The Conch- Anoushka Concepcion

It's crystal clear — seaweed aquaculture is a big part of our future! Seafood harvesters are looking for ways to diversify in the age of climate change, and farming seaweed is the path for many of them. But it certainly has its challenges, as any crop does, and MUST be done sustainably, safely, and ethically. That's where Anoushka Concepcion is helping pave the way. As an associate extension educator with Connecticut Sea Grant, a faculty member at UConn's Department of Cooperative Extension, and a Board Member of Minorities in Aquaculture, Anoushka works intensively with aquaculture communities, sparking conversations so everyone can work together to have seaweed benefit ALL—including growers, regulators, consumers, and kids! Hear all about why aquaculture as an essential path to feeding people high quality proteins with low costs so people of all ages and income levels can access health and wellness on Season 4, Episode 8 of The Conch podcast! Audio Production and Sound Design by Crystal Sanders-Alvarado for Seaworthy. Episode Transcript Episode Guide :00 Intro 01:18 Anoushka Concepcion of Connecticut Sea Grant explains why 34 Sea Grant programs are the boots on the ground for the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). 05:00 What does the term "extension" mean and why is it important in aquaculture? 07:13 Seaweed aquaculture: the challenges are universal but not unique to Connecticut. 11:15 The National Seaweed Hub - what it is and why it's needed 16:09 How are public health concerns and food safety with seaweed aquaculture addressed? 19:51 How a fascination with marine science and a trip to visit family in India launched Anoushka's career supporting seaweed farming and aquaculture production. 22:04 A personal experience with the dangers of kelp farming. 24:35 How climate change affects shellfish and seaweed farms in Connecticut. 29:36 Representation is everything. Why Anoushka joined the board of Minorities in Aquaculture (MIA). 34:07 What the seafood industry must do to support women in the sector. 37:28 Anouska's advice to address inequality in the sector - keep talking about the issues until you find people with the solutions. They're out there! 43:07 Shout out to the absolute bedrock of civilization! Resources: Read more about Anouska's work at Connecticut Sea Grant and the National Seaweed Hub. Recommend this episode to one person who is curious about the multiple benefits of seaweed aquaculture!