The world’s oceans are grappling with a series of worsening crises—from the to overfishing, which endangers marine ecosystems. Yet, while at the TIME100 Talks in Rio de Janeiro on November 4, renowned explorer and oceanographer chose to pause and reflect on a past threat to oceans from the previous century: whaling.
From its emergence as a major industry in the 18th century until its official prohibition in 1986, whale hunters were praised in songs and literature celebrating their feats. This led to the global whale population plummeting dramatically to the brink of extinction.
Then, as Earle recalls, a societal shift occurred when activists brought attention to the whales’ plight: people worldwide began to find whale hunting objectionable. “When I was a child, whalers were lauded,” she commented. “Today, it’s the whales that are being celebrated.”
This reflection holds significant weight as countries globally convene in Brazil for this year’s United Nations COP30 climate conference and associated gatherings. Much of the discourse occurring in cities across Belém will concentrate on how to mobilize governments, businesses, and investors. However, Earle, the 90-year-old oceanographer and explorer, emphasizes that cultural transformation is equally vital. She stated, “It ought to be seen as admirable to care.”
Earle’s strategy of leading with empathy is largely what has made her a widely recognized figure—and, arguably, a missing component in current efforts to address climate change and safeguard natural ecosystems at this critical juncture.
“We can initiate change individually through the choices we make,” she asserts. “While governmental rules and regulations require some modifications, these primarily serve to reinforce people’s actions.”
There is no doubt that this is a challenging period—for both ocean conservation and climate change initiatives. Global temperatures continue their ascent alongside the increasing concentration of carbon in the atmosphere. Oceans contribute to slowing temperature rise by absorbing a large portion of the carbon emitted by humans—but scientists warn they may be approaching their limit. Concurrently, marine ecosystems are suffering. Ocean temperatures are rising rapidly, jeopardizing coral reefs and other sea life. Both overfishing and widespread human pollution entering the ocean exacerbate these challenges. She declared, “We are on a rapid course to create a planet that no longer functions in our favor.”
Earle championed the High Seas Treaty, a legal framework aimed at protecting biodiversity in international waters, and consistently advocates for global actions to safeguard oceans. Nevertheless, much of her current focus revolves around engaging a broader segment of society. Mission Blue, her non-profit dedicated to ocean preservation, has identified crucial “hot spots” for conservation and is committed to equipping local communities with the necessary tools to preserve their marine ecosystems. She stated, “Every single one of us, all life on Earth, relies on the existence of a thriving ocean.”
Earle has not been alone in these efforts to employ empathy and interconnectedness to further nature protection. Primatologist , who passed away in October at 91, utilized her documentaries and public persona to demonstrate the link between primates and humans—thereby helping people worldwide connect with the natural environment. In Rio, Earle recounted the reasons for Goodall’s self-proclaimed optimism—including the human spirit and the potential of youth—and urged people to channel that energy.
“Understanding is fundamental to caring,” Earle remarked. “And there has never been a more opportune moment to take what is known and translate it into action.”
TIME100 Talks: Reimagining the Future of Our Oceans with Sylvia Earle was put on by official timepiece Rolex.
