Andrew Lewin discusses the highlights and concerning moments of the ninth Our Oceans Conference held in Athens, Greece. With 469 new commitments made to protect the ocean, totaling $11.3 billion raised, the conference showcased both progress and challenges. Despite the high number of commitments, the amount raised was lower compared to previous years. Join Andrew as he delves into the outcomes of the conference and explores how individuals can support ocean conservation efforts. Link to article: https://news.mongabay.com/2024/04/annual-ocean-conference-raises-11-3b-in-pledges-for-marine-conservation/ Follow a career in conservation: https://www.conservation-careers.com/online-training/ Use the code SUFB to get 33% off courses and the careers program.   Sign up for our Newsletter: http://www.speakupforblue.com/newsletter   Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3NmYvsI Connect with Speak Up For Blue: Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube   Our Oceans Conference in Athens, Greece The recent Our Oceans Conference in Athens, Greece, was a significant milestone in global ocean conservation efforts. The conference witnessed the announcement of 469 new commitments aimed at protecting the ocean, demonstrating a strong global dedication to marine conservation. These commitments encompass a wide array of initiatives, including the establishment of marine protected areas, sustainable fisheries management, and addressing the impacts of climate change on the ocean. A key highlight of the conference was the substantial funding raised for ocean protection. A total of $11.3 billion was pledged towards various ocean conservation projects, indicating a significant financial investment in safeguarding marine ecosystems. This funding will play a crucial role in supporting the implementation of the commitments made at the conference, ensuring tangible actions are taken to protect the ocean. The commitments made at the Our Oceans Conference reflect a growing acknowledgment of the urgent need to address the threats facing the ocean. From banning harmful fishing practices like bottom trawling to supporting research on ocean and climate interactions, the commitments cover a wide range of issues crucial to ocean health. The conference also emphasized the importance of international collaboration in achieving meaningful progress in ocean conservation. Moving forward, it is essential to ensure that the commitments made at the conference are effectively implemented and monitored. The positive success rate of previous commitments reaching their goals, as mentioned in the episode, provides optimism for the future of these initiatives. By building on the momentum generated at the conference and fostering strong partnerships between governments, organizations, and stakeholders, we can work towards a more sustainable and resilient ocean ecosystem. Overall, the Our Oceans Conference in Athens, Greece, served as a platform for global leaders to unite and showcase their commitment to protecting the ocean. With 469 new commitments and $11.3 billion raised for ocean protection, the conference laid a strong foundation for advancing marine conservation efforts and ensuring a healthier future for our oceans. One of the key takeaways from the podcast episode is the significant progress made at the Our Oceans Conference in terms of commitments and funding to protect the ocean. However, despite these advancements, there is still a long way to go to achieve the goal of protecting 30% of land and water by 2030. Currently, only 7.9% of the global ocean is protected, with only 4.2% being fully or highly protected, meaning no extractive activities are allowed within Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). The episode highlights the slow pace of progress in reaching the 30%