Podcasts
LifeWatch ERIC S3, E2: Ocean Optimism: restoring health to the Ocean must not wait.
The title ‘Ocean Optimism’ suggests hope in addressing marine conservation issues despite significant challenges like industrialisation, resource exploitation, and climate change impacting ocean health. The UN Decade of Ocean Science (2021-2030) and UN Decade of Ecosystem Restoration aim to combat these issues, yet grassroots efforts are essential for true change. Mike Elliott, a marine biologist, emphasises the necessity for a social revolution in ocean conservation, highlighting the need for commitment to a sustainable energy transition, global funding for ecosystem restoration, and dietary changes. His narrative serves to inspire collective action towards transformative change.
The Nature Recovery Podcast S6, E6: Where the River Meets the Sea: Everything you wanted to know about estuaries but were too afraid to ask
In this episode, Professor Mike Elliott discusses the complexity and importance of estuaries, challenging traditional views that regard them merely as river endings. He addresses the critical pressures – industrialisation, resource depletion, and climate change – affecting coastlines, introduces the “Emerald Economy” concept balancing ecosystem services and societal benefits, and explains the “Estuarine Quality Paradox” regarding organism survival under stress. He also presents the DAPSI(W)R(M) framework for resolving environmental challenges, emphasising the potential for nature’s recovery when pressures are alleviated.