British biologist David Attenborough is celebrating his 99th birthday just two days after the release of his latest book, Ocean: Earth’s Last Wilderness. Instead of opting for cakes and presents, I propose we focus on the United Nations High Sea Treaty to curb the exploitation of our oceans for short-term gains.
Ocean complements a National Geographic film of the same name, available on the Disney family of streaming services. Prepare to be amazed by breathtaking views of the aquatic world that covers two-thirds of our planet’s surface and “99% of the habitable region.” If you can’t wait for the film, Attenborough’s soothing narration, paired with stunning high-resolution imagery from the deep blue, makes this book an excellent teaser.
Exploring eight distinct saltwater habitats, the book takes readers on a journey through coral reefs, the open ocean, kelp forests, mangroves, marine islands, and the Southern Ocean. Each chapter opens with anecdotes from Attenborough’s lifelong exploration, including his first scuba diving experience in 1957, where he was so amazed by the underwater spectacle that he momentarily forgot to breathe. From there, he delves into a wealth of scientific insights and historical context about each habitat.
Whether you’re a trivia enthusiast or simply curious about marine life, you’ll find plenty of intriguing facts. At the end of each chapter, there’s a delightful game titled “Do you know?” to enjoy with friends and family. For instance, did you know that the ocean’s average depth is 3,500 meters (11,483 feet), that phytoplankton absorbs 40% of human-generated carbon dioxide, and that a blue whale’s tongue can weigh up to two tons?
While the book discusses the effects of global warming on ocean ecosystems, it’s not all doom and gloom. Each chapter often concludes with a hopeful case study, such as the Cabo Pulmo reef off Baja California. Once devastated by overfishing in the 1980s, this area rebounded over the next decade when local fishermen collaborated with marine biologists to establish it as a no-fishing zone, eventually turning it into a marine sanctuary.
My hope is that reading and watching The Sea will elevate global awareness necessary to safeguard this last wilderness.
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Source: apnews.com