The Importance of Changing Our Behavior for the Ocean

01/19/24 • 23 min

Andrew Lewin explores the need for radical change in our energy consumption AND the way we purchase anything to combat climate change. He discusses the communication work of Sage Lenier, a TikToker who highlights the importance of renewable energy sources. Andrew discusses the challenges of changing our lifestyles and emphasizes the collective responsibility to protect the ocean.

Tune in to learn more about the role of TikTok in raising awareness and taking action for a better ocean.

Sage's TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sagelenier

Follow a career in conservation: https://www.conservation-careers.com/online-training/ Use the code SUFB to get 33% off courses and the careers program. Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3NmYvsI

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

The episode emphasizes the urgent need for radical change in our lifestyles and consumption habits. It highlights that the current thinking and practices of both companies and individuals are unsustainable, and it is high time for a transformation. The host emphasizes that transitioning to renewable energy sources like solar panels and windmills is not enough; we must also revolutionize our thought processes and way of life. This includes spending more time outdoors, reconnecting with nature, and recognizing the benefits of a healthy natural environment. The episode also delves into the significance of purchasing sustainable materials and products, while shedding light on the long-term detrimental effects of poorly made and unethical products on both individuals and the environment. It emphasizes that the need for change extends beyond the fashion industry and encompasses all aspects of our lives, such as reducing meat consumption and minimizing unnecessary plastic use. Overall, the episode advocates for a shift towards a nature-oriented lifestyle and a conscious approach to consumption.

In the episode, the importance of purchasing sustainable materials and products is underscored. The speaker points out that although poorly made and ethically questionable clothes may appear appealing in the short term, they ultimately harm both individuals and the environment in the long run. It is emphasized that not only the fashion industry, but also other industries that utilize plastics or unnecessary resources, contribute to the adverse impact on the environment.

The speaker further discusses the need to go beyond the renewable energy sector and focus on transforming our consumption patterns. It is argued that companies should be held accountable for creating products sustainably and ethically, taking into consideration labor exploitation in the production process. The globalization of product manufacturing, particularly in countries like China and Africa, has made it challenging to exert influence over specific regulations and ensure ethical practices.

Furthermore, the episode highlights that purchasing sustainable materials and products can significantly reduce an individual's environmental footprint. By abstaining from buying clothes made from inferior materials or reliant on petroleum, individuals can contribute to minimizing their impact on the environment. However, it acknowledges that finding and affording sustainable clothing is not easy, and a substantial educational campaign is necessary to raise awareness about the sustainability of the products we purchase.

Overall, the episode underscores the importance of purchasing sustainable materials and products, as they are not only more cost-effective in the long run but also have a positive impact on the environment and labor practices. It calls for a shift in our consumption patterns and emphasizes the need for companies to adopt sustainable and ethical practices in their production processes.

The episode emphasizes the need for behavioral change to benefit both ourselves and the planet. It specifically highlights the significance of reducing meat consumption by 75% and opting for plant-based protein alternatives. By doing so, we can significantly decrease the greenhouse gas emissions generated by the meat industry, which is a major contributor to climate change. The episode emphasizes that this message is supported by scientists and individuals advocating for climate action. It also acknowledges that making such a change will require a shift in mindset and education. Additionally, the episode mentions that changing our behavior extends beyond just reducing meat consumption. It encompasse...

Tune in to learn more about the role of TikTok in raising awareness and taking action for a better ocean.

Sage's TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sagelenier

Follow a career in conservation: https://www.conservation-careers.com/online-training/ Use the code SUFB to get 33% off courses and the careers program. Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3NmYvsI

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

Previous Episode

Neil the Seal is an icon for elephant seals

Andrew Lewin interviews Sophia Volzke, an expert on elephant seals, specifically focusing on Neil the seal, who has become a viral sensation on TikTok. They discuss Neil's behavior, his interaction with humans, and the questions surrounding his safety and return to the ocean. They also touch on the broader topic of elephant seal conservation in Tasmania. Sophia shares her background and journey from Germany to Australia, where she studied marine biology.

Tune in to learn more about Neil the Seal and the fascinating world of elephant seal conservation.

Follow a career in conservation: https://www.conservation-careers.com/online-training/ Use the code SUFB to get 33% off courses and the careers program. Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3NmYvsI

Connect with Speak Up For Blue: Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc

The episode explores the advantages of working a full-time job before pursuing further education. The speaker shares their personal experience of working part-time while studying, which they found to be beneficial. They believe that juggling work and school made them more focused and appreciative of their education. They didn't take their studies for granted because they had worked hard to reach their goals. Additionally, the speaker highlights the transferable skills gained from their full-time job, such as people management and teamwork, which have proven valuable in their academic pursuits. They emphasize the importance of communication and project coordination skills acquired from their job, which have greatly contributed to their work in the field of science. Overall, the episode suggests that working a full-time job before pursuing further education can provide valuable skills and experiences that enhance academic studies.

In the episode, the guest speaker emphasizes the significance of having a clear plan and focus to make the undergraduate and graduate experience more enjoyable and fulfilling. Initially uncertain about their career path, the speaker discovered their specific field of interest during their three years of undergraduate studies. This newfound focus allowed them to make the most of their undergraduate experience.

