How Protecting Whales and Dolphins Can Help Combat Climate Change (A discussion at COP28)

In this episode of the How to Protect the Ocean podcast, host Andrew Lewin discusses the surprising connection between whales, dolphins, and climate change. He shares insights from COP28 in Dubai, where the critical role of ocean animals in reducing greenhouse gases was highlighted. Lewin explores how these marine mammals can capture and store carbon, shedding light on the importance of protecting them for the sake of the environment.

Tune in to discover the unexpected ways in which whales and dolphins contribute to the fight against climate change.

Link to article: https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/whales-dolphins-could-help-save-31624331

According to the podcast episode, whales and dolphins possess the remarkable ability to combat climate change by capturing and storing carbon. This topic is currently being discussed at COP28 in Dubai, where the critical role of ocean animals, particularly marine mammals like whales, in capturing and storing carbon to fight climate change is being highlighted. The episode also emphasizes that protecting whales and dolphins can effectively reduce greenhouse gases. The whale and dolphin conservation group advocates for recognizing these ocean giants as a solution to the climate change crisis, with a role just as crucial as rainforests. The report "Whales in Hot Water" warns that climate change is adversely affecting whale populations by undermining their health and reproductive capabilities. It identifies warming oceans as a significant threat to numerous animal species.

Dr. Sylvia Earle stresses the importance of safeguarding ocean habitats and draws attention to the damage caused by climate change. She firmly believes that an ocean teeming with whales and dolphins can play a vital role in combating climate change. Dr. Earle argues that it is imperative for people to comprehend the potential loss if habitats continue to be destroyed. She urges action at COP28 to raise awareness about the detrimental effects of climate change on oceans and the potential of healthy oceans to mitigate climate change.

The episode also explores the connection between a healthy ocean and the well-being of marine animals. It emphasizes that protecting the ocean from various threats, including climate change, is essential for maintaining healthy populations of whales, dolphins, and other marine mammals. Additionally, thriving populations of phytoplankton, corals, seagrasses, mangroves, and salt marshes contribute significantly to reducing climate change.

The episode highlights the decline in krill populations, which serve as a major food source for baleen whales in the Southern Ocean. The decrease in krill has resulted in changes in animal migration patterns and prey selection. The WDC report underscores the need to protect these animals and emphasizes the role of whales and dolphins as a lifeline in the battle against climate change.

Overall, the episode underscores the significance of preserving ocean habitats and addressing climate change to ensure the well-being of marine animals and mitigate the effects of climate change.

The podcast actively encourages listeners to share their thoughts on protecting marine mammals and to take action for ocean conservation. The host expresses a desire to hear from listeners about their strategies for protecting whales, dolphins, and marine mammals in their respective countries. Furthermore, the host encourages listeners to share the podcast with others who may have an interest in learning more. This indicates that the podcast aims to engage its audience and inspire them to actively participate in protecting marine mammals and conserving the ocean.