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Issue 109 - June 2024

Cooling Our Planet: New England’s Battle with Climate Change

Wet Land

Many are drawn to the natural beauty of New England in the summer, where the ocean’s cooling effect provides a respite from the heat. Cape Cod, Cape Ann, Martha’s Vineyard, Nantucket, Newport, and the coast of Maine are havens for those seeking refuge from the sweltering urban heat. Recently, however, the fabric of this climate is warping. Summers are increasingly hotter, and winters are unpredictably mild. These idyllic landscapes are under threat. With warming and stormier seas rising, we must understand the changes that are underway.

The excessive accumulation of greenhouse gases has disrupted the balance of heat entering and leaving our planet. This imbalance has led to a 1% increase in retained heat energy. Once, our skies were adorned with more than 50% white cumulus clouds, but today, their coverage has dwindled to less than 50%. The way rainwater is managed has also changed. Instead of infiltrating into the soil to keep the land moist and recharge aquifers, excess water now runs off the surface, floods and erodes landscapes, and is directly channelled into the sea. This only exacerbates the problem. 

We aim to achieve Net Zero Carbon emissions to restore our planet’s health. Reducing emissions, we strive to reverse the hockey stick graph of rising carbon, much like giving a patient with a high temperature an ice bath. We struggle to slacken the rise in carbon and need to tackle the visible symptoms, like rashes, scars, and hot spots on the land.  To restore planetary health, we must replace impervious surfaces with vegetation and soil.  Plants can help by absorbing more carbon dioxide and building more soil with carbohydrates. These carbohydrates create spaces in the soil that can hold seven inches of rainwater in just four inches of soil. 

Green infrastructure, such as permeable pavements, rain gardens, rain barrels, cisterns, green roofs, and Miyawaki forests replacing city concrete lots also improve water quality.  More water in the ground enables plants to continue growing and photosynthesizing, drawing down more carbon. Plants intentionally release water vapour when it is hot to evaporate and cool the microclimate. An hour before dawn, when the land is coolest, plants release water vapour that condenses to warm the microclimate with the morning dew. Meanwhile, restoring wetlands, salt marshes, and seagrasses, in addition to storing carbon, absorbs storm surges and acts as flood barriers. 

Sudbury River

Water slowed in vegetation and soil, no longer puddles on the surface to be warmed by extreme summer temperatures. Heat energy from the land is flushed to the sea.  Last summer, sea surface waters warmed by two degrees Fahrenheit in both Boston and Portland, Maine.  Paradoxically, it was not a particularly hot summer, with average temperatures of 70 degrees.  The sea’s face was not warmed in 2021, yet the average temperatures were 73.7 degrees Fahrenheit. The hot waters recorded this summer were a result of the highest rainfall totals since 1955.  Warmer weather with climate change warms the land, which warms the rainfall, that flows to the sea. On a hot day, when it rains, the temperature drops and the rain falling on the ocean is the temperature of the clouds, not the air. The air temperature cools when it rains, so rain on the water transfers little heat energy. We can cool the ocean by holding back and slowing the water running off the land.

The Gulf of Maine, the waters off Boston, Portsmouth, and Portland are bounded by Cape Cod to the south and Nova Scotia to the north.  It is a sea beside the Atlantic Ocean, separated by Browns Banks and Georges Banks, connected by a 60-mile-deep water channel.  The water in the Gulf of Maine is less salty, at 34 parts per thousand salt, compared to the Atlantic Ocean, at 36 parts per thousand salt. The decrease in salinity is due to all the freshwater flowing from off the land.  Warm freshwater spreads out across the sea surface because it is much less dense. In winter, little water flows from rivers and the land. The Continental Shelf Water at 54 degrees F, rises to the surface to warm the region.  

