The Anglerfish Chronicles

Podcast

Ocean-Archive.org

TBA21–Academy

Podcasts

Ocean-Archive.org

The OCEAN / UNI radio show titled The Anglerfish Chronicles, led by Khadija Stewart explores many of the topics connected to caring for the deep sea through free-flowing conversations, bringing new voices to the conversation and opening up to new ways of sharing.

This series of podcasts was developed as part of the OCEAN / UNI Fall semester 2023: Culturing the Deep Sea: Towards a common heritage for allkind.

The Anglerfish Chronicles

Does the ocean cry with us when we belly flop on her surface? Can you imagine what it feels like to be stuck in a research vessel, plunging to the darkest depths taking snapshots of the deep sea? Is it scary to be immersed in a bathysphere five km under the sea surface? Why are deep sea creatures so mysteriously figured? Can we really mine the deep sea? So many questions with intriguing answers, and who wouldn’t want to hear the exciting stories of the ocean-loving folks, able to answer our curiosities?

Radio Captain Khadija Stewart sets sail between islands and seas, coral reefs, and algal blooms, finding the right people to engage in conversations to shed light on how to connect with the extensive deep ocean—the common heritage of allkind. In a journey of 6 episodes, we explore the world together through a deep ocean lens and uncover the myths, wonders, and threats of the abyss.

The goal of The Anglerfish Chronicles is to complement the live sessions and help spread a sense of love for the Deep Sea with a format that will air on the internet over the holiday season and remain as a shareable trace of these conversations for future use.

Listen to all episodes on Ocean-Archive.org here.


Episode 1: Journeying to the Abyss 

Embark on an enlightening journey with our episode, Journeying to the Abyss, featuring Patrcia Esquete, Oceanographer and Deep Sea Biologist. Together we plunge into the mysteries of the deep sea, define what classifies as the deep sea, and uncover the astonishing ecosystems thriving in its dark and remote realms. From the mesmerizing creatures that call the abyss home to the environmental challenges posed by deep-sea mining, we navigate through uncharted waters to shed light on this fascinating and critical frontier. 

In the first part of this episode, we explore the vastness of the deep sea and what sets it apart from the sunlit surface waters. Delve into the science behind the classification of the deep sea and the incredible adaptations that allow life to flourish in extreme conditions. Discover the diverse and otherworldly ecosystems that exist in the cold, dark depths, from the eerie glow of bioluminescent organisms to the bizarre and elusive species that have evolved to survive in a world without sunlight. 

As we journey deeper, we confront the environmental impacts of deep-sea mining, a controversial practice that has the potential to disrupt these delicate ecosystems. Our expert analyzes the consequences of extracting valuable minerals from the ocean floor and the challenges of mitigating damage to biodiversity. 

In the final segment, we unravel the intricate web of regulations governing deep-sea mining and the pivotal role that science plays in shaping responsible practices.

Listen to the episode here.


Episode 2: Deep Sea Drama

Dive into the mysterious depths of our oceans with our latest episode, Deep Sea Drama, featuring Matthew Gianna, Co-founder and Political and Policy Advisor of the Deep Sea Conservation Coalition. Join us as we explore the history of deep-sea mining, a frontier that has long been hidden beneath the surface of the world's oceans. 

In this episode, we trace the roots of deep-sea mining back to its early days when the idea seemed like science fiction. We'll uncover the challenges faced by greenlighting this industry and shine a light on the controversial aspects of deep-sea mining. 

No discussion on deep-sea mining would be complete without addressing the role of the International Seabed Authority (ISA). Learn about the international governance framework established to regulate deep-sea mining activities. Looking ahead, we delve into the promising prospects of reforming the International Seabed Authority to protect the deep sea and implement a moratorium against the deep sea mining industry.

Listen to the episode here.


Episode 3: Deep Sea Dollars

In this eye-opening episode, Deep Sea Dollars, we dive headfirst into the often-overlooked financial landscape of deep-sea mining. Joining me is Bobbi-Jo Dobush, Legal Officer at The Ocean Foundation. Together we illuminate the complex web of financial liabilities and risks associated with extracting minerals from the ocean floor. From the economic promises to the potential pitfalls, we explore the financial dimensions that shape the future of deep-sea mining. 

