Classical Conservation Conversation

One year after Classical Conservation Conversations began, Dr. Sean Lum reflects on the urgency of environmental action as the 2030 deadline for the UN Sustainable Development Goals approaches. He ties global challenges to the spiritual reflection of seasons like Ramadan and Lent, and shares simple ways to reconnect with Hawaiʻi’s ecosystems and sacred species. Listen as he invites us to reflect, take action, and honor our ancestors by caring for the land and sea.

March 22 is World Water Day, established by the United Nations in 1993. Dr. Lum reflects on its significance and evolving themes, including the 2025 focus on glacier preservation. He highlights water’s cultural importance across the Pacific and the role of traditional practices in addressing today’s water conservation challenges.

Dr. Shawn Lum remembers the work of educator and environmental champion, Ruth Leilani (Lani) Stemmermann. A leading authority on the ʻōhiʻa forest, she advocated for the protection of native vegetation. Lani's dedication to preserving Hawaii's ecosystems serves as a lasting inspiration for environmental stewardship.

Dr. Lum honors Isabella Kauakea Yau Yung Aiona Abbott, the "First Lady of Limu." The first Native Hawaiian woman to earn a PhD in science, she was also the first female and person of color to become a full professor of science at Stanford University.

Dr. Lum explores two special events celebrated on March 3 — Hinamatsuri, the Japanese festival celebrating Girls’ Day, and the more recently declared observance World Wildlife Day, which celebrates the world’s wild fauna and flora. This year’s World Wildlife Day theme is "Wildlife Conservation Finance: Investing in People and Planet," and focuses on continued challenge of securing funding for conservation efforts.

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.