A recent study by an international team of researchers has revealed new insights into the collision risks between ships and whales.
The research is the first of its kind to analyze this issue on a global scale. The team suggests that regulating marine traffic in just 2.6% of the world’s oceans can greatly reduce the number of deadly whale strikes.
Four recovering whale species
Dr Jennifer Jackson from the British Antarctic Survey, a co-author of the study, explained that the research uses data from four recovering whale species to study global collision risks.
The study found that shipping traffic intersects with 92% of the habitats of blue, humpback, fin, and sperm whales. Ship strikes are mainly along coastal regions, where whales gather for feeding and breeding and where shipping activity is also highest.
The most high-risk zones
The most high-risk zones include the southwest coast of India, the southern tip of Africa, the Strait of Gibraltar, and the coast of California, which are already recognized as key whale strike corridors.
Interestingly, the research also points to previously unrecognised risk areas off the coasts of developing nations in the global south, where whale populations are less studied but equally vulnerable.
High-risk areas
Despite the growing concern, the study found that most of these high-risk areas lack any mandatory measures to reduce ship speeds or change vessel routes.
The researchers suggest that if just 2.6% of the ocean’s surface were protected by such measures, all known high-risk zones could be covered.
Limited success
Even a smaller area of just 0.6% of the ocean could protect multiple species hotspots. However, voluntary speed reduction programs have shown limited success, as some ship owners prioritise speed over safety, even when encouraged to slow down.
The management measures
The management measures to address ship-strike risks are essential for the survival of these whale species and for restoring the balance of marine ecosystems. The loss of historic whale populations has already caused irreparable changes in ocean ecosystems.
Managing other threats
The study also focuses on managing other threats, such as ocean noise pollution caused by shipping. Slower vessel speeds not only reduce the risk of collisions but also decrease noise pollution, which negatively affects whales by disrupting their behaviour, communication, and increasing stress.
The team calls for more long-term monitoring of shipping lanes, particularly in regions with high ship-strike risks, and stricter protective measures to ensure effective whale conservation efforts.
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