The whale-watching industry, regulators, policymakers and the general public can all benefit from the Whale Watching Handbook, a website dedicated to sustainable and educational whale watching. The website offers free, independent and comprehensive advice, and is divided into sections for different groups of users.
The Handbook is a collaboration between two international organisations concerned with whales, dolphins and porpoises: the International Whaling Commission and the Convention for Migratory Species. The starting point is the latest scientific information on the potential impacts of whale watching on individual whales and the long-term health of whale populations. The result is an extensive Handbook of information developed in consultation with scientists, governments, whale-watching operators and conservation groups around the world.
Content includes an interactive world map containing information about whale watching in more than 30 countries, case studies and best practices for the industry, a species section with illustrations to help identify different species in the water, and educational sections on a range of issues related to whales and dolphins.
For whale watching operators, tour guides and educators: the Handbook helps to offer the best possible experience, manage expectations and maximise customer satisfaction. A range of free, downloadable resources are available including species and topic fact sheets, region-specific ID guides and best practice/lessons learned case studies from operators and guides in a variety of locations around the world.
For regulators and policy-makers: the Handbook contains information on stakeholder engagement, types of management strategy, monitoring and enforcement measures in operation around the world, and a comprehensive library of research and policy papers on the management of whale watching.
For the general public: the Handbook equips those preparing for a trip to make informed and responsible choices, with an interactive map showing which species may be seen in which locations, and fact sheets about those species including illustrations to help identify them, understand their behaviours, and learn more about their lives. The Handbook also explains how information gathered by tourists during a trip could contribute to important research and conservation efforts.
SEE ONLINE HANDBOOK HERE
The Handbook is a living and evolving resource. You can suggest or request new content at secretariat@iwc.int
The International Whaling Commission (IWC)
The International Whaling Commission (IWC) is an intergovernmental organization established in 1946 to regulate and manage the global whaling industry. With over 80 member countries, the IWC sets international rules and regulations on whaling and whale conservation, including setting catch limits, developing conservation measures, and promoting scientific research. One of its most significant achievements was the adoption of a moratorium on commercial whaling in 1986. The IWC also promotes conservation of other cetacean species and addresses emerging issues such as bycatch, whale watching, and marine pollution. Despite ongoing controversies, the IWC continues to play a vital role in regulating and managing the global whaling industry and promoting broader issues related to marine conservation.
This piece was prepared online by Panuruji Kenta, Publisher, SEVENSEAS Media