Series 2 of the Shark Trust podcast, dubbed “Living with Sharks,” started this week, with the first episode being released Tuesday, May 12.
Sharks have lived in the ocean for over 400 million years. But due to decades of overfishing, their populations have dropped dramatically. At the same time, human populations have grown, and more and more people are taking part in activities in the ocean. When conservation works, and we see shark populations recovering in certain areas, how do we make sure humans and sharks can safely share the same spaces?
The new season of the Shark Trust Podcast explores what it really means to live alongside sharks. From fisheries and tourism to coastal communities, shark bite incidents, education and conservation conflict, this series looks at the challenges and opportunities that come with coexistence.
Listeners will hear from scientists, conservationists and the people working with coastal communities around the world to better understand how sharks can be better protected while also supporting the people who share their waters.
Because “Living with Sharks” is not just about reducing risk. It is about respect, understanding and finding ways forward that work for people and for the sharks.
The podcast will explore a range of topics with a series of guest experts who will look to answer questions like:
• What happens when people stop fearing sharks… and start living alongside them?
• Can storytelling change how we see sharks… and how we protect them?
• What does “Living with Sharks” really look like when it’s working… in the real world?
• How do we plan and manage recovering shark populations to ensure co-existence is as harmonious as possible?
Episode 1, which is now available on all major podcast platforms as well as on YouTube, features Shark Trust Senior Conservation Officer Cat Gordon, who is the lead on this project. She introduces the topic, the major talking points and where she hopes this work will take us.
New episodes are released every two weeks, and will delve into shark-human conflicts, human behavior and how people respond to sharks.
Additional bonus episodes will also be available.
To learn more about the work of the Shark Trust and the “Living with Sharks” project, and how you can help, go to sharktrust.org.
Check out the Series 2 Episode 1 below.