Climate Change is a global problem. This is indicated by 420 parts per billion tons of atmospheric carbon dioxide for a total of 800 billion tons of carbon worldwide.  Great strides in restoring the climate would be achieved if the carbon dioxide burden was reduced to 350 ppb, to a worldwide volume of 700 billion tons of carbon dioxide. We look to vegetation, a diversity of plants, pollinators, and herbivores to reduce the atmosphere by 100 billion tons of carbon to restore the balance. Worldwide biomass amounts to 564 billion tons of carbon.  Fortunately, whenever plants photosynthesize, they push a third of the carbohydrates as liquid carbon to feed soils.  (Grasses contribute half of their manufactured carbon when not disturbed by quick-release fertilizers.) Worldwide soils, therefore, weigh 2,800 billion tons of carbon and bind carbon in humus for thousands of years.   

Deerfield River
Deerfield River

We need to increase vegetation and soils by just 3% to win the battle with climate change. Enough to draw down 100 billion tons of carbon.  The land will hold more rainwater, flood less, and result in less stormwater erosion and choking sedimentation. More water will be available during dry periods.  Vegetation will flourish with adequate moisture for longer periods to draw down more carbon dioxide and better-moderated microclimates. 

To live away from water, plants have the agency to release bacteria and fungi into the air.  Water vapour nucleates around these organics to form mist and white cumulus clouds that reflect heat away from the ground.  When the mist is created, the condensation causes a fall in pressure that acts as a biotic pump to draw moist air from the ocean to the plants.  Plants reduce the energy gathering over oceans by releasing bacteria and fungi into the air. Conversely, when a stand of trees falls, with more energy, the ocean storm fury rises. 

Smart climate change reduction actions start at home and in neighbourhoods with greener, more natural, and more attractive landscapes. By restoring the balance of greenhouse gases, cumulous cloud cover, verdant green landscapes, and the hydrologic cycle, immediate benefits are provided locally to all in the region. With a little spadework, we can put the cool back into the planet, the green back into our landscapes, and enjoy nicer summer days by the sea once again. 

Crane's Beach
Crane’s Beach

Rob Moir in Greenland

About The Author

Dr. Rob Moir is a nationally recognised and award-winning environmentalist. He is president and executive director of Cambridge, MA-based Ocean River Institute, a nonprofit providing expertise, services, resources, and information unavailable on a localized level to support the efforts of environmental organizations. Please visit www.oceanriver.org for more information.

More Article by Dr. Moir


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Issue 109 - June 2024

SEVENSEAS Travel Magazine – June 2024 – Issue 109


Explore the Depths and Uncover Iceland’s Hidden Underwater Wonders

underwater shot of people snorkeling in iceland

Iceland’s natural splendour is no secret, with its dramatic landscapes, towering glaciers, and mesmerizing northern lights. But the Silfra fissure offers an unparalleled adventure for those seeking the truly extraordinary. Read more…

Discover Dalvik: North Iceland’s Hidden Skiing Paradise for Families & Olympians Alike

Nestled in the heart of North Iceland, the charming town of Dalvik is a haven for skiing enthusiasts, offering a unique blend of community spirit and world-class skiing. Read more…

A Spark of Innovation: How Paragliding Nomads Ignited a New Adventure

A tight-knit community of adventurous souls thrived in the heart of Vík, on the south coast of Iceland, where the rugged coastline meets the endless expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. Read more…


Discovering Botanical Medicines in Indonesia’s Rainforests

Threading their way through tangled undergrowth, biochemist Ilya Raskin of Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey, and botanist Slavik Dushenkov of Hostos Community College in the Bronx, New York, are bushwhacking through the wooded maze of an Indonesian jungle. Read more…

Signs of White Shark Activity Off Massachusetts After Multiple Marine Mammals Are Seen With Bite Marks

As the summer season gets underway, the New England Aquarium is urging the public to be aware of their surroundings and report shark sightings after multiple marine mammals were found with white shark bites recently off Massachusetts. Read more…

New Technologies Revise Scientists’ Understanding of The Oxygen Minimum Zone

A diatom agglomeration documented and studied on Research Vessel Falkor (too) during the expedition. banner