First, we debunk deep-sea mining as a proponent of the sustainable blue economy and unpack the economic allure of deep-sea mining and the potential windfalls that lie beneath the waves. The glittering promise of deep-sea mining is accompanied by a shadow of financial uncertainties and risks. We dissect the intricacies of investment in this high-stakes industry, examining the financial liabilities that mining companies face. From the challenges of developing and deploying advanced technologies to the unpredictability of resource extraction, we explore the factors that contribute to the financial volatility of deep-sea mining ventures. 

Environmental and regulatory risks take center stage as we investigate the financial implications of responsible resource extraction. How do companies navigate the delicate balance between profitability and sustainability? What financial safeguards are in place to address potential ecological damages and mitigate long-term liabilities? Join us as we unravel the economic complexities and ethical considerations that shape the financial landscape of deep-sea mining.

Listen to the episode here.


Episode 4: Common Heritage of Man Kind

The thought-provoking fourth episode of The Anglerfish Chronicles delves into the complex and often overlooked topic of the common heritage of mankind* in the context of deep-sea mining. Join us as we navigate the murky waters of international law, colonial legacies, and environmental ethics to explore how the concept of common heritage intersects with the urgent need to decolonize the ocean and break historic systems of exploitation.

We'll unravel the historical roots of deep-sea mining and its connection to colonial practices, shedding light on how marginalized communities and Indigenous peoples have disproportionately borne the brunt of environmental degradation and resource extraction. This episode sparks crucial conversations about the need to challenge entrenched power structures and center the voices of those most affected by ocean exploitation. Tune in as we explore the intersection of environmental justice, decolonization, and the common heritage of mankind, offering hope and inspiration for a more equitable and sustainable future for our oceans.

*Editor's note: “Common Heritage of Mankind” is a legal term using the noun “mankind” as a generic masculine form of the preferred “humankind”. As the term is used in this form in the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, we have opted for the generic masculine in the title and text to ensure clarity in reference.

Listen to the episode here.


Episode 5: The Next Generation of Ocean Stewards part 1 & 2

This episode dives deep into the critical role of youth engagement in safeguarding the oceans against the threats posed by deep-sea mining. Join us as we explore the intersection of youth activism, environmental stewardship, and ocean conservation, and the pivotal role that organizations like the Sustainable Ocean Alliance (SOA) play in nurturing the next generation of young ocean leaders.

Through interviews with passionate young activists and visionary leaders, we uncover the power of youth voices in advocating for ocean protection and challenging the status quo of destructive mining practices. We delve into the innovative initiatives spearheaded by SOA and other youth-led organizations, from grassroots campaigns to policy advocacy, that are driving tangible change in the fight against deep-sea mining.

Through inspiring stories of resilience, determination, and collective action, this episode shines a spotlight on the transformative impact of youth engagement in shaping a more sustainable future for our oceans. Join us as we celebrate the vital role of young ocean leaders and explore how their dedication and passion are driving meaningful progress toward ocean protection and conservation.

Listen to the part 1 here.

Listen to the part 2 here.






 
 

EPISODES

Listen to all episodes on Ocean-Archive.org here.


Episode 1: Journeying to the Abyss 

Embark on an enlightening journey with our episode, Journeying to the Abyss, featuring Patrcia Esquete, Oceanographer and Deep Sea Biologist. Together we plunge into the mysteries of the deep sea, define what classifies as the deep sea, and uncover the astonishing ecosystems thriving in its dark and remote realms. From the mesmerizing creatures that call the abyss home to the environmental challenges posed by deep-sea mining, we navigate through uncharted waters to shed light on this fascinating and critical frontier. 

In the first part of this episode, we explore the vastness of the deep sea and what sets it apart from the sunlit surface waters. Delve into the science behind the classification of the deep sea and the incredible adaptations that allow life to flourish in extreme conditions. Discover the diverse and otherworldly ecosystems that exist in the cold, dark depths, from the eerie glow of bioluminescent organisms to the bizarre and elusive species that have evolved to survive in a world without sunlight. 

