Emmett Johnson.
THE STORY
Meet Emmett Johnson, the man who made me want to change tack and become a marine ecologist within the space of our 45-minute interview. Emmett works to conserve and protect the home of Ireland’s marine life while raising awareness and appreciation of the country’s magnificent basking sharks.
Starting out his journey as an enthusiastic conservation volunteer, he told me how a transformational encounter with 70 basking sharks 20 years ago was the trigger for what followed. “I was gobsmacked. It’s like having an encounter with dinosaurs, except it’s right near where you live. It leaves you speechless.”
This encounter propelled his journey into the world of academia, he went on to complete a masters and a PhD which allowed him to “learn about the science and to answer scientific questions”.
Driven by his desire to protect the basking shark, Emmett co-founded The Irish Basking Shark Group in 2009 – an organisation that encourages a better understanding of what lives in our oceans and advocates for policies to protect basking sharks and other marine life. Basking sharks are the biggest fish in the North Atlantic sea and are currently listed as endangered species due to them being overfished for fins and blubber, but Ireland offers them a plankton-filled paradise to bask in. “Ireland is home to hundreds, if not thousands, of basking sharks and we have a huge responsibility to protect them.”
After years of research, hard work, and dedication, last March Emmett and his team at The Irish Basking Shark Group celebrated a huge win. Ireland passed a policy to protect the iconic species, a significant victory for basking sharks and the country’s marine conservation in general.
A big part of what Emmett does is connecting the local community with the majesty of the ocean. “The sea is a place for everyone. Yes, you need to take care and be aware, but have fun and explore.”
THE WHY
I’m passionate about protecting and conserving the natural world and I’m a firm believer that taking direct action and contributing personally to resolving issues is good for the soul.
THE CHALLENGE
It might sound simple, but I recommend that everyone simply walks more. If you can walk rather than drive, then go by foot. Walking is the easiest way to personally experience the natural world that surrounds us. It makes us feel part of nature, because we don’t just sit and observe from behind a glass barrier. Rather, we see, hear, smell and taste life occurring around us. I want to take an active part in life on our planet rather than just chatting about it or looking at it on a screen.
THE HOPE
The revolving cycle and continuity of life on Earth gives me hope. I try to live my life as I want the world to be, and I hope that my small contribution will influence the greater scheme of things.
THE RECOMMENDATION
BOOK - Gaia, A New Look at Life on Earth by James Lovelock. BOOK - The Phenomenon of Man by Pierre Teilhard de Chardin.
To find out more visit www.baskingshark.ie or follow them on Facebook @IrishBaskingSharkProject