What neuroscience reveals about our failure to act ?
As an underwater photographer and filmmaker dedicated to ocean conservation, I attended the UN Ocean Conference in Nice with cautious hope. What I found instead was a now-familiar pattern: elegant speeches, grand commitments… and yet, no binding decisions. I watched with unease as environmental advocates and world leaders shared a stage — the former demanding action, the latter offering timelines. 2033, they said, maybe. If all goes well.
It felt like déjà vu. I had grown up hearing about the Kyoto Protocol, then the Paris Agreement, and now these new pledges, recycled and delayed. Thirty-five years of promises — and the ocean continues to decline. So I asked myself: If I can’t change the summit, can I change the story? In this period of doubt about my own approach as a conservation storyteller, I came across the work of neuroscientist Albert Moukheiber — a clinical psychologist and researcher who studies how we form beliefs, how we resist uncomfortable truths, and why awareness often fails to trigger action. That’s when deeper questions emerged: Why do we remain passive, even when everything is burning around us? And most of all: what can we do to make our messages truly effective? 
1. Why do we remain passive, even when “the house is on fire”?
Albert Moukheiber: What makes action difficult isn’t ignorance — it’s that multiple truths coexist within us. We know climate change is serious, but we also face immediate priorities: work, family, financial stress… These competing priorities are what we call cognitive biases, especially:
Why does our brain react more to nearby danger than to distant threats?
The human brain is wired to respond to immediate danger. If a threat is abstract, far away, or delayed in time, it doesn’t trigger enough of an emotional alarm. This is called the psychological distance bias: the more distant something feels — in space, time, or personal experience — the less urgent it seems. That’s why images of melting ice caps or dying coral reefs often fail to move people, unless they’re tied to concrete consequences in their daily lives. For example, showing rising water in the Seine River or heat waves disrupting Paris’ transport system speaks more directly to a French city-dweller than a glacier breaking in Antarctica. The key is localising the issue: making global crises feel visible, tangible, and close. 
Is there a tipping point where too much emotion actually blocks action?
Yes — we call this emotional saturation or desensitisation. Too many alerts can lead to helplessness or emotional fatigue. But emotion isn’t the problem — it’s the lack of visible solutions. Emotion must be paired with actionable paths: what we can do, how, and with whom. Can beauty (of nature, of images) be a stronger trigger than fear or anger?A sense of awe and wonder is a fundamental emotional driver for memory, engagement, and motivation. Our brains retain what moves us positively. Inspiring stories often have more impact than anxious warnings. 
Does visual repetition — photo series, short videos — strengthen memory?
Yes. The brain learns through repetition and exposure. What we see often becomes more familiar, more acceptable — even more desirable. Short formats, consistent visuals, and memorable slogans help reinforce lasting impressions. How do we reach young or urban audiences disconnected from the ocean? We need stories that speak to their daily reality, not just the ocean’s. You’ll better reach a young urban viewer by talking about air quality or energy costs than by showing a coral reef. It’s about relocating the narrative. 
Why isn’t “nature” alone enough to convince people to care?
Because not everyone feels connected to “nature.” But almost everyone understands money. When we show that climate disasters cost billions, raise taxes, hurt jobs and public health — then the brain makes a link to personal life. We shift from the realm of nature to that of norms: when something is seen as abnormal, it becomes personally relevant. How can we avoid the three “escape routes” our brains use to dodge action? When faced with discomfort (like climate warnings), our brains often seek three exits:
We must avoid lecturing and instead offer entry points — not commands. 
What role does storytelling play in all of this?
Storytelling is the frame through which our brain creates meaning. It’s not the raw data that moves us — it’s how it’s told. That’s why a photo of a solitary dolphin, a heartfelt voiceover, or an immersive film can turn information into lived experience. Our brains need identification, not just information. 
FAQ — Why We Don’t Act & How Images HelpWhy do our brains ignore long-term climate risks?We discount distant threats (temporal discounting) and prefer short-term comfort. Optimism bias (“it won’t hit me”) and habituation to bad news further blunt urgency. How can images change behavior?Compelling visuals trigger emotion and attention, making abstract risks feel concrete. When paired with a simple action (“what you can do next”), images can convert concern into behavior. What is the affect heuristic?It’s a mental shortcut: we judge risks and benefits based on how we feel. Positive affect lowers perceived risk; negative affect raises it — which is why tone and framing matter.
Summary: What neuroscience can teach us about better environmental communication
Seablue Safari Mayotte — Dolphin & Whale Watching, Mantas and Lagoon Exploration Join Seablue Safari Mayotte for an unforgettable day in the lagoon: ethical dolphin and humpback whale encounters, gliding manta rays, and vibrant reefs. Guided by passionate ocean experts including Nils Bertrand. Operating within the Mayotte Marine Park, the team prioritizes respectful wildlife practices and clear briefings for snorkelers, divers and underwater photographers. 
waiting for marine life at Mayotte lagoon with Seablue safari
With its turquoise waters and incredible biodiversity, Mayotte’s lagoon is one of the most pristine in the world. Nils Bertrand, head of Seablue Safari, has been exploring these waters for 25 years. He shares the unique experience of his sea excursions with us.
A humpback whale breaching the surface of Mayotte lagoon
What Can You Expect to See on a Seablue Safari Excursion?