As we journey deeper, we confront the environmental impacts of deep-sea mining, a controversial practice that has the potential to disrupt these delicate ecosystems. Our expert analyzes the consequences of extracting valuable minerals from the ocean floor and the challenges of mitigating damage to biodiversity. 

In the final segment, we unravel the intricate web of regulations governing deep-sea mining and the pivotal role that science plays in shaping responsible practices.

Listen to the episode here.


Episode 2: Deep Sea Drama

Dive into the mysterious depths of our oceans with our latest episode, Deep Sea Drama, featuring Matthew Gianna, Co-founder and Political and Policy Advisor of the Deep Sea Conservation Coalition. Join us as we explore the history of deep-sea mining, a frontier that has long been hidden beneath the surface of the world's oceans. 

In this episode, we trace the roots of deep-sea mining back to its early days when the idea seemed like science fiction. We'll uncover the challenges faced by greenlighting this industry and shine a light on the controversial aspects of deep-sea mining. 

No discussion on deep-sea mining would be complete without addressing the role of the International Seabed Authority (ISA). Learn about the international governance framework established to regulate deep-sea mining activities. Looking ahead, we delve into the promising prospects of reforming the International Seabed Authority to protect the deep sea and implement a moratorium against the deep sea mining industry.

Listen to the episode here.


Episode 3: Deep Sea Dollars

In this eye-opening episode, Deep Sea Dollars, we dive headfirst into the often-overlooked financial landscape of deep-sea mining. Joining me is Bobbi-Jo Dobush, Legal Officer at The Ocean Foundation. Together we illuminate the complex web of financial liabilities and risks associated with extracting minerals from the ocean floor. From the economic promises to the potential pitfalls, we explore the financial dimensions that shape the future of deep-sea mining. 

First, we debunk deep-sea mining as a proponent of the sustainable blue economy and unpack the economic allure of deep-sea mining and the potential windfalls that lie beneath the waves. The glittering promise of deep-sea mining is accompanied by a shadow of financial uncertainties and risks. We dissect the intricacies of investment in this high-stakes industry, examining the financial liabilities that mining companies face. From the challenges of developing and deploying advanced technologies to the unpredictability of resource extraction, we explore the factors that contribute to the financial volatility of deep-sea mining ventures. 

Environmental and regulatory risks take center stage as we investigate the financial implications of responsible resource extraction. How do companies navigate the delicate balance between profitability and sustainability? What financial safeguards are in place to address potential ecological damages and mitigate long-term liabilities? Join us as we unravel the economic complexities and ethical considerations that shape the financial landscape of deep-sea mining.

Listen to the episode here.


Episode 4: Common Heritage of Man Kind

The thought-provoking fourth episode of The Anglerfish Chronicles delves into the complex and often overlooked topic of the common heritage of mankind* in the context of deep-sea mining. Join us as we navigate the murky waters of international law, colonial legacies, and environmental ethics to explore how the concept of common heritage intersects with the urgent need to decolonize the ocean and break historic systems of exploitation.

We'll unravel the historical roots of deep-sea mining and its connection to colonial practices, shedding light on how marginalized communities and Indigenous peoples have disproportionately borne the brunt of environmental degradation and resource extraction. This episode sparks crucial conversations about the need to challenge entrenched power structures and center the voices of those most affected by ocean exploitation. Tune in as we explore the intersection of environmental justice, decolonization, and the common heritage of mankind, offering hope and inspiration for a more equitable and sustainable future for our oceans.

*Editor's note: “Common Heritage of Mankind” is a legal term using the noun “mankind” as a generic masculine form of the preferred “humankind”. As the term is used in this form in the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, we have opted for the generic masculine in the title and text to ensure clarity in reference.

Listen to the episode here.


