Virgil Zetterlind of Protected Seas: Mapping Ocean Protections and Closing the Enforcement Gap | S4E4

In this episode, we sit down with Virgil Zetterlind, Director of Protected Seas, to discuss the critical difference between declaring a Marine Protected Area (MPA) and it actually leading to the intended positive outcomes we hope to achieve. It's a more complex topic than we often cover, but incredibly important. So grab a cup of coffee, perhaps a notepad, and a comfortable seat before you dive in.While global targets like 30x30 and the High Seas Treaty dominate the headlines, the reality on the ocean is that much of it is often a Wild West of overlapping regulations and limited visibility. Virgil walks us through how Protected Seas is solving this knowlege and data gap by mapping the global regulatory landscape with their Navigator tool and deploying autonomous radar systems (M2) to monitor compliance in real-time.In this episode, you’ll hear about:Visualizing the Invisible – How the Navigator tool standardizes complex, layered legal texts into a "Level of Fishing Protection" score, allowing users to see exactly what activities are allowed in any patch of ocean.Closing the Enforcement Gap – The transition from "paper parks", areas that are protected by law, but not in reality, to protected waters using M2 (Marine Monitor), a non-cooperative radar technology that tracks near-shore vessel movement without relying on AIS signals.The Economics of Protection – Data from Mexico and beyond proving that scuba divers are willing to pay a premium to visit fully protected areas, making a clear economic case for strict no-take zones.Data Over Intuition – A case study from California where radar data disproved the assumption that poaching happens at night, revealing that most illegal fishing occurred in broad daylight which shifted enforcement strategies.High Seas & 30x30 – The logistical challenges of implementing the new High Seas Treaty and the difficulty of tracking "Other Effective Conservation Measures" (OECMs) without standardized metrics.Protected SeasProtected Seas is a team of data scientists, mariners, and conservationists dedicated to bridging the gap between ocean policy and reality. Their open-access tools, including the Navigator map and M2 radar systems, empower governments, NGOs, and ocean users to understand regulations and improve compliance.Website: https://protectedseas.netNavigator Map: https://map.navigatemap.orgM2 Marine Monitor: https://m2marinemonitor.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/protected-seasMentioned Organizations & ToolsMapping & Navigation AppsSavvy Navvy (Boating App)Website: https://www.savvy-navvy.comDeckee (Boating Safety App)Website: https://deckee.comGoogle EarthWebsite: https://earth.google.comGoogle MapsWebsite: https://maps.google.comConservation Technology & EnforcementGlobal Fishing WatchWebsite: https://globalfishingwatch.orgSkylight (Maritime Intelligence)Website: https://www.skylight.globalEarthRanger (Protected Area Management - Note: Referred to as "Earth Rangers" in transcript)Website: https://www.earthranger.comConserve.ioWebsite: https://conserve.ioWhale AlertWebsite: https://www.whalealert.orgFuruno (Marine Radar Hardware)Website: https://www.furuno.comConservation NGOs & GovernmentWildAidWebsite: https://wildaid.orgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wildaidGlobal ConservationWebsite: https://globalconservation.orgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/globalconservationNOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration)Website: https://www.noaa.govInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/noaaDave Wiley (Research Coordinator, Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary)Profile: https://stellwagen.noaa.gov/science/dave-wiley.htmlREEF Roundup & REEF ScubaREEF Roundup – Marine conservation podcast (this show)Website: https://www.reefroundup.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/reefroundupREEF Scuba – Nonprofit behind REEF RoundupWebsite: https://www.reefscuba.org

