In this latest episode of the Healthy Seas podcast, we dive into the revolutionary world of eDNA with Nicole Yeomans, the Offshore Industrials Lead and marine ecology expert at NatureMetrics. With a powerful commitment to making biodiversity measurable, NatureMetrics uses environmental DNA (eDNA) to reveal previously unseen insights into marine ecosystems. Now a finalist for the prestigious Earthshot Prize, NatureMetrics is showing how this cutting-edge technology has become an essential tool not only for scientists but also for corporations and NGOs dedicated to conservation.

Throughout this episode, Nicole introduces eDNA and explains how it captures the unique traces left by every organism. She shares examples of how NatureMetrics has partnered with companies like MSC Cruises to track species across cruise routes, from bacteria to blue whales, creating data that directly supports efforts to protect and measure biodiversity. We also discuss the critical role of eDNA in helping companies integrate nature-positive practices into their operations, aligning with conservation goals and regulatory needs.

Listeners will learn about the limitations and unique advantages of eDNA, how it has transformed traditional research, and why it’s critical for businesses and NGOs to monitor and protect biodiversity. For anyone interested in understanding how technology is advancing marine conservation, this episode is a must-listen.

Catch the episode to learn:

• What eDNA is and how it works to reveal the "hidden" biodiversity of our oceans
• Real-world applications in corporate and environmental conservation
• Why businesses are turning to eDNA to align with nature-positive targets and regulations
• How eDNA offers a non-invasive and powerful way to monitor ecosystems

Don't miss this deep dive into a technology shaping the future of ocean and nature conservation.

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Healthy Seas is a marine conservation organization whose mission is to tackle the ghost fishing phenomenon and turn this waste into an opportunity for a more circular economy. They do this through clean-ups, prevention, education, and working with partners who recycle and repurpose this material. The podcast is hosted by Crystal DiMiceli.

Ioakeim Diamantidis is the General Manager of Diopas, a family-run business based in Greece. For generations, Diopas has been a leader in producing fishing, aquaculture, and sport nets. Now, under the leadership of Ioakeim, the company is pushing the boundaries of innovation in the fishing industry.

One of the standout achievements discussed in the episode is Diopas' pioneering development of the world's first recycled and recyclable fish farming nets. This breakthrough, in collaboration with Aquafil, utilizes ECONYL®, a regenerated nylon, to create a fully circular system. Beyond just the netting, Diopas has also developed ropes and sewing threads made from the same sustainable material. This innovation ensures that, when the nets reach the end of their lifecycle, they can be entirely recycled without the need to separate components—a first in the industry.

But Diopas' commitment to innovation doesn’t stop there. The company is also experimenting with artificial reefs made from netting and working on ecological coatings for nets to reduce the environmental impact of fouling. They’ve even developed nets designed to reduce diesel consumption for fishing boats, offering both environmental and economic benefits.

These forward-thinking projects reflect Diopas' ongoing collaboration with Healthy Seas to recover discarded fishing nets for recycling. Their work with universities and research centers highlights the power of partnerships in driving industry-wide change. Ioakeim’s approach to continuous improvement and risk-taking is inspiring and points the way forward for the future of sustainable fishing and aquaculture.

Tune in to hear more about Diopas' journey, their innovations, and the exciting future of net production and recycling.

If you enjoyed this episode, please be sure to subscribe, rate and review it! This helps to boost its visibility.

Healthy Seas is a marine conservation organization whose mission is to tackle the ghost fishing phenomenon and turn this waste into an opportunity for a more circular economy. They do this through clean-ups, prevention, education, and working with partners who recycle and repurpose this material. The podcast is hosted by Crystal DiMiceli.

In our latest episode of the Healthy Seas Podcast, we explored an innovative approach to education that’s not just about learning—it’s about living and interacting with the world around us. Our guest, Dr. Aristea Kyriakou, founder of the European Outdoor Education Hub, shares fascinating insights on how outdoor education can transform not only how students learn but also how they connect with their environment.

Outdoor education is more than just taking lessons outside. It’s a comprehensive methodology and philosophy that places students in natural settings, engaging them directly with their environment. Unlike traditional classroom-based instruction, which often relies on theoretical learning, outdoor education emphasizes experiential learning. This approach allows students to interact with their surroundings, engage multiple senses, and gain practical understanding through hands-on activities.

Aristea’s work with Healthy Seas in our Operation Ghost Farms exemplifies this methodology. By combining cleanups of abandoned fish farms with educational activities for kids, the program not only addresses immediate environmental issues but also fosters a deep, personal connection between students and their natural surroundings.

Listen to the full episode to learn how outdoor education can revolutionize learning and inspire future environmental stewards.

If you enjoyed this episode, please be sure to subscribe, rate and review it! This helps to boost its visibility.

Healthy Seas is a marine conservation organization whose mission is to tackle the ghost fishing phenomenon and turn this waste into an opportunity for a more circular economy. They do this through clean-ups, prevention, education, and working with partners who recycle and repurpose this material. The podcast is hosted by Crystal DiMiceli.