Using a new technology called a mini trace analyzer insitu logger, or mTail, an international team of scientists on a Schmidt Ocean Institute expedition has found sporadic pockets of water with trace amounts of oxygen in an area of the Southeast Pacific. Read more…

Map the Giants: Seek Out The Last Monumental Corals

Big Momma Coral Banner

Climate change and anthropogenic pressures threaten coral reefs around the world, causing biodiversity loss and a decrease in coral cover. With the current bleaching event, just a few years after the mass event of 2016, even more reefs are at risk and questions arise about how the coral reefs of the future will look. Read more…

Right Whales Remain in New England Waters, with Recent Sightings in Unprotected Areas

North Atlantic right whales are lingering in New England waters this spring, with recent sightings of the critically endangered animals in unprotected areas including the shipping lanes south of Cape Cod. Read more…

Eight Ways to Support Marine Sanctuaries During National Ocean Month

coral reef banner

As young women with a desire to protect our blue planet, we (Chloe, Claire, and Kristi) each joined NOAA’s Office of National Marine Sanctuaries education team. Now, we work as a team sharing the importance of protecting the ocean with members of the next generation. Read more…

Book Suggestion: Journey into the Depths of the Yucatán with “Light in the Underworld”

In Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, a hidden world of breathtaking beauty and natural wonder lies beneath the surface. The underwater caves and cenotes, gateways to the ancient Maya underworld of Xibalba, have long remained a mystery, their secrets hidden in the depths. Read more…

New Study Found That Steller Sea Lions Are Facing Rising Mercury Levels in Pacific Ocean

Sea lion with a seastar

team of researchers from Texas A&M University and beyond has made a surprising discovery about rising mercury levels in Steller sea lion pups that may have detrimental effects on the endangered species. Read more…

Cooling Our Planet: New England’s Battle with Climate Change

Many are drawn to the natural beauty of New England in the summer, where the ocean’s cooling effect provides a respite from the heat. Cape Cod, Cape Ann, Martha’s Vineyard, Nantucket, Newport, and the coast of Maine are havens for those seeking refuge from the sweltering urban heat. Read more…

Sun, Surf, & Sandcastles: The World’s Best Beaches of 2024 Await Your Arrival

Trunk Bay in the US Virgin Islands has been crowned the best beach in the world for 2024, impressing voters with its picturesque landscape and crystal-clear waters. Joining Trunk Bay in the top three are Cala Mariolu in Italy and Meads Bay in Anguilla, highlighting the diverse range of dreamy beach locations that made the cut this year. See more…

Wildlife Biologist and TV Host Jeff Corwin Joins Capitol Hill Ocean Week Events

Emmy Award-winning TV host and renowned wildlife biologist Jeff Corwin will join the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation to honour ocean leaders at the Ocean Awards Gala on June 4th at Union Station in Washington, D.C., as part of Capitol Hill Ocean Week (CHOW), the nation’s premier ocean conference. Read more…

Coral Reefs Still Have a Chance with Immediate Actionable Solutions

Recent reports of the fourth global coral bleaching event paint a grim picture of the future of our ocean. As anomalies in ocean temperatures persist, entire reefs are at risk of irreversible damage.  It’s crucial to recognize that bleaching doesn’t necessarily mean death for corals. Read more…

Abundance Studios in association with DNA Films Announces the Production of the Guy Harvey Documentary

Guy Harvey Documentary banner

Abundance Studios, in association with DNA Films, is thrilled to announce the commencement of filming for a groundbreaking documentary featuring world-renowned marine wildlife artist and conservationist, Dr. Guy Harvey. Read more…

Record-Breaking Shark Migration: Genie the Silky Shark Shatters Expectations Exposing Fishery Loopholes

The study shattered previous movement records almost six-fold, illustrating the shark’s extensive use of the open ocean, far beyond national jurisdictions, demonstrating the urgent need to establish regulations to conserve ocean biodiversity beyond areas of national jurisdiction. Read more…

11th Hour Racing Sponsors IMOCA to Further Advance its Commitment to Sustainability & Diversity in Offshore Racing

IMOCA skippers and teams vote on new rules at the Annual General Meeting in Lorient, France.

