Summary
In this episode of the Star Talk podcast, Neil deGrasse Tyson and co-host Chuck discuss the achievements of science pioneers with guest Danni Washington, a marine biologist and founder of the ocean conservation organization Big Blue. They focus on the accomplishments of two women in particular: Vera Rubin, an astronomer who discovered dark matter, and Alice Ball, a chemist who developed a cure for leprosy. They also discuss the work of Janaki Ammal, a botanist who developed a new strain of sugar cane and protected biodiversity in India. The conversation emphasizes the importance of curiosity and perseverance in scientific discovery.
Danni Washington also discusses her book on scientific pioneers and her mentor, Dr. Sylvia Earle, a renowned oceanographer and explorer. She highlights the importance of ocean conservation and the pressing issue of ocean warming and acidification, which can have severe impacts on climate stability and marine life. Washington also talks about her organization's efforts to teach young people about the ocean through art and science.
The conversation also delves into the concept of blue carbon, which involves planting marine plants like kelp, mangroves, and sea grass beds that absorb carbon dioxide from the water and atmosphere. Developing an underwater plant ecosystem could help decarbonize the world and make it more livable. The conversation ends with a discussion on ocean conservation and plastic waste.
Overall, the podcast episode is informative and engaging, with a friendly conversational tone. It highlights the achievements of scientific pioneers and the importance of curiosity and perseverance in scientific discovery. It also emphasizes the pressing need for ocean conservation and the potential of blue carbon to help decarbonize the world.
