Jessica C. is an environmental engineer from Long Island, New York with a passion for wildlife.
Where did your whale love start?
It definitely started with my project, although my whale love grew more once I saw the documentary “Sonic Sea”. It honestly angered me once I learned about how much damage us humans do to whales, specifically from putting too much noise into the water. I knew that certain methods of finding oil were devastating for whales and dolphins, but I honestly never realized how big of an issue the sound from cargo ships and other human induced noises were to them. Ever since that documentary, I’ve wanted to help whales somehow. It’s still a goal of mine to get more involved in whale/dolphin conservation and public awareness.
What current ocean conservation issue do you feel most strongly about?
Plastic. Since learning about how big of an issue plastic is to ocean life, I’ve realized how much plastic I use every day, and thinking about how many people use just as much plastic really frightens me. The amount of noise pollution in the ocean is also very concerning to me, and it’s something I don’t think a lot of people realize is an issue.
What have you changed in your life to help save whales?
I try to limit my plastic use, for example by bringing utensils to work for lunch rather than using plastic forks and knives. I also try to not use straws whenever they are offered to me in restaurants, etc. Also, since my Maui’s Dolphin project, I’ve tried to increase public awareness simply by word of mouth. I’ve shared my story with friends and family, and even at work, and honestly try to talk about whales and dolphins whenever I can!
What advice would you give to others to take steps in their lives to help whales?
Watch documentaries that are available, because they really are eye-opening. After being presented the facts, it’s really hard not to care and not want to somehow help these magnificent creatures.
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