11th Hour Racing announced today it will join forces with the International Monohull Open Class Association(IMOCA) to drive sustainable innovation and support opportunities for female sailors within competitive sailing. Read more…

Rolex Celebrate the Ocean

It is with a sense of responsibility that Rolex introduces its Oceans Moment on World Oceans Day. The watchmaker has been involved with international efforts to explore our oceans for over seventy years, first for the thrill of discovery, and then for the sake of research and protection. Read more…

A Glimpse of Life in the Deep Sea: Announced Winners of the 2024 Science Without Borders

The Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation is thrilled to announce the winners of the 2024 Science Without Borders® Challenge, an international student art contest that promotes ocean conservation. See more…

Biden Administration Misses Opportunity to Reduce Single-Use Plastics  

The General Services Administration (GSA) announced its final rule on reducing single-use plastic packaging. The GSA is the federal agency that oversees government procurement. Read more…

World Ocean Day 2024: Catalyzing Global Action for a Resilient Ocean and Climate

The annual observance of World Ocean Day on June 8th serves as a critical catalyst for international collaboration and action to safeguard the world’s oceans. This year’s theme, “Catalyzing Action for Our Ocean & Climate,” Read more…


SEVENSEAS Beach Cleanup & Coral Restoration Events in Marine Protected Areas

Beach Cleanup Event

Coral Nursery & Restoration Activity

SEVENSEAS Media conducted two impactful events in Krabi, Thailand. The Monthly Beach Cleanup Event at Ao Sew Beach saw enthusiastic volunteers remove a staggering 150.6 kilograms of trash, underscoring the pressing issue of marine pollution and the significance of sustainable practices like reducing, reusing, and recycling waste. The organization stressed the importance of proper waste management to protect coastal ecosystems.

Meanwhile, in the face of an unexpected storm, SEVENSEAS Media’s Coral Nursery & Restoration team demonstrated unwavering dedication, rescuing and relocating 75 corals to safer locations, bolstering their chances of survival and growth. The team outlined a comprehensive plan for continued coral recovery missions and data collection efforts throughout the year. The recent storm served as a stark reminder of the urgency to safeguard coral reefs from climate change impacts. We would like to express our gratitude for the support received from individuals and communities in this conservation community. We would not be able to do it without your support. You can make a tax-deductible donation here to keep our publications and Thailand Cleanup Project afloat.

You can either make a direct financial contribution to SEVENSEAS Media through The Ocean Foundation website or connect us with potential donors by sending an email to  Giacomo Abrusci, our Editor-in-Chief.


The FREE Weekly Conservation Post and Jobs List

Signing up for the free Weekly Newsletter & Jobs List will get you a round-up of upcoming events, webinars, meetings, reports, funding opportunities, photos of the week, and recent postings to the jobs list.

To sign up for our free subscription, please Click Here or email us Here

Since 2004, SEVENSEAS Media has fostered an informal and non-partisan platform to promote understanding of key issues and challenges while building partnerships across an increasingly diverse group of marine conservation professionals and students.

Our mission is to promote communication and build partnerships across the global marine community and to identify and address gaps in the community’s work. SEVENSEAS Media achieves this through multimedia promotion and partnerships. The community consists of a diverse and growing group of participants, including non-governmental organizations, government agencies, foundations, bilateral and multilateral agencies, fellowship programs, independent consultants, and academia/students.

If you are interested in contributing or getting involved, email us Here


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Issue 109 - June 2024

Abundance Studios in association with DNA Films Announces Production of Guy Harvey Documentary

Guy & Jess GHOF Banquet 2020
Guy & Jess GHOF Banquet 2020

Orlando, FL – Abundance Studios, in association with DNA Films, is thrilled to announce the commencement of filming for a groundbreaking documentary featuring world-renowned marine wildlife artist and conservationist, Dr. Guy Harvey. This documentary promises to delve deep into Harvey’s life, his passion for ocean conservation, the development of his diverse business portfolio, and his remarkable contributions to marine science and art.

