In this episode, we’re diving into the world of dolphins, whales, and what it really means to observe marine life responsibly. Guest Joana Castro is marine biologist and founder of AIMM – Marine Environment Research Association. She has spent over two decades researching cetaceans (whales and dolphins) along the coast of Portugal and beyond.
We often think of dolphin and whale watching as harmless, even educational, but Joana reveals why that’s not always the case. From noise pollution to chemical contamination, and from plastic to tourism overload, this conversation sheds light on how human presence, even well-meaning tourists, can deeply affect marine mammals.
She also shares the inspiring story of how seeing dolphins as a child shaped her career, what AIMM is doing to bridge research and conservation, and how tourists like you can spot red flags and make better choices.
In this episode, we talked about:
Whether you're passionate about marine life or simply planning a trip involving the ocean, this episode offers real insight, clear solutions, and powerful motivation.
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🔗 More about AIMM: https://www.aimmportugal.org
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