François Sarano is a French oceanographer, diver, and former scientific advisor to Captain Jacques-Yves Cousteau. He is a passionate advocate for ocean conservation and a pioneer in developing a new, respectful approach to interacting with marine life, particularly sharks.

Sarano’s career began in the 1970s alongside Cousteau, working on various research and exploration projects around the world. He spent years studying marine ecosystems and documenting the wonders of the underwater world. This experience instilled in him a deep respect for the ocean and its inhabitants, and a growing concern for the threats they face.

Disillusioned with traditional scientific approaches that often treat marine animals as objects of study rather than sentient beings, Sarano began to develop a new philosophy centered around building relationships with sharks. He believes that understanding their behavior and motivations requires empathy and a willingness to abandon preconceived notions of them as mindless predators.

He emphasizes the importance of non-invasive observation, careful attention to body language, and a commitment to minimizing human impact on the animals’ natural environment. Instead of capturing, tagging, or otherwise interfering with sharks, Sarano advocates for patient observation and respectful interaction. This approach has allowed him to gain unique insights into their social structures, communication patterns, and individual personalities.

Sarano’s work challenges the widely held fear and misunderstanding surrounding sharks, highlighting their crucial role in maintaining healthy ocean ecosystems. He actively campaigns against shark finning and other destructive practices that threaten their survival. He argues that by changing our perspective on sharks, we can foster a greater appreciation for their importance and inspire more effective conservation efforts.

Beyond his scientific contributions, Sarano is a gifted storyteller and communicator. Through his books, films, and public appearances, he shares his captivating experiences with sharks and his vision for a future where humans and marine life coexist in harmony. He founded the Longitude 181 association, which promotes responsible diving practices and advocates for the protection of marine biodiversity.

François Sarano’s unwavering dedication to ocean conservation and his innovative approach to studying sharks have made him a significant figure in the marine conservation movement. He is a powerful voice for the voiceless creatures of the sea, urging us to reconsider our relationship with the natural world and embrace a more respectful and sustainable way of life.