to do with discovering a new population. Andrew explores the concept of shifting baselines, how viral wildlife stories can sometimes distort public understanding, and why rare observations like this are still incredibly valuable for conservation. The episode highlights the importance of documenting marine life, supporting scientific research, and continuing efforts to reduce threats such as ghost fishing gear. By the end of the episode, you'll see that the shark wasn't really the story. The real story is how much we still don't know about some of the ocean's most iconic animals, even in regions that humans have studied and used for thousands of years. Sometimes a single video can remind us that the ocean still holds mysteries worth exploring, understanding, and protecting. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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  

Ocean conservation is often treated like an impossible problem, but the truth is simpler: when strong laws are created, enforced, and guided by science, ocean protection works. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, Andrew Lewin looks at the unglamorous but powerful role of legislation in ocean conservation. From Canada's Oceans Act and marine protected areas to the U.S. Endangered Species Act, Marine Mammal Protection Act, and Magnuson-Stevens Act, this episode shows how laws can help recover species, rebuild fisheries, and protect habitats. But laws only work when governments follow the science. Andrew also discusses what happens when political decisions override scientific advice, including concerns around the reopening of commercial cod fishing in Canada. This episode is about why ocean protection is possible, why enforcement matters, and why voters need to pay attention to leaders who treat the ocean as more than just a resource. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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  

Canada has a rare chance to become a global ocean conservation leader, but the path is not simple. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, Andrew Lewin breaks down Canada's proposed $3.8 billion nature strategy, what it could mean for marine protected areas, and why ocean protection matters as development pressures grow. From pipelines and shipping to offshore oil and gas, fisheries conflicts, climate change, and Arctic access, Canada's ocean future is being shaped right now. This episode looks at the promise, the risks, and the question every coastal nation should be asking: what kind of ocean legacy do we want to leave? Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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 world has now protected about 10% of the ocean, a major milestone compared to where we were a decade ago. But with the global 30x30 target aiming to protect 30% of land and ocean by 2030, the big question is whether we are protecting the right places, fast enough, and with enough enforcement to make those protections real. In this episode, Andrew breaks down why 10% ocean protection is worth celebrating, why the next 20% will be difficult, and why small coastal protected areas still matter even if they do not add much to the global percentage. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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  

Many people feel powerless when it comes to environmental issues. Whether it's climate change, habitat destruction, or controversial development projects, it can seem like the biggest decisions are made without public input. But recent protests against proposed AI data centers are reminding us that communities still have influence when people choose to get involved. Across North America, residents have been raising concerns about water use, energy demand, environmental impacts, and transparency surrounding AI data center developments. By attending meetings, contacting elected officials, and organizing locally, communities have forced decision-makers to answer tough questions and, in some cases, rethink projects that once seemed inevitable. The lesson goes far beyond AI. Many of the environmental protections we rely on today exist because ordinary people showed up, spoke up, and demanded better outcomes for nature and their communities. In this episode, we explore why civic engagement remains one of the most powerful conservation tools available and how local action can create meaningful environmental change. Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Need help with your ocean non-profit, company, or project? Get the help you need with Pisces Oceans Inc.: https://www.piscesoceans.ca 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