Are OECMs (Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures) just as effective as Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in protecting biodiversity? In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, we break down the differences, benefits, and challenges of OECMs, particularly in Canada’s conservation strategy. Learn how fisheries closures and Indigenous-led conservation initiatives contribute to marine biodiversity and whether they should be counted toward Canada’s 30x30 target.

🔹 What are OECMs, and how do they compare to MPAs?

🔹 Can fisheries closures serve as effective conservation tools?

🔹 How do OECMs support Canada’s marine biodiversity targets?

Tune in to explore how these conservation measures fit into global marine protection efforts.

#OECMs #MarineProtectedAreas #Biodiversity #OceanConservation #SustainableFishing #30x30 #FisheriesManagement #ClimateAction #MarineEcosystems #Oceans #ConservationScience #MPAs #SustainableOceans

The vaquita porpoise (Phocoena sinus) is the rarest marine mammal, with fewer than 10 individuals remaining in the wild. Found only in Mexico’s Gulf of California, this elusive species is critically endangered due to illegal gillnet fishing for totoaba, a fish highly valued in Chinese markets.

💡 But new conservation technology is offering hope! In this video, we explore:

✅ What makes the vaquita unique

✅ Why gillnets are the biggest threat

✅ How drones, sonar, and AI are being used to detect illegal fishing

✅ The latest conservation efforts by scientists and organizations like Sea Shepherd

✅ What YOU can do to help prevent the extinction of this incredible species!

🔔 Subscribe for more ocean conservation content!

👍 Like this video if you support vaquita conservation!

💬 Comment below: Should more tech be used to protect endangered species?

📌 Learn More & Get Involved:

➡️ WWF Vaquita Conservation

➡️ Sea Shepherd Vaquita Campaign

➡️ CITES Totoaba Trade Ban

#Vaquita #SaveTheVaquita #MarineConservation #OceanWildlife #EndangeredSpecies #WildlifeProtection #ConservationTechnology 

Discover how sustainable supply chains are transforming businesses worldwide! In this insightful interview, Christophe Girardier dives into the challenges and innovations in supply chain sustainability. From reducing carbon footprints to adopting ethical sourcing practices, learn how companies are making a real impact on the environment and their bottom line. Don’t miss this conversation about the future of sustainable business!

🔹 Topics Covered:

✔️ Sustainable supply chain strategies

✔️ ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) practices

✔️ Reducing carbon emissions in logistics

✔️ Ethical and responsible sourcing

✔️ The future of green business

The plastic straw ban was meant to be a win for the environment—but why did it fail? In this video, we break down what went wrong, why people resisted, and what behavioral science teaches us about designing better conservation campaigns. 🌊🚯

We’ll explore:

✅ Why plastic straws became a target for bans

✅ The backlash and why some people rebelled against the ban

✅ How psychological and behavior change theories explain resistance

✅ Smarter ways to design future conservation efforts that actually work

If we want to protect the ocean from plastic pollution, we need to rethink our approach. Watch to learn how we can move beyond bans and create real, lasting change!

Are you a figure skater, hockey player, or just love gliding on ice? ❄️ Imagine skating on a surface that feels like real ice—but with zero refrigeration and lower energy costs! ⚡🌍

In this video, we explore Glice, an innovative synthetic ice that offers an eco-friendly alternative to traditional rinks. Find out how it works, why it’s changing the game, and how you can experience the future of skating!

🔔 Subscribe for more sustainable innovations!

📩 Share this with fellow skaters and rink owners!

Did you know that killer whales (Orcinus orca) are taking down great white sharks (Carcharodon carcharias) in South Africa? 🦈🐋 In this video, we break down groundbreaking research that provides genetic evidence of orcas hunting and preying on white sharks! Scientists analyzed bite wounds on a white shark carcass and found killer whale DNA, confirming this apex predator battle.

Why does this matter? The absence of great whites in certain areas due to orca predation could change entire marine ecosystems! 🌊 Discover how this interaction reshapes the ocean food chain, why orcas target shark livers, and what it means for conservation.

