Protecting whales from collisions with ships is an urgent problem that requires innovative solutions and global collaboration. Recent studies demonstrate high risk and what preventive measures can be
92% of global navigation routes overlap with cetacean habitats
The collisions between ships and whales represent one of the main threats for the survival of cetaceans. A recent study published in Science revealed that 92% of the cetacean habitats coincide with global navigation routes.
Analyzing over 435 thousand localizations of whales and paths of almost 176 thousand ships, the researchers discovered that less than 7% of the areas at risk adopts mitigation strategies. An important fact that emerges is the speed of ships, which often exceeds 20 knots: reducing speed under 13 knots could significantly reduce the risk of collisions.
These results align with the research of the World Sustainability Foundation, which examined the impact of collisions in Important Marine Mammals Areas (IMMA)with a particular focus on the Mediterranean Sea, where species such as common whale and sperm whale are particularly vulnerable. The intensity of maritime traffic in this area aggravates the risk to these animals.
Collisions between ships and whales: a risk not only for the species but also for maritime safety
The problem of collisions between ships and whales does not only concern the Mediterranean. The study published in Science identified other high -risk areas, such as the Northern Atlantic, where the Franca whale is particularly vulnerable due to its slowness and the Pacific, where the navigation routes overlap with the migratory paths of different species of whales.
Collings not only threaten the life of cetaceans but also involve economic and operational risks for navigation companies, with damage to ships and dangers for the crew.
Technologies, sustainable practices and awareness among solutions to prevent collisions
To combat the problem, several practicable solutions emerged. One of the main is the reduction of ship speed. In addition, the redirection of routes and the use of advanced technologies, such as infrared cameras and automated observation systems, can help prevent collisions. The Friend of the Sea organization introduced the “Whale-Safe certification”intended for maritime operators who adopt sustainable practices to avoid accidents with cetaceans.
Another fundamental aspect is to raise awareness of the public. A survey conducted by World Sustainability Foundation He revealed that half of the population is not aware of the seriousness of this problem. Paolo Bray, founder of Friend of the Sea, said: “Only with greater awareness can we hope to collect the necessary support to implement effective solutionsยป.
The importance of collaboration
The challenge of collisions between ships and whales requires global and coordinated action. Studies suggest that implementing management strategies in only 2.6% of the ocean surface could protect the main hot points for cetaceans. The World Sustainability Foundation has urged governments, navigation companies and the public to collaborate to transform these recommendations into concrete actions.
Balene protection and future: maritime safety and global responsibility
The protection of whales is not only a matter of conservation, but also of maritime safety and global responsibility. These marine mammals, already decimated by hunting, now face a new threat that we can fight thanks to science, innovation and cooperation. The example of collaboration with the Italian Shipping & Logistics Agency (Isla), which supported the study of Friend of the Sea, shows how every step towards the protection of the oceans is an investment in our future.
Through preventive actions and international collaboration, we can guarantee that whales continue to thrive in the oceans, maintaining their vital role in marine ecosystems.
For more information, visit the Whale Ship Strikes Dossier 2024 and the page Save the Whales.