One of Mayotte’s greatest assets is its incredible marine diversity. Whether snorkeling or simply observing from the boat, you’ll witness a true mosaic of species. The coral reefs are teeming with life, forming a vibrant ecosystem. Sea turtles are everywhere, offering magical moments as they peacefully graze on seagrass beds. Then, there are the dolphins—several resident species inhabit these waters, including Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops aduncus), spinner dolphins (Stenella longirostris), spotted dolphins, short-finned pilot whales, and even the rare humpback dolphins (Sousa plumbea). Whale season, from July to October, is a highlight. You can witness fascinating behaviors, such as male escort displays, tender interactions between mothers and calves, and young whales exploring their environment. From February to June, majestic manta rays take center stage. With just a mask and snorkel, you can watch them gracefully spiral above the reefs. For thrill-seekers, we also offer special shark excursions, allowing you to observe these fascinating predators in their natural habitat. And occasionally, we’re lucky enough to encounter truly exceptional visitors—orca, sperm whales, and even dugongs… Here, anything is possible!  Ocean Fine-Art — “Early Light, Dolphins” Dawn swells, silver water, and a pod slipping through first light — a calm, contemplative piece for ocean homes and collectors. 
Mother and son just below the surface of Mayotte lagoon
What Has Been Your Most Memorable Encounter at Sea?
Without hesitation, the orcas in 2015. During peak whale season, a group of about fifteen orcas entered the lagoon to hunt. The spectacle lasted for more than three weeks—an absolutely timeless moment. We were able to witness their intelligence, their hunting strategies, and even incredible interactions with other species. A memory etched forever! 
swimming with orcas with Seablue safari Mayotte
orcas at the surface of Mayotte lagoon
A Full Immersion into Mayotte’s Lagoon
Can you tell us about the different experiences offered by Seablue Safari?
All year round, we set out in search of dolphins. They are ever-present and offer magical encounters. We also explore the coral reefs, perfect for snorkeling, and make stops on pristine white sand islets, the true gems of the lagoon. Certain times of the year offer unique experiences:
For those looking to explore the full diversity of the lagoon, we offer complete island tours. This circuit takes visitors to must-see sites such as the mangroves, Soulou waterfall, the iconic "S Pass," and the white sand islets. These excursions are less focused on wildlife encounters but provide a broader perspective on Mayotte’s history and landscapes. And for thrill-seekers, we have created the Big Fish Out expeditions—a quest for sharks, without scuba tanks, only snorkeling. We search for reef sharks, bull sharks, and even tiger sharks. It’s an adrenaline-packed experience, always conducted with the utmost respect and safety. 
Dive with Manta ray in the blue of Mayotte lagoon
A Lagoon in Danger?
How do you see the evolution of the lagoon since your arrival? Is it in danger?
But it’s not all lost. There are still incredibly well-preserved areas, and we’re lucky to have one of the world’s richest lagoons in terms of biodiversity. We must act quickly, raise awareness, and encourage a more respectful approach to tourism. At Seablue Safari, we try to contribute by educating our visitors and minimizing our impact. Mayotte still has so much to offer, but its beauty is fragile. It’s up to all of us to take care of it. 
Dive on the coral reef in the north of Mayotte lagoon
A Changing Lagoon, A Fragile Balance
NGT: You’ve been observing Mayotte’s lagoon for over 20 years. Have you noticed any changes in the underwater fauna? Nils Bertrand: Yes, and unfortunately, the difference is striking. Twenty years ago, we used to see many more large fish, particularly the Napoleon wrasse, which used to populate the S Pass in large numbers. Today, their presence has become much rarer. The main cause? Excessive fishing pressure. Some iconic fish, which were once an integral part of our excursions, are now harder to observe. Fortunately, Mayotte remains a relatively preserved sanctuary. Compared to other lagoons in the Indian Ocean, our human impact is still limited. We have vast areas where nature is still thriving, but it’s crucial that we ensure we don’t cross a critical threshold. 
Nils Bertrand working on Seablue safari Mayotte over 30 years
From a Childhood Passion to a Marine Vocation
NGT: Can you tell us about your journey? How did you end up in Mayotte? Nils Bertrand: My love for the sea comes from my father, a passionate sailor. With my brothers, who are an integral part of the Seablue team, we grew up on the water. My father even built us an Optimist, our first boat. This passion gradually became a bigger part of my life. However, at first, nothing indicated that I would turn it into a profession. I eventually trained to become a sailing instructor, before specializing as a skipper and yacht delivery captain. It was this path that led me to the Indian Ocean. When I discovered Mayotte and its lagoon, it was a revelation. I was fascinated by the tropical marine world, and especially by marine mammals: dolphins, whales… From that moment, sailing became a means of exploration, rather than an end in itself. I realized that what truly captivated me was the encounter with wildlife, the connection with these animals in their natural habitat. That’s how Seablue Safari was born—an adventure driven by curiosity, respect, and the desire to share this passion. FAQ — Mayotte Scuba DivingBest time to dive in Mayotte?Warm tropical water most of the year. Shoulder seasons often bring excellent visibility; always check local wind/current forecasts with your operator. Snorkeling or scuba — what’s best?Snorkeling shines inside the lagoon (turtles, seagrass, coral heads). Scuba opens the passes and outer reef for pelagics and dramatic topography. Will I see manta rays and turtles?Turtles are frequent; manta rays are seasonal and weather-dependent. Sightings are never guaranteed. What certification/experience do I need?Beginner dives are available with guides. For passes and stronger currents, advanced experience and recent logged dives are recommended. Any eco/safety tips?No touch/stand, maintain neutral buoyancy, keep respectful distances, avoid chasing wildlife, and follow your licensed operator’s briefings. 
Adam Island in the North of Mayotte lagoon
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Serge Melesan
Underwater & Fine Art Ocean Photographer Specialist in Fine Art Ocean Photography. Published in Oceanographic Magazine & Earth.org. National Geographic Traveller – Portfolio Winner (2023). Archives
Novembre 2025
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