Link to article: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ece3.70786

In this episode, we explore the alarming assault on science happening within the U.S. government, specifically targeting NOAA (National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration) and the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency). Discover how these essential organizations are being undermined, why it matters for our planet, and what we can do to support evidence-based decision-making in environmental policies.

Join us as we unpack the critical role of NOAA and the EPA in protecting our environment and why their work is more vital than ever. 🌍

🔔 Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more insights on ocean conservation and environmental protection.

Andrew Lewin and Tao Leigh Goffe dive deep into the intersection of storytelling, culture, and the urgent issue of climate change with renowned scholar Tao Leigh Goffe. Through an engaging conversation, we explore how storytelling serves as a bridge between individuals, communities, and the global climate crisis. Tao highlights the importance of amplifying voices from marginalized and vulnerable communities on the frontlines of environmental change.

We discuss the power of cultural narratives to inspire action, reframe perspectives, and foster empathy in addressing the climate crisis. Tao emphasizes how the arts, history, and personal storytelling can challenge dominant narratives about climate change, making the issue more accessible and emotionally impactful.

The episode also examines the ocean's role in storytelling, its significance to cultural identity, and how its degradation affects communities worldwide. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on how storytelling can be a transformative tool in mobilizing change, preserving cultural heritage, and fostering a collective commitment to protecting our planet.

Link to Tao's Book: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/725301/dark-laboratory-by-tao-leigh-goffe/ 
Website: https://www.taoleighgoffe.com/

Are harmful algal blooms (HABs) endangering whales? In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, we explore how HABs might disorient whales, putting them in dangerous situations. Drawing on insights from studies and an article from Mongabay News, I discuss the science, controversies, and potential conservation solutions.

Tune in to learn more about this critical ocean health issue and what can be done to protect marine life. 

Link to article: https://news.mongabay.com/2025/02/study-suggests-algal-blooms-disorient-whales-putting-them-in-danger/

Polar bears affected by climate change saw the Hudson Bay population decrease from 1,200 individuals to 600 individuals. We explore the alarming decline of polar bear populations in the western part of Hudson Bay, Canada. Scientists have recorded a drastic decrease from 1,200 to 600 individuals, largely due to climate change and the loss of Arctic sea ice. We discuss the impact of rising temperatures, shifting food sources, and conservation efforts to protect these iconic predators. Join us as we uncover the latest research, the challenges ahead, and what can be done to support polar bear conservation in the face of a warming planet.

Link to article: https://abcnews.go.com/US/climate-change-impacted-polar-bear-populations/story?id=118217343

Sustainable alcohol brand, Holistic Spirits Co. gets B Corp status and Amy Holmwood, Founder and CEO of Holistic Spirits Co., is here to talk about how her company is transforming the alcoholic beverage industry through sustainability. Amy shares how Holistic Spirits Co. is committed to ethical sourcing, using natural ingredients, and reducing environmental impact throughout production. The conversation dives into how sustainable practices in the spirits industry can make a positive difference for both consumers and the planet, offering insights on making eco-friendly choices when enjoying your favorite drinks.

Holistic Spirits Co. website: https://drinkholistic.com/ 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/origenholisticspirits/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/holisticspiritsco
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3zDy_Mwi1v3uDTkGPdGxdA

Cold-Stunned sea turtles in Florida needed rescue after they were caught in a cold snap in the ocean.

In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, we dive into the dramatic rescue of 17 sea turtles found cold-stunned off the coast of northern Florida after an unexpected deep freeze. I’ll explain what cold-stunning is, how it affects sea turtles, and why sudden temperature drops are becoming more common. You’ll hear about the incredible efforts of the Loggerhead Marinelife Center in rehabilitating these turtles and helping them recover. Plus, we’ll explore how climate change is impacting sea turtle habitats and migrations—and I’ll share simple actions you can take to protect these amazing creatures and their ocean homes. Stay tuned for an inspiring story of resilience and conservation!

Link to Article: https://apnews.com/article/coldstunned-turtle-florida-4d47d028b94a750b2ca58784b13c1d39