theglobeandmail.com
Photographers' Images Spur Global Ocean Conservation Efforts
Award-winning photographers Shane Gross and Cristina Mittermeier use their images to advocate for global ocean conservation, highlighting the threats from climate change and the importance of the UN global ocean treaty; their efforts led to the protection of the Bahamas' Seahorse National Park.
- What is the primary impact of photographers Shane Gross and Cristina Mittermeier's work on global marine conservation efforts?
- Award-winning photographers Shane Gross and Cristina Mittermeier are using their images to advocate for global marine conservation, highlighting the threats to oceans from climate change and the importance of the UN global ocean treaty. Their work has directly resulted in the protection of the Seahorse National Park in the Bahamas, a haven for 800,000 seahorses, after a decade-long campaign.
- How do Gross and Mittermeier's photographic strategies balance aesthetic appeal with the urgent need to highlight environmental degradation?
- Gross and Mittermeier's photography emphasizes the interconnectedness of marine ecosystems, illustrating how creatures and currents disregard human borders. This approach underscores the need for international cooperation to protect oceans beyond national jurisdictions, advocating for the implementation of the UN global ocean treaty to regulate currently lawless areas.
- What are the long-term implications of the UN global ocean treaty for marine conservation and how can photography support its implementation and success?
- The photographers' combined use of impactful imagery and scientific data effectively persuades policymakers and the public. Their SeaLegacy foundation leverages this strategy to showcase both the beauty and the degradation of marine environments, fostering engagement and driving conservation efforts. Future success hinges on continued public awareness and support for global ocean governance.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The framing is largely positive and focuses on the potential of photography to inspire change and the success stories of conservation efforts. This positive framing, while motivating, might unintentionally downplay the urgency and scale of the problems facing the oceans. The headline, if there was one, would likely emphasize the positive aspects of the photographers' work.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral and informative. While terms like "horrific" and "painful truths" are used to describe environmental damage, they are used contextually and don't appear to be overly loaded or manipulative.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses primarily on the photographers' work and their efforts to raise awareness about ocean conservation. While it mentions the global oceans treaty and the importance of kelp forests, it omits discussion of other crucial aspects of ocean conservation, such as overfishing, pollution, and the impact of specific industries. The lack of broader context might limit the reader's understanding of the multifaceted challenges facing our oceans.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights photographers who use their work to advocate for ocean conservation, contributing to SDG 14 (Life Below Water) by raising awareness and promoting policy changes for marine ecosystem protection. Specific examples include the protection of Seahorse National Park and advocating for the global oceans treaty.