Oceanology (THE OCEAN) with Ayana Johnson: Encore Presentation
Aug 18, 2020
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Ocean and policy expert, Dr. Ayana Johnson, discusses the wonders and challenges of the ocean. From weird ocean trivia to the sad stuff like ocean health, climate change, acidification, and pollution, she provides tools and information to help understand and save our friend, the World Ocean. Topics include coral reefs, sustainable seafood choices, scuba diving vs. snorkeling, the impact of plastic waste, and a garbage gobbling machine called the Trash Wheel.
Reducing plastic waste and implementing sustainable practices is crucial for ocean health.
While efforts to ban plastic straws are important, the focus should be on overall plastic waste reduction.
Taking collective action and advocating for change can lead to positive impacts on the ocean and the planet.
Deep dives
The state of the ocean
The ocean has been severely impacted by pollution, overfishing, and climate change. Carbon dioxide emissions have led to acidification and warming of the ocean, affecting marine life. Overfishing has depleted fish populations, and coastal development has destroyed important habitats. Plastic pollution is a significant problem, with one ton of plastic entering the ocean every four seconds. Beach cleanups help raise awareness, but the focus should be on preventing the flow of plastic into the ocean and implementing sustainable practices. While technology for ocean cleanup is promising, preventing plastic from entering the ocean in the first place is a more effective approach.
The impact of plastic straws
Plastic straws are a major contributor to plastic pollution in the ocean. They cannot be recycled due to their small size, and they are one of the top items found in beach cleanups. Straws often end up in the ocean, leading to environmental damage. While efforts to ban plastic straws and reduce their use are important, the larger focus should be on reducing overall plastic waste and implementing sustainable practices.
Positive changes and solutions
While the state of the ocean is concerning, there is hope. Many countries and organizations are taking action to reduce plastic pollution and address other challenges. Initiatives like the UN's Clean Seas Initiative and plastic bans in various countries are encouraging signs. Shifting to sustainable practices, such as demanding recyclable products and improving recycling infrastructure, can have a significant impact. It is crucial to focus on prevention, as cleanups alone are not enough. By raising awareness and advocating for change at a larger scale, positive changes can be achieved.
The importance of individual actions
While systemic changes are necessary, individual actions can also make a difference. Reducing plastic consumption, using reusable items, and supporting sustainable practices are important steps. It is vital to choose sustainable alternatives and support businesses and policies that prioritize environmental protection. By collectively taking action and holding corporations and governments accountable, a positive impact on the ocean and the planet can be achieved.
The Great Pacific Garbage Patch and Solutions
The Great Pacific Garbage Patch exists due to ocean currents that collect plastic debris. The patch is not an actual island but rather a high concentration of small plastic pieces. Similar garbage patches exist in every major ocean gyre. To address the issue, it is important to lobby for changes in corporate and government practices regarding plastic. Supporting conservation groups, such as Lonely Whale and the Ocean Conservancy, can also help contribute to the solution. Additionally, low-tech solutions like the invention of Mr. Trash Wheel, a floating garbage collecting apparatus, show promise in preventing plastic from reaching the oceans.
Individual Action and Sustainable Seafood
Individuals can make a difference by voting for politicians who support environmental issues and advocating for ocean-friendly policies. Limiting the use of single-use plastics and choosing sustainable seafood options, such as farmed shellfish and low-on-the-food-chain fish like sardines and anchovies, are effective ways to reduce our impact on the oceans. Engaging in beach or river cleanups, supporting ocean conservation organizations, and spreading awareness about the importance of oceans are also valuable actions.
With some fresh updates, ocean and policy expert Dr. Ayana Johnson guests in an encore presentation of a fan favorite episode. Hear updates from her, learn about her new podcast “How to Save a Planet,” and what she’s been up to since this episode originally aired in 2018. Are plastic straws really that bad? What's the oldest message in a bottle? Any scuba vs. snorkel strategies? Does sunscreen kill coral? Can we reverse ocean warming in our lifetime? Alie struggles with finding a balance between the wonders and the bummers, and in the first 20 or so minutes, we’ll learn weird ocean trivia, why we love the sea, and facts about the ocean's depths and beauty. Then, we get to the sad stuff: ocean health, climate change, acidification, pollution, policy and what we can all do.
If you've been feeling helpless, this episode gives you all the tools you need to understand and help our friend, the World Ocean.