Instant Genius How the health of the oceans is vital for the health of the planet
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Aug 31, 2025 
Philippe Cousteau Jr., an oceanographer and grandson of legendary explorer Jacques Cousteau, dives deep into the vital role oceans play in our planet's health. He discusses how the oceans regulate our climate and support life, despite the alarming state they’re in due to pollution and overfishing. Cousteau highlights innovative solutions for coral restoration and the need for urgent collective action. Emphasizing education, he advocates for empowering the next generation to protect this essential resource for our future.
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Inspired By A Grandfather's Legacy
- Philippe recounts growing up inspired by his grandfather Jacques Cousteau and the invention of scuba diving.
- He says he never felt pressure to top that legacy, but aimed to honor it through meaningful work.
Ocean At The Heart Of Climate
- The ocean is central to Earth's climate and is driving most sea level rise and changing weather patterns.
- Philippe Cousteau Jr. warns we undervalue the ocean as both victim and ally in climate solutions.
Ocean Crises Have Broad Societal Costs
- Climate change, biodiversity collapse, and overfishing are interconnected ocean crises with global economic impacts.
- Philippe highlights fisheries collapse causing social upheaval like migration and political instability.