Intact mangroves play a crucial role in protecting ecosystems and acting as nursery habitats, enhancing resilience against waves. Destroying mangroves for shrimp farming results in the loss of essential functions and pollution due to high-density shrimp farming. This practice leads to the excessive use of antibiotics and poor living conditions for the shrimp. Moreover, there are concerns about shrimp being peeled by slaves in Southeast Asia, highlighting ethical issues in the industry. To support sustainability and ethical practices, consumers are advised to inquire about the shrimp's source and opt for domestically farmed shrimp, even if it comes at a higher cost. Choosing responsibly sourced shrimp is crucial for protecting the environment and ensuring ethical practices in the industry.
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? In a conversation with ocean and policy expert Dr. Ayana Johnson, Alie struggles with finding a balance between the wonders and the bummers. For the first 15-20 minutes, 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.
Also: some great information about whale pee.
Dr. Johnson's OceanCollectiv.co
Dr. Johnson's website, Twitter and Instagram
More episode sources and links
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Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris
Theme song by Nick Thorburn