.jpg)
The Ocean Optimism Podcast
Welcome to the Ocean Optimism podcast, where hope and positivity take center stage in the conversation about our oceans. Join host Ellen Spooner, a scientists and storyteller, as she explores the untold stories of how we are already making a difference toward taking care of our ocean. In each episode, Ellen interviews scientists, activists, and leaders who are working tirelessly to preserve and protect our ocean's health.
Did you know that we have already rebuilt 45 stocks of marine fish populations in the U.S. after overfishing? Or that a marine sanctuary in the Galápagos protects the world's highest abundance of sharks? These are just a few examples of the positive steps we are taking to ensure a sustainable future for our oceans.
At Ocean Optimism, we focus on solutions rather than problems and on connections rather than differences. We recognize and respect the many challenges facing our oceans, but we also believe that a constant stream of "doom and gloom" stories will only lead to a sense of hopelessness and inaction.
Our mission is to create a new narrative of hope for our oceans by celebrating success and encouraging collaboration between change-makers. We aim to support people in moving beyond documenting decline and towards taking action to safeguard our oceans.
So join us as we explore the inspiring stories of those who are making a difference in ocean conservation, and learn how you too can become part of the ocean optimism movement. Episodes drop on the last Monday of the month, and you can find out more about Ocean Optimism and how to get involved at www.oceanoptimism.org.
The Ocean Optimism Podcast
10 Years of California's Marine Protected Areas: Signs of Success with Anupa Asokan
In this episode of the Ocean Optimism podcast, host Ellen Spooner interviews Anupa Asokan, Senior Ocean Advocate for the Natural Resource Defense Council (NRDC https://www.nrdc.org/ ). Anupa's extensive experience includes work with the World Surf League, the X Prize Foundation, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). This discussion revolves around the 10 year review process for California's Marine Protected Area (MPA) Network.
The episode emphasizes the significance of long-term monitoring and adaptive management in evaluating the effectiveness of MPAs. Scientific research has shown that protected areas promote biodiversity, increase fish populations, and contribute to ecosystem resilience. Anupa explains that different levels of protection exist within MPAs, with fully protected and highly protected areas offering the greatest benefits.
The interview touches on the pressures facing California's marine ecosystems, including fishing activities, climate change impacts such as kelp forest loss and sea star wasting disease, and water quality issues like nutrient runoff and plastic pollution. Anupa emphasizes the need for compromise, valuing diverse perspectives, and incorporating marginalized communities, such as indigenous tribes, in decision-making processes.
Regarding the ongoing ten-year review of California's MPA Network, Anupa encourages listeners to get involved and support organizations aligned with their values. Supporting nonprofits, volunteering time or expertise, and engaging in conversations about marine conservation are practical ways for individuals to contribute. Anupa also highlights the importance of equitable access to nature, which creates opportunities for more communities to experience and value marine ecosystems.
The episode concludes with a sense of optimism stemming from the recognition of new voices and perspectives in marine conservation and the existence of solutions and tools to address the challenges faced by our oceans. Follow Ocean Optimism on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter @OceanOptimism and on TikTok @EllensOceanOptimism