In this episode, we sit down with Tré Packard, founder and Executive Director of PangeaSeed Foundation, to explore how public art can turn abstract ocean science into something people can see, feel, and act on. From shark fin markets in Asia to large-scale mural festivals and fine art print releases, Tré walks through how PangeaSeed built a global model that funds conservation work, supports artists, and brings the ocean into city streets. In this episode, you’ll hear about:Art as a gateway to empathy – why emotional connection is as important as scientific literacy for driving change, especially for people who will never put on a mask or scuba tank. The origin of Sea Walls – how the uncovering of the largest shark finning operation in the world and a mural in a Sri Lanka sparked the idea of using large-scale public art as a democratic, free platform for ocean stories. Printed Oceans and the “business of conservation” – how limited-edition fine art prints create a circular economy that funds programs, supports artists, and brings conservation narratives into homes, schools, and workplaces. Cross-sector collaborations – examples of working with dive agencies, city governments, brands, and international institutions to align communications, funding, and science around local ocean threats. Longevity and resilience in ocean advocacy – lessons from 15+ years in the field, including burnout, hope, and how to keep going when the problems are heavy and long-term. PangeaSeed Foundation is a nonprofit working at the intersection of art, science, and education to advance ocean conservation. Through programs like Sea Walls: Artists for Oceans, Printed Oceans, and their Impact and Commissioned Programs, PangeaSeed connects scientists and communities with a global network of artists to turn complex marine issues into accessible visual stories. Their work addresses priority ocean challenges such as overfishing, plastic pollution, and climate impacts worldwide. PangeaSeed FoundationWebsite: https://www.pangeaseed.org Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pangeaseed Sea Walls: Artists for Oceans (PangeaSeed public art program)Website: https://www.seawalls.org Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seawallsPrinted Oceans (fine art print program)Program page: https://pangeaseed.org/printed-oceans/ Tré Packard – Photography PortfolioInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/abovebelowphoto/ Other Mentioned OrganizationsProtect BlueProtect BlueWebsite: https://protect.blue Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/protect.blue Application / program pagesUndercurrent (program page with application): https://protect.blue/undercurrent Blue Campus (community & program hub): https://protect.blue/campus PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors)Website: https://www.padi.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/paditv United Nations & UN Ocean ConferenceUN Ocean Conference (information page): https://www.un.org/en/conferences/ocean2025 United Nations – main organizationWebsite: https://www.un.org Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unitednations Influencer DatabaseIUCN – International Union for Conservation of NatureWebsite: https://www.iucn.org Instagram (IUCN Congress): https://www.instagram.com/iucn_congressREEF Roundup & REEF ScubaREEF Roundup – Marine conservation podcast (this show)Website: ⁠https://reef-roundup.com⁠ ⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/reefroundup⁠ REEF Scuba – Nonprofit behind REEF RoundupWebsite: ⁠https://www.reef-scuba.org⁠ ⁠

In this episode of REEF Roundup we sit down with world renowned Dr. Jamie Craggs to learn about the fascinating topic of coral reproduction and how controlled coral spawning is increasingly becoming a go-to restoration tool. Jamie walks through the progression from his groundbreaking work at the Horniman Museum & Gardens — Project Coral to wider collaborations with Coral Spawning International, SECORE International, Tropical Marine Centre (BioCSL), and his work as Senior Marine Science Officer at MARS Sustainable Solutions — Building Coral. We also discuss a field project documented with Canon and Nature Seychelles, connecting science and public storytelling.Explore & follow the organizations mentioned:Horniman Museum & Gardens — Project Coral — Website: https://www.horniman.ac.uk/project/project-coral/ • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hornimanmuseumgardens/Coral Spawning International — Website: https://www.coralspawninginternational.com/SECORE International — Website: https://www.secore.org • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/secore.international/Tropical Marine Centre (BioCSL) — Website: https://tropicalmarinecentre.com • BioCSL: https://tropicalmarinecentre.com/uk/sector-bio-csl-coral-spawning-labs • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tropicalmarinecentre/MARS Sustainable Solutions — Building Coral — Website: https://www.buildingcoral.com Canon (World Unseen: Coral Matchmaking) — Feature: https://www.canon-europe.com/view/world-unseen-coral-matchmaking-episode-1/ Nature Seychelles — Website: https://natureseychelles.org • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/naturesey/Learn more about the show and follow us at REEF Roundup — https://reef-roundup.com • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reefroundup/

In this episode, we’re honored to feature Rose Huizenga, founder of Coral Catch and co-founder of Gili Shark Conservation. Originally from the Netherlands, Rose has spent the past decade on Gili Air, Indonesia, transforming a dream to restore her island’s reefs into a powerful movement for ocean conservation and women’s empowerment.Through Coral Catch, Rose has built a sisterhood of local women—known as the Coral Catch Superwomen—who are trained as certified divers, reef restoration experts, and community leaders. These women are not only reviving reefs across Indonesia but also sparking ripple effects of change in their communities, proving that empowering women is a catalyst for stronger ecosystems and societies.For Rose, this mission is deeply personal. Every time she takes her daughters into the ocean, she’s reminded why she began: so the next generation can inherit a living, thriving ocean. Her vision is bold yet tangible—to empower 100 women to pursue conservation careers and 100 more to learn how to swim, ensuring a brighter future for both people and reefs.If you’re looking for a powerful story of how one person’s dream can ignite lasting change, this episode is a must-listen. Follow the journeys of the Coral Catch Superwomen on Instagram @coralcatch, and support their work at coralcatch.org/donate.