Guy & Jess underwater

Dr. Guy Harvey, whose artistry has captivated audiences worldwide, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, saying, “I am honoured and excited to share my journey and commitment to marine conservation through this documentary.”

Directed by 22-time Emmy award-winning filmmaker Nick Nanton, the documentary aims to provide a portrait of Harvey’s life, from his childhood fascination with the sea to the iconic Guy Harvey fishing t-shirt to his pioneering efforts in marine conservation. Nanton shared his vision for the film, saying, “Guy Harvey’s story is one of passion, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of conservation. He has combined his unique talent for art to bring a spotlight to the world of conservation. Through this documentary, we hope to inspire audiences to look at how they can unite their gifts with their passions to create positive change in the world as well as join us in preserving our oceans for future generations.”

The production of the documentary, which will begin filming soon in Grand Cayman, is made possible by the generous support of funding from Abundance Studios’ Executive Producers Coach Pete D’Arruda, Chuck McDowell, Didi Wong, Chris Wiser, Kevin Hodes, Dr. Wayne Pernell, and Pat Ziemer, and Producers Craig Lack, Julie Meates, Dr. Teri Rouse, Fred Rouse, Jennifer Perri, Richard Tyler, Michael Reza, Gary Marriage, George McCranie, Charlie Epstein, Ryan Chute, Paul Peters, Bryan Gallinger, Frank Astorino, and Kathleen Forrest. This cause-based studio is committed to raising awareness around critical issues the world is facing and the most inspiring people in the world. “The Guy Harvey documentary checks both of those boxes,” added Nanton.

DNA Films in association with Abundance Studios invites media representatives to join them in celebrating the launch of this landmark documentary as they embark on this journey to shed light on the extraordinary life and legacy of Dr. Guy Harvey. 


About Guy Harvey:

With a focused mission to better understand and conserve the ocean environment, the Guy Harvey Foundation (GHF) collaborates with local, national and international organizations to conduct scientific research and provides funding to affiliated researchers who share this objective. The GHF also develops and hosts cutting-edge educational programs that help educators to foster the next era of marine conservationists, ensuring that future generations can enjoy and benefit from a properly balanced ocean ecosystem. For more information, visit www.GuyHarveyFoundation.org. Follow the GHF on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GuyHarveyOcean, on Twitter at www.twitter.com/GuyHarveyOcean, or connect on Instagram at www.instagram.com/GuyHarveyOcean.

About Abundance Studios®

Abundance Studios® is a cause-based studio committed to raising awareness around critical issues society is facing as well as sharing the stories of the most inspiring people in the world. With a commitment to excellence in storytelling and cinematic quality, the studio strives to inform, inspire, and drive positive change through its films.

About the Guy Harvey Foundation:

Since 1986, Guy Harvey has created marine-inspired apparel that blends performance, comfort and durability. Started by marine biologist and artist Dr. Guy Harvey, the brand is committed to making products that contribute to ocean conservation and marine education. Guy Harvey continuously implements innovative, sustainable manufacturing practices. The company uses REPREVE polyester and new THREADCYCLED™ technology (repurposing 100% of textile waste into upcycled yarn), powers its manufacturing facility with solar panels and purifies 100% of the water used in the dying and steaming process. Guy Harvey is focused on making responsible apparel that consumers can feel good about wearing. Additionally, a portion of all proceeds of officially licensed Guy Harvey products goes to the Guy Harvey Foundation (GHF), which conducts scientific research and hosts educational programs aimed at conserving the marine environment. To learn more about Guy Harvey apparel, please visit www.guyharvey.com.

