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Letter to the editor

Grandson also has passion for oceans

By JACOB H. FRIES
Published June 9, 2007

ADVERTISEMENT Phillipe Cousteau, during a question and answer session with the St. Petersburg Times at the Mahaffey Theater. He is in town to publicize World Ocean Day.

ST. PETERSBURG - Philippe Cousteau, grandson of famed oceanographer Jacques Cousteau, inherited not only the legend's name, but also his passion for the oceans and all the creatures - including us - that depend on them.

Chief ocean correspondent for Animal Planet, Cousteau is creating a series of ocean documentaries, in part to spread the message of conservation. He is in town for World Ocean Day and will take part in tonight's panel discussion on oceans and what we can do to preserve them.

We spoke to him Friday.

What is the state of the world's oceans?

We're in a pretty dire situation. Our fish are over-exploited, 27 percent of the coral reef is gone. We've got serious problems ... but fortunately people are beginning to get behind these issues.

Why has the issue of global warming had a hard time garnering support?

Because it threatens the status quo to such a great extent. I mean, it rocks the boat, to say the least. ... The solution of climate change is so drastic, it's hard for people to understand.

What can a person do to help our oceans?

One of the messages we're trying to get out is that everything you do makes a difference. The question is: What kind of a difference do you want to make? ... Think about legislation. Politicians respond to votes. Think about what you're buying. Think about what's in your house, even your light bulbs.

You were with Steve Irwin, the Crocodile Hunter, when he was killed by a stingray. What was the TV icon like when the cameras were turned off?

Just slightly less enthusiastic as when the cameras were rolling. He was funny and warm. He was a great guy.

Have any message for Floridians?

Water. I lived in Vero Beach for a year. Water is critical here. People have to get over this monster lawn, fertilizer thing. ... Get over the lawns!

Jacob H. Fries can be reached at jfries@sptimes.com or 727 893-8872.

FAST FACTS:

Environmental celebration

What: Joint celebration of World Environmental Day (June 5) and World Ocean Day (June 8).

When: 7 p.m. today.

Where: Mahaffey Theater, 400 First St. S, St. Petersburg.

Details: $15; seniors and military, $5; younger than 18, free. Free for students from the University of South Florida, Eckerd College and Stetson College of Law with student ID. Free for Pinellas School Board employees with ID. Call 898-2100 or 892-5767.

[Last modified June 8, 2007, 23:41:48]