In this candid and thought-provoking conversation, we speak with Shawn Bath of the Clean Harbor Initiative, a man whose journey from former sealer to devoted marine conservationist challenges assumptions and bridges deep divides. In a place where animal welfare advocates and sealers are more often adversaries than allies, Shawn’s collaboration with animal protection organisations is both unusual and remarkable.
Shawn turned away from sealing many years ago, dedicating his life to safeguarding sea life and coastal communities by clearing tonnes of waste from Newfoundland’s sea beds. Prior to our meeting I reflected on the difficulty of reconciling the past, why forgiveness matters when we find shared purpose, and the courage it takes for a man like Shawn to stand with “the enemies” of sealers and face hostility for doing what’s right.
This is a story of transformation, common ground, and the belief that change deserves recognition not condemnation.
