COMBATING CLIMATE SCEPTICISM WITH DOLPHIN DUDE
As a fellow environmentalist I know firsthand how important it is to combat climate scepticism, especially when it comes to the ocean and the incredible creatures that live within it. Climate change is not only real, but it's also having a profound impact on the ocean, which plays a central role in Dolphin Dude the Movie. The film showcases how marine ecosystems are struggling due to human activities, with characters like Dolphin Dude and his friends fighting against threats such as plastic pollution, coral bleaching, and overfishing—challenges directly tied to climate change.
Our oceans have absorbed about one-third of the CO2 produced by humans, as well as 90% of the excess heat caused by the rise in greenhouse gases (GHGs). This has serious consequences for the health of ocean wildlife, which is something Dolphin Dude brings to life in an engaging and educational way for children. The characters' mission in the film isn’t just about survival; it’s about showing kids that caring for the planet, especially the ocean, is cool—and essential.
One argument from climate sceptics revolves around what the "ideal" temperature of Earth should be. The film touches on this issue through the lens of ocean conservation. The relatively stable climate of the Holocene, which began after the last ice age, allowed human civilizations to flourish—many of which, not coincidentally, are located along coastlines. The oceans provided food, travel routes, and climate moderation, just as they do today. In Dolphin Dude, we emphasize how ocean health is critical for human and marine life alike. The film showcases how maintaining a healthy ocean isn’t just about the dolphins, manta rays, or coral reefs—it’s also about protecting the very system that makes life on Earth possible.
Another sceptical question often raised is why pre-Industrial temperatures are used as the baseline for climate change. In Dolphin Dude, we demonstrate that the oceans have been the unsung heroes, absorbing much of the extra heat from the sun due to GHGs, which prevents the Earth's temperature from rising even more than it already has. However, this has come at a cost. Our characters face the repercussions of rising ocean temperatures—such as coral bleaching, which has decimated habitats crucial for countless species, including dolphins.
Revised Holocene temperature record affirms role of greenhouse gases in recent millennia - Rutgers University
In the real world, coral reefs serve as vital ecosystems for creatures like dolphins, octopuses, manta rays, and jellyfish, all of which are featured in Dolphin Dude. Warming waters cause the vibrant algae in coral reefs to leave, leading to the stark white coral skeletons that struggle to survive. These coral ecosystems play a pivotal role in marine life, providing food, shelter, and protection. Dolphin Dude aims to illustrate these vital connections, inspiring young audiences to understand and care about the ocean’s role in maintaining balance in the face of climate change.
It’s not just about understanding climate change—it’s about taking action. Just as Dolphin Dude and his friends fight to protect their underwater world, we too must take steps to safeguard our planet. In the film, the message is clear: by working together, we can make a difference for future generations of humans, dolphins, and all living beings on this beautiful planet.
