Professional Certificate in Plastic Pollution Impact on Keystone Species
Published on June 24, 2025
About this Podcast
HOST: Welcome to our podcast, today we're talking with Dr. Jane Smith, an expert in marine conservation and the lead instructor for the new course, "Professional Certificate in Plastic Pollution Impact on Keystone Species." Dr. Smith, can you tell us more about what inspired you to create this course? GUEST: Absolutely! I've seen firsthand the devastating effects of plastic pollution on keystone species, and I wanted to create a comprehensive program to help environmental professionals address this critical issue. HOST: That's fantastic. Can you share some current trends in the industry related to plastic pollution and its impact on keystone species? GUEST: Certainly. We're seeing an increased focus on microplastics and their accumulation in both marine and terrestrial ecosystems. This is a growing concern for biodiversity and ecosystem resilience. HOST: Speaking of ecosystems, could you elaborate on how plastic pollution affects habitat degradation and wildlife toxicology? GUEST: Of course. Plastics can release toxic chemicals, which can then accumulate in the tissues of organisms, causing both direct and indirect harm. Additionally, plastics can alter habitats, making them less suitable for native species and more inviting for invasive ones. HOST: That's concerning. What challenges have you faced in teaching this subject, and how have you addressed them? GUEST: One challenge is the interdisciplinary nature of the topic, which requires knowledge in fields like ecology, toxicology, and policy-making. To tackle this, we've incorporated diverse perspectives and case studies to ensure students grasp the complexity of the issue. HOST: Looking to the future, what do you envision for the field of plastic pollution research and its impact on keystone species? GUEST: I believe we'll see more emphasis on prevention strategies, like reducing plastic production and consumption, as well as innovative solutions to clean up existing pollution. We need a collective effort from scientists, policymakers, and the public to tackle this problem. HOST: Dr. Smith, thank you for your insights and for creating this important course. We're excited to see the positive impact it will have on professionals in the field and, ultimately, on our planet. GUEST: Thank you for having me. I'm looking forward to seeing the changes this course can bring, too. Together, we can make a difference.
