Episode
91

Ocean Sustainability with Brandon Levy

August 9, 2023
|
Duration:
1767711
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In This Episode:

Join John Pooley, Lysandra Naom, and guest Brandon Levy, Chief Program Officer at Sustainable Ocean Aliance, on an episode all about ocean sustainability! This episode features the importance of the ocean, the impacts of other bodies of water, blue carbon, renewable technologies, and more.

Check out the SOA here: https://www.soalliance.org.

Check out our 360 Carbon Excellence Program.

Highlights

  • Oceans as a Climate Ally: Oceans produce 50% of the world’s oxygen and absorb 30% of carbon emissions, making them vital for climate stability and human survival.
  • Blue Carbon Ecosystems: Coastal ecosystems, such as mangroves and seagrasses, act as significant carbon sinks, capturing carbon at a rate higher than tropical forests, and providing storm protection and habitats for marine life.
  • Threats from Pollution and Overfishing: Plastic pollution and unsustainable fishing practices harm marine biodiversity, creating dead zones and reducing fish populations critical for food security.
  • Role of Sustainable Ocean Alliance: Levy highlights the work of the Sustainable Ocean Alliance, which funds grassroots projects globally, supports young leaders, and promotes high-quality carbon credits with social and environmental co-benefits.
  • Renewable Energy from Oceans: While ocean-based renewables, like offshore wind and tidal energy, provide sustainable energy options, they must be developed responsibly to avoid disrupting marine ecosystems.
  • Key Insights

  • Interconnectedness of Water Systems: Rivers, lakes, and wetlands feed into the ocean, meaning pollutants from land inevitably impact ocean health, making holistic water management essential for conservation efforts.
  • High Potential of Blue Carbon: Mangroves, salt marshes, and seagrass capture carbon more effectively than other ecosystems, showing promise for both climate mitigation and support of local communities.
  • Community-Based Conservation: Projects like “Makoko Pamoja” in Kenya demonstrate how blue carbon initiatives can support local economies and infrastructure, reinforcing the need for community involvement in conservation.
  • Challenges in Carbon Credits: Many carbon credits lack integrity, but blue carbon credits offer additional ecological and social benefits, making them a more sustainable option in carbon offset markets.
  • Consumer Role in Ocean Health: Reducing plastic use, choosing sustainable seafood, and limiting chemical pollutants are ways consumers can contribute to ocean preservation.
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