Episode 9: Sruthi Gurudev – An Hour in the Deep

Today, we will be discussing the importance of ocean conservation with conservationist, Sruthi Gurudev.  According to the National Ocean Service, our oceans cover 70% of the earth’s surface and produce over half of the world’s oxygen and absorb 50 times more carbon than our atmosphere.  As Sylvia Earle, an oceanographer so aptly put; “With every drop of water you drink, every breath you take, you’re connected to the sea.  No matter where on Earth you live.  Most of the oxygen in the atmosphere is generated by the sea.”And right now, our oceans need our attention.  The oceans do so much for us and it is now time we return the favor.  Sylvia Earle also stated; “Many of us ask what can I as one person do, but history shows us that everything good and bad starts because somebody does something or does not do something.”  Sruthi Gurudev is doing something to help our oceans.  She is a passionate ocean conservationist.  While diving in the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, Sruthi recognized the coral was bleached which transformed her understanding of what was really happening to our oceans.  This dive inspired Sruthi to create an e-magazine called An Hour in the Deep, where she gives young conservationists a platform to tell a story while incorporating science about the threats our oceans face.  Sruthi has been recognized as a National Geographic Explorer for her work in ocean conservation.  She is also a youth council member of Reserva: The Youth Land Trust whose mission is to empower young people to make a difference for threatened species and habitats through story-telling, education, and conservation.During this podcast, Sruthi will share her origin story as to how she became a young conservationist and why our youth are critical to helping reshape the way we address conservation.  She will also address issues with overfishing, why marine protected areas are vital for ocean health, and what simple measures we can take to help conserve our oceans. Website: http://www.wildforchange.comTwitter: @WildForChangeFacebook: /wildforchangeInstagram: wildforchange