Episode 5: The Next Generation of Ocean Stewards part 1 & 2

This episode dives deep into the critical role of youth engagement in safeguarding the oceans against the threats posed by deep-sea mining. Join us as we explore the intersection of youth activism, environmental stewardship, and ocean conservation, and the pivotal role that organizations like the Sustainable Ocean Alliance (SOA) play in nurturing the next generation of young ocean leaders.

Through interviews with passionate young activists and visionary leaders, we uncover the power of youth voices in advocating for ocean protection and challenging the status quo of destructive mining practices. We delve into the innovative initiatives spearheaded by SOA and other youth-led organizations, from grassroots campaigns to policy advocacy, that are driving tangible change in the fight against deep-sea mining.

Through inspiring stories of resilience, determination, and collective action, this episode shines a spotlight on the transformative impact of youth engagement in shaping a more sustainable future for our oceans. Join us as we celebrate the vital role of young ocean leaders and explore how their dedication and passion are driving meaningful progress toward ocean protection and conservation.

Listen to the part 1 here.

Listen to the part 2 here.






 
 

Khadija Stewart is an enthusiastic ocean and climate storyteller passionate about inspiring behaviour change. She holds a BSc in Environmental and Natural Resource Management, an MSc in Sustainable Development with Management Studies and a 2nd MSc in Climate Change and Development from the University of London. Throughout her environmental journey, she has participated in the World Water Forum, Peace Boat Ocean and Climate Youth Ambassador Program, the Our Ocean Youth Leadership Summit in Oslo, The UN Ocean Conference in Lisbon 2022 and the Our Ocean Conference in Panama 2023. Presently, she is the founder of Ecovybz Environmental Creatives a company focused on educating the public through environmental content creation and powerful storytelling initiatives focused on Climate Change and Ocean Conservation. At the core of her work is the youth and equipping them with the knowledge to be effective agents of change. She is also the host of the EcoVybz Podcast and the Caribbean Regional Representative for Sustainable Ocean Alliance with the Deep Sea Mining portfolio.
 

MODERATOR

Khadija Stewart is an enthusiastic ocean and climate storyteller passionate about inspiring behaviour change. She holds a BSc in Environmental and Natural Resource Management, an MSc in Sustainable Development with Management Studies and a 2nd MSc in Climate Change and Development from the University of London. Throughout her environmental journey, she has participated in the World Water Forum, Peace Boat Ocean and Climate Youth Ambassador Program, the Our Ocean Youth Leadership Summit in Oslo, The UN Ocean Conference in Lisbon 2022 and the Our Ocean Conference in Panama 2023. Presently, she is the founder of Ecovybz Environmental Creatives a company focused on educating the public through environmental content creation and powerful storytelling initiatives focused on Climate Change and Ocean Conservation. At the core of her work is the youth and equipping them with the knowledge to be effective agents of change. She is also the host of the EcoVybz Podcast and the Caribbean Regional Representative for Sustainable Ocean Alliance with the Deep Sea Mining portfolio.
 

OCEAN / UNI is an initiative dedicated to art, activism, and science that invites fluid thinking with the Ocean as a way to move beyond the binaries of land and sea. OCEAN / UNI's curriculum provides students, researchers, and the public access to wide-ranging ideas and explorations through regular live sessions, reading groups, small-scale workshops or activations, and other online material, free and accessible to everyone on Ocean-Archive.org 

Aiming to complement and enhance land-based understanding of the Earth, it covers a wide range of ecological, political, aesthetic, ethical, and scientific topics around the realities and futures of the Ocean.

ABOUT OCEAN / UNI

OCEAN / UNI is an initiative dedicated to art, activism, and science that invites fluid thinking with the Ocean as a way to move beyond the binaries of land and sea. OCEAN / UNI's curriculum provides students, researchers, and the public access to wide-ranging ideas and explorations through regular live sessions, reading groups, small-scale workshops or activations, and other online material, free and accessible to everyone on Ocean-Archive.org 

Aiming to complement and enhance land-based understanding of the Earth, it covers a wide range of ecological, political, aesthetic, ethical, and scientific topics around the realities and futures of the Ocean.

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