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