Classical Conservation Conversation

It is peak whale season in Hawaiʻi. Dr. Lum highlights the history of World Whale Day, which began in 1980 to raise awareness about whales and their threats. Learn about the different whale types - baleen whales vs. toothed whales - and examine the cultural and spiritual importance of whales in traditions of the Pacific.

In honor of Presidents’ Day, Dr. Lum discusses the historical significance of U.S. presidents establishing national parks and protected areas. The conversation is followed by Jherek Bischoff's "So Fragile, So Blue" with William Shatner and the National Symphony Orchestra.

Dr. Lum continues to showcase the diversity of the Chineze zodiac, this time focusing on their relatives in the wild. He focuses on the snake, the goat, the monkey, the chicken, the dog and the bear with commentary on the importance of biodiversity and conservation efforts to continue the rich heritage celebrated during the Lunar New Year.

Celebrate the Lunar New Year with Dr. Shawn Lum! Dr. Lum presents a roll call celebrating the diversity of the Chinese zodiac, highlighting its animals and their Pacific relatives. The fascinating animals chosen for the zodiac continue to amaze and delight, reminding us of the importance of conservation efforts to protect the animal kingdom.

In this episode, Dr. Lum discusses the recognition of legal personhood for non-human entities, highlighting the Whanganui River's status in Aotearoa as a legal person under the Te Awa Tupua Act. He delves into the need for broader policy changes beyond legal recognition to protect nature, noting that local communities, particularly indigenous peoples, have the emotional and practical knowledge to manage nature effectively, aligning with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s vision of equal rights.

As we enter the new year, Dr. Lum reflects on the concept of Aloha. Inspired by an NHK World program about nature photographer Junji Takasago's encounter with Hawaiian healer Kaipo Kai, Dr. Lum explores Takasago’s emphasis on the importance of Aloha in interactions with nature and people.

Classical Conservation Conversation with Dr. Shawn Lum began in April 2024 as a way to celebrate Earth Day. Eight months later, Dr. Lum talks about his weekly research in finding news on nature and conservation and how it relates to the culture and the people of the Pacific.

As we head into the new year, Dr. Shawn Lum encourages us to take the time to remember the people, places and events that shaped the past year. Reflecting on the state of nature in 2024, he acknowledges a significant decline in global wildlife populations but highlights a study that offers hope. The study shows that conservation efforts—such as controlling invasive species, restoring habitats and practicing sustainable management—are working.

In this episode, Dr. Shawn Lum offers gift ideas to share with nature lovers this holiday season. Not only do these gift ideas bring delight, but many also support vital conservation efforts. This festive season, your loved ones can receive gifts with profound and magical returns and make a positive impact on the environment.

With Christmas fast approaching, many are embracing holiday traditions filled with revelry, retail and, for some, religion. Christians and non-Christians know the story of the birth of Jesus, where a star guides the wise men to Bethlehem. Upon arrival, they present the newborn with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. In this classical conservation conversation, Dr. Shawn Lum discusses the origins, production and significance of frankincense and myrrh