Mother Nature Warned Us

Warmer ocean temperatures, pollution, and overfishing are destroying the coral reefs that surround the islands of French Polynesia. Coral reefs act as barriers to protect the islands from storm surges, large waves, erosion, and floods. After witnessing reef deaths first-hand, a group of islanders started an underwater coral nursery in order to replant the coral in their local reefs. Listen to learn more about the Coral Gardeners and their mission to protect the waters and the islands they call home.

In Miami, signs of pollution and climate change include seagrass die-offs, algae blooms, and an ominous rising sea level. This year, these signs of pollution were minimal compared to the massive fish kill that left tens of thousands of fish lying bellies up in Biscayne Bay. The combination of water pollution and rising sea surface temperatures will take a tremendous toll on our favorite predators: sharks. Listen to learn about how Paola, a photographer out of Miami, experiences these disasters and how organizations are attempting to reverse them. 

Cover photo credit: Paola Roldan

Hurricanes and tropical storms in the gulf coast are getting more frequent, with heavier rains for longer periods. On top of this, cities along the gulf coast may be left with little to no help due to disappearing wetlands, as well as poor infrastructure and storm preparations. As these storms become more frequent because of warming sea surface temperatures, what will happen to these cities and their inhabitants? Listen to learn about Jojo's experience with hurricanes and tropical storms in New Orleans.

The forest fires on the west coast are changing, and not in a good way. Each year, the fires move more north, burn faster, and for longer periods. Aside from massive fires, the hazardous smoke hangs in the air, blocking any sign of blue skies or sunlight. While people's homes and communities are burning down, 20 fossil fuel companies are responsible for a third of all carbon emissions (Heede, Richard). Listen to learn about how individuals and communities are affected by climate disasters on the west coast.