The Guy Harvey Foundation logo

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Issue 109 - June 2024

Biden Administration Misses Opportunity to Reduce Single-Use Plastics  

President Biden must do more to reduce the government’s purchasing of single-use plastics 

The General Services Administration (GSA) announced its final rule on reducing single-use plastic packaging. The GSA is the federal agency that oversees government procurement. The U.S. government is the world’s largest purchaser of goods and services, and decisions by the federal government can have a global impact on the plastic pollution crisis.  

An estimated 33 billion pounds of plastic enter the oceans every year, including single-use items such as plastic bottles, packaging, takeout food containers, and bags. With the GSA’s release of a narrow rule, Oceana calls on the Biden administration to move forward with additional policies to reduce single-use plastic packaging and products and incentivize refillable and reusable alternatives.  

“This is a missed opportunity. This rule can’t be the end, this has to be the first step toward greater action to reduce the federal government’s purchasing of single-use plastics,” said Christy Leavitt, Oceana’s plastics campaign director. “President Biden must do more to address the growing plastic pollution crisis that is already harming our oceans, climate, health, and communities. The U.S. government’s immense purchasing power can play an important role in reducing plastic pollution in the U.S. and around the world. Moving forward, the Biden administration must set strong policies to reduce plastic pollution at the source and support reuse and refill.” 

The Biden administration committed in 2022 to phase out single-use plastic products on public lands managed by the Department of the Interior, including Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, Acadia, and all other national parks. According to a national poll released by Oceana in February 2023, an overwhelming 82% of U.S. voters across party lines support reducing the federal government’s use of single-use plastic — nearly 85% of Democrats and 77% of Republicans.  

In February 2024, Oceana submitted comments to the GSA as part of the public comment period on the proposed rule and delivered more than 6,900 petition signatures calling on the federal government to reduce the purchase of single-use plastics. 

Background  

Plastic has been found in every corner of the world and has turned up in drinking water, beer, salt, honey, and more. It’s also one of the greatest contributors to climate change. In fact, if plastic were a country, it would be the fifth-largest emitter of greenhouse gases in the world. With plastic production growing at a rapid rate, increased amounts of plastic can be expected to flood our blue planet with devastating consequences.  

A 2020 Oceana report revealed evidence of nearly 1,800 animals from 40 different species swallowing or becoming entangled in plastic in U.S. waters between 2009 and early 2020. Of those animals, a staggering 88% were from species listed as endangered or threatened with extinction under the Endangered Species Act.  

Less than 6% of plastic in the U.S. is recycled, yet the plastics industry continues to tout recycling as a panacea while pushing new plastic products onto the market. Companies need to dramatically reduce the production and use of unnecessary single-use plastic, provide plastic-free choices, and develop systems that refill and reuse packaging and foodware. Elected officials must enact policies to ensure they do so. 

In February 2023, Oceana released the results of a nationwide poll that showed broad bipartisan concern about single-use plastics and support for reducing both the production and use of these products and increasing the use of reusable packaging and foodware. Included among the key findings:  

  • 83% of American voters are concerned about single-use plastic products 
  • 73% support a pause in building new plastic production facilities 
  • 82% support reducing the federal government’s use of single-use plastic 

Polling was conducted by the nonpartisan polling company Ipsos, which surveyed 1,000 American adults from across the U.S. in December 2022.  

To learn more about Oceana’s campaign to stop plastic pollution, please visit usa.oceana.org/plastics. 


About Oceana

Oceana is the largest international advocacy organization dedicated solely to ocean conservation. Oceana is rebuilding abundant and biodiverse oceans by winning science-based policies in countries that control one-quarter of the world’s wild fish catch. With more than 300 victories that stop overfishing, habitat destruction, oil and plastic pollution, and the killing of threatened species like turtles, whales, and sharks, Oceana’s campaigns are delivering results. A restored ocean means that 1 billion people can enjoy a healthy seafood meal every day, forever. Together, we can save the oceans and help feed the world. Visit Oceana.org to learn more. 


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