- WSF Study Reveals Alarming Ship-Whale Collision Statistics.
- Threatened Whale Species Face Increased Risk from Ship Collisions.
- Important Marine Mammals Areas Identified as Collision Hotspots.
The World Sustainability Foundation (WSF) has published a fine study on ship-whale collisions. The researchers were biologist Federica Azzali, associated with the Italian Shipping & Logistics Agency S.r.l. Thousands to tens of thousands of such collisions happen every year, as it turns out. These accidents are not only a risk to the lives of cetaceans but also cause serious damage to ships and place the lives of crew members in danger. WSF feels that this particular situation is getting worse because of the huge volumes of shipping, reports Safety4Sea.
Threatened Species at Risk
Among the species most affected are those already threatened with extinction: minke whales, sperm whales, blue whales, and right whales. Dr Azzali explains, “These magnificent creatures, already challenged by hunting in the past, now face a new threat. Collisions with ships are becoming a significant factor hindering their recovery.”
Identifying Important Marine Mammal Areas
Important Marine Mammals Areas (IMMAs) are important areas for the protection of cetaceans, according to this study. Such areas include breeding grounds, feeding grounds, and migration grounds that mostly overlap with shipping lanes and thus increase the risk of accidents to higher levels.
Lack of Public Awareness
One alarming aspect that emerged from the research is the lack of public awareness of this problem. A survey conducted as part of the study revealed that at least 50 per cent of the public was unaware of this issue. “Raising awareness is critical,” says Paolo Bray, Founder and Director of the World Sustainability Foundation. “Only through widespread understanding of the problem can we hope to mobilize the resources and support needed to implement effective solutions.”
Call to Action
The World Sustainability Foundation urges maritime authorities, shipping companies, and the public to take action on these results and engage in solutions. Protecting marine species is not only important for maintaining biodiversity but also for maritime security and for the maintenance of international responsibility.
ISLA’s Commitment to Ocean Conservation
“ISLA was very pleased to support the study because, as a company involved in the maritime industry, we feel it is our responsibility to help protect the oceans. We live from the sea and understand the need to preserve it for future generations”, concluded Pietro Coniglio, Managing Director, ISLA.
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Source: Safety4Sea
