Turning Tides: Sustainability Measures for Shark Conservation

This major project paper explores the critical role of environmental documentary films in addressing the lack of ocean-related environmental education programs in academic and non-academic settings. Focusing on marine conservation and biodiversity, particularly sharks, the study showcases how sharing scientific knowledge through documentary films facilitates easy and comfortable engagement with ocean-related topics. By targeting youth, who are well-acquainted with technology and media, the research emphasizes the potential of documentary films to improve environmental knowledge retention, thus advancing ocean literacy and awareness. The study incorporates in-person observations of at-risk marine environments, such as coral reefs and seagrass meadows, as well as endangered marine species, primarily sharks and rays, to assess specific conservation needs and understand the correlation between ocean and human health. Through visual documentation, the film presents compelling evidence of global ocean health decline, urging governments, policymakers, and the public to prioritize socio-political changes. Among the evidence presented, an interview with marine biologist and shark scientist David McGuire offers valuable support and credibility to the information and examples being shared. Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal #14, the research shares the current state of oceans and their biodiversity. By bridging science, policy, and education through film, it contributes to increasing ocean literacy and inspires conservation behavior. The paper concludes by affirming the effectiveness of film and media as educational tools, breaking language barriers and providing universally understandable evidence that encourages future efforts to promote ocean stewardship.