Why Nauru Is Pushing the World Toward Deep-Sea Mining

A small South Pacific nation gave the International Seabed Authority a two-year deadline to finalize the rules for mining the deep sea, but the jury is still out on when, exactly, deep-sea mining will begin.

Jul 14, 2021 | 950 words, about 4 minutes

Honolulu: A Seabird’s Surprising Five-Star Destination

The white tern—Manu-o-Kū—has excited ornithologists, its population growing within the busiest of Hawai‘i’s urban landscapes.

Jun 23, 2021 | 3,200 words, about 16 minutes

COVID-19 Lockdowns Show a World Without Parachute Science

With international scientists barred from traveling, local scientists in the Pacific islands are taking the chance to lead.

Jun 16, 2021 | 950 words, about 4 minutes

Coastal Job: Tuna Auction Manager

Brooks Takenaka keeps the fish flowing at the Honolulu Fish Auction.

May 28, 2021 | 600 words, about 3 minutes

How a Frenzy for Echinoderms Exposed and Entrenched Inequities in a Fishing Community

In 2011, a covert trade in sea cucumbers exploded on the island nation of Palau, nearly decimating the animal population. Women are still paying the price 10 years later.

May 27, 2021 | 800 words, about 4 minutes

Decolonizing Seabirds

A cultural working group is developing Hawaiian names for seabirds in Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument, after an extensive period of colonization eradicated many of those names.

May 12, 2021 | 850 words, about 4 minutes

Making Amends with Makatea

On this French Polynesian island dramatically scarred from mining, locals grapple with whether a new mine will heal or harm the landscape.

May 4, 2021 | 3,100 words, about 15 minutes

An Ancient Turtle Was Just Discovered in the Remains of a Collapsed Church

The rest of the turtle is missing—though there’s a good chance it hasn’t gone far.

Apr 28, 2021 | 700 words, about 3 minutes