Research led by the University of Washington (UW) has quantified the risk of ship collisions with whales worldwide, marking a significant advancement in marine conservation. Published on November 21, 2024, in the journal Science, the study involved a collaboration with André Silva Barreto from the University of Vale do Itajaí (Univali).
The study focused on four endangered whale species: blue, fin, humpback, and sperm whales. Alarmingly, it found that global maritime traffic overlaps with approximately 92% of their distribution areas. Senior author Briana Abrahms emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that ship travel is expected to increase as global trade expands.
Lead author Anna Nisi highlighted that prior research on whale-ship collisions was often conducted at local or regional levels, leaving significant knowledge gaps. The comprehensive analysis involved over 435,000 unique whale sightings and the tracking of 176,000 cargo ships between 2017 and 2022. This data revealed both well-known and previously unidentified high-risk regions, including the Pacific coast of North America and parts of South America, Africa, and Asia.
In Brazil, the study identified high-risk areas for collisions, particularly along the southern coast from Bahia to Rio Grande do Sul. Barreto noted the critical nature of these findings for local conservation efforts.
Despite the alarming results, the research also pointed to potential solutions. Implementing protective measures in just 2.6% of the ocean's surface could safeguard all identified collision hotspots. Currently, only 7% of these high-risk areas have any protective measures, such as speed reductions for ships.
Abrahms remarked on the dual benefits of speed reduction, which not only lessens collision risks but also curtails underwater noise pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, positively impacting coastal communities.
The authors hope this global study will inspire localized research to better map high-risk zones, especially in light of climate change's impact on whale distribution and shipping routes. The research was supported by various organizations, including The Nature Conservancy and NOAA.