Furthermore, the guest speaker highlights the benefits of acquiring transferable skills through full-time employment before pursuing further studies. They emphasize the value of skills such as people management and teamwork, which have greatly aided them in their current academic pursuits. These skills have enabled effective communication of scientific concepts and coordination with multiple supervisors, enhancing their overall graduate experience.

Additionally, the guest speaker shares their personal experience of working for a period after completing their undergraduate studies. This experience provided them with focus and readiness for their graduate studies, as they had a clear plan and knew their preferences. This underscores the importance of having a clear direction and goals to maximize the fulfillment of the graduate experience.

Overall, the episode suggests that having a specific plan and focus can significantly enhance the undergraduate and graduate experience. It allows individuals to make the most of their studies, gain valuable skills, and have a clearer sense of purpose and direction in their academic pursuits.

The episode also emphasizes the importance of cultivating strong relationships with supervisors, committees, and colleagues in a PhD program. The speakers highlight that establishing positive working relationships with these individuals is crucial for success in a PhD program.

One speaker shares their experience of having a supportive team and supervisors, which is why they continue to work with them. They intentionally sought out the right people to work with and carefully curated their team. They express surprise at the notion of people joining a project without knowing who they will be working with, as they believe that the team dynamic is just as important as the project itself.

Another speaker shares their perspective on the significance of having a strong team. They mention that although no one explicitly told them to prioritize building a good team, it was something they instinctively understood. Drawing from their previous work experience in hospitality, where relationship-building and people management were crucial, they emphasize the importance of meeting and getting to know the individuals they would be working with from the beginning.

Overall, the episode underscores the importance of building strong relationships with supervisors, committees, and colleagues for success in a PhD progra...

Next Episode

Critically Endangered North Atlantic Right Whale Calf struck by ship and is expected to die: speed limits need to be enforced

Andrew Lewin discusses the urgent need to slow down and enforce more slowdowns of boats along the Atlantic coast after a Northern Atlantic Right whale calf was struck by a ship. The devastating news of a North Atlantic right whale calf being struck by a ship and expected to die highlights the critical situation faced by these endangered whales. With only 356 individuals remaining, action must be taken to protect them.

Tune in to learn more about the importance of speaking up for the ocean and taking steps to ensure its preservation.

Link to article: https://newjerseymonitor.com/2023/10/19/speeding-ships-threaten-extinction-of-north-atlantic-right-whales-study-warns/

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

In the episode, it was mentioned that Puget Sound in Washington had undergone a temporary closure or slowdown to safeguard the Southern Resident Orca populations. The episode also introduced a woman affiliated with a marine transportation organization who was part of an effort to protect these orcas by examining the impact of speed. The organization proposed a voluntary slowdown project in Puget Sound, specifically in areas frequented by the orcas, for a duration of eight weeks. The project received widespread support and was successfully implemented. The results of this project are expected to be available later in the summer.

The episode further discusses the urgent need for more boat slowdowns along the Atlantic coast to protect the critically endangered North Atlantic right whales. With only 356 individuals remaining, immediate action is crucial to prevent further harm to this species. The episode highlights a recent incident where a North Atlantic right whale calf was struck by a ship, emphasizing the urgency of the situation and the need for protective measures.

One of the main reasons why North Atlantic right whales are particularly vulnerable to ship strikes is their slower swimming speed. Additionally, their tendency to stay just below the water's surface makes it challenging for boats to detect them. The episode explains that these whales lack a dorsal fin, further complicating their visibility. Therefore, enforcing boat slowdowns is essential to reduce the risk of collisions with these endangered animals.

The episode also emphasizes the importance of slow zones, designated areas where boats are required to reduce their speed, in protecting North Atlantic right whales. However, it notes that these slow zones need to be regularly updated to align with the whales' current migration and feeding patterns. Climate change has caused shifts in the whales' routes, potentially due to changes in ocean currents and temperature. Consequently, adjusting the slow zones accordingly is crucial to ensure effective protection for the whales.

Furthermore, the episode highlights a study conducted by Oceana, an ocean conservation advocacy group, which revealed a significant lack of compliance with mandatory slowdowns in areas correlated to whale migration and feeding patterns. The study found that 84% of boats over 65 feet long and 82% of boats in areas with temporary slowdowns were exceeding the speed limits. This lack of adherence underscores the need for improved communication and engagement with boaters to raise awareness about the importance of slowdowns and the reasons behind them.

In conclusion, the episode underscores the urgent need for more boat slowdowns along the Atlantic coast to protect the critically endangered North Atlantic right whales. The small population size of these whales and their susceptibility to ship strikes necessitate immediate action. Updating and enforcing slow zones, as well as improving communication with boaters, are essential steps in safeguarding the survival of this critically endangered species.

The survival of whales is being impacted by closures of specific areas for crabbing, shrimping, and lobstering. These closures are a response to the changing migration patterns of whales caused by ocean warming and climate changes. Monitoring the survivability of whales passing through these areas is crucial, and the closures aim to protect their migration patterns. However, enforcing these closures and implementing regulations is a challenging task that requires time to take effect. C...