Author: Tammy Lane • First Posted: Tuesday, May 11, 2010

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Philippe Cousteau, grandson of the famous underwater explorer, visited Edythe J. Hayes Middle School. "Our planet is one big ocean," he said, noting how astronauts look down and see Earth as a big 'blue' marble.

The grandson of renowned explorer Jacques-Yves Cousteau urged students Tuesday to take care of the Earth’s oceans. 

“Water is the single most important substance on this planet,” Philippe Cousteau told the crowd at Edythe J. Hayes Middle School, noting that one-fifth of the world’s population has inadequate water. “There’s no more fresh water today than there ever was or ever will be.”

Cousteau was in town as a guest of Kentucky Educational Television and the Kentucky Department of Education, who are celebrating the use of digital content by educators across the state. Discovery Education’s chief spokesman for environmental education, Cousteau also was to speak during closing ceremonies of the Student Technology Leadership Program state championship at Rupp Arena and to recognize the educator responsible for streaming the 5 millionth KET EncycloMedia video.

At Hayes Middle School, Cousteau talked about his own experiences as an explorer and storyteller and showed clips from his television specials, including one with the late Steve Irwin, nicknamed the Crocodile Hunter. He also quizzed the kids on some of the ocean’s deadliest creatures, such as the box jellyfish and the saltwater crocodile.

“Oceans are vital to life,” Cousteau explained, noting how they supply protein and oxygen and regulate climate.

With references to the familiar SeaWorld theme park and the movie “Finding Nemo,” he noted how marine life has deteriorated in the Florida Keys – comparing underwater footage from the 1980s and from an expedition last year.

He also talked about the long-term environmental damage and costs of oil spills. He cited the 1989 Exxon Valdez disaster in Alaska as well as the current spill in the Gulf of Mexico, which threatens marshes and marine life from Louisiana to Texas.

In addition, Cousteau lamented the use of plastic grocery bags, which “never go away,” and reminded the kids their actions always have an impact on the environment – whether good or bad.

“Everything you do makes a difference,” he said.

Cousteau, who is president of the nonprofit EarthEcho International, suggested one way that young people can help is by convincing their parents and other adults that conservation and preservation efforts are crucial.

“Each one of us can affect a lot of people in our lives,” he said. “You’re not only the leaders of tomorrow, but amazing leaders today with power to change the world.”