Why the UN declared an Ocean Decade -

The United Nations Ocean Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030) is more than a global framework—it’s a chance to rethink how science informs action. In this episode, Alison Clausen, Deputy Global Coordinator of the Ocean Decade at UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission, explains what the Decade is aiming to achieve by 2030 and how its legacy will carry forward. We discuss the role of Indigenous and local knowledge, the meaning of “success” beyond the ten-year mark, and how upcoming international ocean conferences fit into the bigger picture. Whether you’re just hearing about the Ocean Decade for the first time or looking for context behind the headlines, this conversation offers a clear and timely introduction.

Episode Guest: Alison Clausen

Ocean Decade Website Here

10 Ocean Decade Challenges

Ocean Decade Actions

GenOcean to get involved in the Ocean Decade

Nice Ocean Conference Outcome Document here

Follow the UN Ocean Decade on Instagram @unoceandecade and LinkedIn here

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Episode Transcript and more information on the Pine Forest Media website

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Hosted, produced, and edited by Clark Marchese

Cover art by Jomiro Eming

Theme music by Nela Ruiz

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New tech is making waves in marine science. In this debut episode of Oceanography, we dive into the world of innovative fishing gear designed to protect endangered species—especially the North Atlantic right whale. Guest Megan Amico, a fisheries biologist with NOAA, shares how scientists and fishermen are working together to reduce harmful bycatch through smart design, including on-demand lobster traps and turtle excluder devices. It’s a story of unlikely partnerships, inventive problem-solving, and measurable success. If you care about marine life, sustainable fisheries, or just love a good science story, this is one you won’t want to miss. Learn how collaboration is helping coastal communities thrive while giving ocean wildlife a fighting chance.

Episode Guest: Megan Amico

Learn more about Megan Amico here

NOAA Protected Species Gear Research: Visit Here

NOAA’s Endangered Species List and Action Plans: Browse List

Support the science communication and Pine Forest Media on Patreon

Episode Transcript and more information on the Pine Forest Media website

Follow Pine Forest Media on Instagram @pineforestmedia

Hosted, produced, and edited by Clark Marchese

Cover art by Jomiro Eming

Theme music by Nela Ruiz

Listen to South Pole on Spotify or Apple Podcasts

Listen to Plastic Podcast on Spotify or Apple Podcasts

Listen to Something in the Water on Spotify or Apple Podcasts

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oceanography is a marine science podcast about the research happening beneath the surface—literally. It’s where your favorite science 101 class meets environmental journalism, with weekly conversations featuring marine biologists, oceanographers, and climate scientists from around the world. One week we might explore whale communication or how sound travels underwater; the next, we’re looking at fishing gear designed to protect endangered species. You'll also hear about ocean conservation, deep sea ecosystems, microplastic pollution, and the surprising ways marine life is connected to life on land. If you're curious about the ocean and want to hear from the people uncovering its secrets, you’re in the right place.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.