In this episode we are featuring Rebecca Daniel @rebecca_saltysea, the visionary Director of @themarinediaries. Rebecca’s journey from a young ocean enthusiast to a leading marine conservationist storyteller is nothing short of extraordinary. We'll explore how The Marine Diaries is making waves in ocean conservation, from educating the public on marine ecosystems to launching powerful campaigns and creating an ocean community through events and experiences. Discover their visually stunning short films on YouTube, such as "The Big Blue", which takes you deep into the heart of the ocean, and get a taste of adventure with their annual "Great African Seaforest Adventure", showcasing the wonders of Cape Town’s underwater world. Whether you’re passionate about marine science, eager to learn how you can help protect our ocean, or simply love a good story, this episode is packed with insights that will leave you inspired and ready to take action! Make sure to visit The Marine Diaries at www.themarinediaries.com and follow them on Instagram @themarinediaries to stay updated on their latest initiatives.

On this episode of REEF Roundup, we are thrilled to host David and Brett Kettle, the innovative minds behind Flying Fish Technologies. With a combined legacy of over five decades in marine conservation, the Kettles are revolutionizing how we analyse, understand and protect coral reefs. Brett Kettle has been a formidable force in coral reef protection for several decades. His career highlights include spearheading the largest reef remediation project on the Great Barrier Reef and providing expert testimony in landmark environmental cases. Driven by the need to address Crown of Thorns Starfish outbreaks, Brett envisioned a tool that could document vast stretches of reef with unprecedented speed and accuracy. This vision materialized into the Vertigo3 glider, a high-speed underwater survey device capable of capturing over 50,000 high-resolution images per hour, each enriched with geospatial and environmental data. David Kettle brings a wealth of experience in business analysis, project management, and technological innovation. As CEO of Flying Fish Technologies, David has been instrumental in developing AI-driven tools that analyze biodiversity in real-time, enabling the creation of photorealistic, geospatially accurate digital twins of reef ecosystems. His leadership has ensured that Flying Fish Technologies remains at the forefront of marine survey technology, making their gliders accessible for global deployment and adaptable to various environmental conditions. Together, Brett and David Kettle are not just advancing marine science; they are making it possible to monitor and preserve our underwater worlds more effectively and on a scale that was never possible before. Tune in to hear about their journey, the technology they’ve developed, and their vision for the future of coral reef conservation. Make sure to check out Flying Fishs' videos - they are incredible! https://vimeo.com/showcase/10597521 You can find Brett Kettle here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brettkettle You can also find David Kettle here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kettledavid Follow us @ REEF Roundup Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Marine Conservation Podcast (@reefroundup)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ REEF Roundup Website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠(reef-roundup.com)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ REEF Scuba Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (reef-scuba.org)

The REEF Roundup crew recently had the privilege of attending the UN Ocean Decade Conference in Barcelona. We met an incredible array of ocean heroes from scientists and policymakers to activists and innovators, all dedicated to creating a brighter future for the ocean. This special episode is a sneak peek into our experience at the conference, highlighting the key themes, discussions, and solutions presented. We'll also be teasing some of our upcoming episodes, featuring four extraordinary individuals: Elizabeth (Liz) Sherr (@lizlivingblue) - A passionate ocean conservationist, amazing communicator, and Marine Scientist. Liz is dedicated to sharing ocean science, stories, and news to empower us all to live for a bluer planet. (Full episode coming soon! :)) Dr. Gabriel Okunade - A highly experienced marine biologist and taxonomist with a Ph.D. in Marine Biology. Dr. Okunade's expertise lies in the identification and analysis of benthic organisms, providing valuable insights into marine ecosystems. He was at the science as part of the Black in Marine Science deligation. Carl Gouldman - Director at NOAA's U.S. Integrated Ocean Observing System Office. Carl leads the national-regional partnership that provides critical ocean data, tools, and forecasts to improve safety, economic activity, and protect our coastal environment. Dr. Steven Thur - Assistant Administrator for Research at NOAA, who shared his insights on the importance of collaboration and innovation in ocean science. Stay tuned for our upcoming episodes, where we'll dive deeper into the work of these inspiring individuals and explore the many ways we can all contribute to a healthier ocean. You can learn more and watch many of the conference presentations HERE. Follow us @ REEF Roundup Instagram ⁠⁠⁠Marine Conservation Podcast (@reefroundup)⁠⁠⁠ REEF Roundup Website ⁠⁠⁠(reef-roundup.com)⁠⁠⁠ REEF Scuba Website⁠⁠⁠ (reef-scuba.org)⁠

Farah Obaidullah is the founder of The Ocean and Us, the editor of the new book The Ocean and Us. She holds a Master of Science and Bachelor of Science from Imperial College in London. With over 20 years professional experience, Farah has travelled the world, observing the beauty of the ocean and witnessing some of the most egregious practices happening at sea. Among her achievements, Farah has executed campaigns to end destructive fishing, worked with affected communities, lobbied for ocean protection and been deeply involved in exposing fish crimes, including slavery and labour abuse at sea. Farah is currently campaigning for a moratorium on deep-sea mining, a reckless emerging industry that will cause irreversible harm to deep-sea ecosystems, and for which the consequences in terms of disturbing locked-away carbon are unknown. Support Farah's audacious new project: The Ocean Hope Tour, connecting people to the ocean and stopping the next climate disaster from starting! To listen to the second half of this episode, follow Eutopya Podcasts Make sure to check out Farah's website: https://www.theoceanandus.org/ and follow along with her initiatives! Follow us @ REEF Roundup Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Marine Conservation Podcast (@reefroundup)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ REEF Roundup Website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠(reef-roundup.com)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ REEF Scuba Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (reef-scuba.org)

Meet Ellie Casement, a 23-year-old marine biologist, dive professional, and self-proclaimed 'fish geek.' Over the past year, Ellie has been immersing herself in the marine world of Roatan, Honduras, fueled by her passion for marine conservation and a prestigious Fulbright Independent Research Grant. In Roatan, Ellie's journey entailed collaborating with notable local NGOs, including the Roatan Marine Park, Healthy Reefs, and the Roatan Institute for Marine Sciences. Her groundbreaking project? Investigating how fish populations, particularly butterflyfish, adapt behaviorally and demographically to the devastating stony coral tissue loss disease epidemic ravaging Caribbean reefs. But Ellie's work extends beyond academic research. Her days were filled with diverse, impactful activities: from teaching coral restoration techniques at local dive shops, empowering young locals through SCUBA education, to monitoring grouper spawning events and even tagging sharks. Ellie’s oceanic journey began at the tender age of 4 during her family's sojourn in St. Lucia. A pivotal SCUBA dive at 12 set her heart on a life intertwined with the sea. Following an academic path in ecology and evolutionary biology at Tulane University, enriched by semesters abroad and numerous SCUBA certifications, the Fulbright grant transformed her island-living dream into reality. As of July 2023, Ellie's new chapter unfolds in Portugal, where she is part of the EU’s International Master of Science in Marine Biological Resources (IMBRSea) program. Her current pursuits? A fascinating shark DNA barcoding project, preparing her Fulbright research for publication, and devising future projects centered around her beloved butterflyfish. For insights into Ellie's research, inquiries about Roatan, or simply to connect, reach her at [email protected]. Delve deeper into the world of Roatan’s reef conservation efforts and learn about Ellie's collaborators: Roatan Marine Park Healthy Reefs Roatan Institute for Marine Sciences

Brianna Bambic is a dynamic and dedicated professional currently spearheading the Field Engagement team at Allen Coral Atlas, a pioneering tool that provides high-resolution mapping and monitoring of the world's coral reefs. Her career is rooted in a profound commitment to marine conservation, particularly focusing on coral reef ecosystems. Brianna's journey in marine science began with her earning a Bachelor of Arts in Biology from the University of Denver, where she was recognized on the Dean's list. She further honed her expertise by pursuing a Master's degree in Natural Resource Management, specializing in Coastal and Marine Management, from Háskólinn á Akureyri, Iceland. With a career that spans over a decade, Brianna's experience in the field is extensive. She has played a pivotal role as a Senior Program Manager at National Geographic, where she utilized her networking skills to advance conservation efforts. Additionally, as an Early Career Grantee of National Geographic, she conducted significant research in Belize City, Belize. Brianna's work is not just confined to research and management. She has also actively engaged in fieldwork, having completed over 700 dives, predominantly focused in the Caribbean region. Her expertise encompasses coastal and marine management, community engagement, and outreach, effectively bridging the gap between scientific research and public awareness. We're honored to have her with us, and know that you'll enjoy learning more about her, the tools that are available from Allan Coral Atlas, and about how you too can get involved. Organisations mentioned in this episode: Allen Coral Atlas: ⁠@allencoralatlas⁠​​. National Geographic Society - Instagram: ⁠@natgeo Adventure Scientists: @adventurescientists​​. Conservation Education Society: @conservationeducationsociety​​. CORDIO East Africa: @cordioea​​. Paul G. Allen Family Foundation: @pga_familyfdn​​.