Issue 102 - November 2023
North Atlantic Right Whale Population Stabilizes, But Human-Induced Threats Remain Critical, Scientists Warn
Updated numbers indicate a leveling off, with an equal number of animals being born into the population as are being killed.

After years of continued decline, the North Atlantic right whale population may be beginning to level off, though scientists emphasize that the critically endangered species still faces significant ongoing threats from human activities.
Each year, the North Atlantic Right Whale Consortium releases the annual population estimate for the species using the most up-to-date data, including calves added to the population since the previous year. In a report being released this week at the Consortium’s annual meeting October 24–25 in Halifax, Nova Scotia, scientists used these updated data to recalculate annual estimates of the right whale population since 1990. The 2021 estimate was recalculated as 364 (+5/-4 for a range of error)—primarily due to the 18 calves born in 2021, many of which were recently catalogued—and the 2022 estimate is 356 animals (+7/-10), suggesting the downward trajectory for the species could be slowing. These estimates are the result of a collaboration among scientists from the New England Aquarium’s Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). (NOAA plans to post the accompanying tech memo on Oct. 23, available at this link once live.)
“While certainly more encouraging than a continued decline, the ‘flattening’ of the population estimate indicates that human activities are killing as many whales as are being born into the population, creating an untenable burden on the species,” said Heather Pettis, a research scientist in the Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life at the New England Aquarium and the executive administrator of the North Atlantic Right Whale Consortium.


Scientists are also sharing reports on right whale deaths, entanglements, and vessel strikes at this week’s Consortium meeting. There have been two detected deaths of right whales in 2023: a 20-year-old male struck and killed by a vessel and an orphaned newborn calf. While it is promising to have only two documented deaths, the good news is tempered by the fact that research shows roughly two-thirds of North Atlantic right whale deaths go undetected. Additionally, there continue to be elevated numbers of human-caused injuries to this population. The impacts of these injuries from fishing gear entanglements and vessel strikes, the leading causes of the North Atlantic right whale’s decline, are delayed when calculating the species’ population size, scientists noted.

“Many of these injuries will likely lead to death, while other injured or sick whales may not be able to reproduce because of their condition. This is an important piece of the right whale puzzle. We can’t just focus on [detected] bodies. We must also reduce all injuries that harm this species if they are to turn the corner,” said Philip Hamilton, senior scientist at the New England Aquarium’s Anderson Cabot Center and the identification database curator for the Consortium.
To date, New England Aquarium analysis has detected 32 human-caused injuries to right whales in 2023, including six fishing gear entanglements with attached gear, 24 entanglement injuries (with no attached gear), and two vessel strikes. Efforts to protect North Atlantic right whales, one of the most endangered large whale species in the world, have involved conservationists, scientists, government agencies, and the fishing and shipping industries from both the United States and Canada. Despite these efforts, entanglements and vessel strikes continue to threaten the survival of the species and additional measures are needed. Advances in ropeless or “on-demand” fishing technology show promise, though widespread implementation will require significant financial support to escalate the manufacturing of the gear and provide training and support for the fishing industry to adopt gear use. NOAA has also been working to develop vessel speed restrictions that better protect North Atlantic right whales while ensuring both the species and economy thrive. Until the species’ numbers improve, scientists still see the need to address risk factors for their survival.

“We continue to injure and kill these whales at alarming rates, such that they cannot carry out basic biological functions like growth and reproduction. While the absolute population numbers are important, other indicators are discouraging. Until we implement strategies that eliminate injuries and deaths, and promote right whale health, this species will continue to struggle,” said Dr. Scott Kraus, chair of the Consortium.
Calving numbers continue to lag behind what scientists saw a decade ago. This past calving season, just 11 calves were born—fewer than the previous two years (18 in 2021 and 15 in 2022). “Pilgrim” (Catalog #4340) was the only new mother in the group, giving birth to her first calf at 10 years old and breaking a concerning trend for female right whales to delay calving well into their adult years.
“Eleven live calves in 2023 is a very modest number and nowhere near the average of 24 per year from the 2000s. It is particularly alarming that more than 40 adult females between the age of 10 and 20 have yet to birth their first calf when the average first calving was 10 years old in previous decades,” Hamilton noted.
Nearly 500 in-person and virtual attendees from all over the world are expected for this week’s North Atlantic Right Whale Consortium meeting in Canada. Following the meeting, the Consortium will draft a comprehensive annual report on the status of the species; survey, management, and research activities; and recommendations for action. The report will be available early in 2024 and published on the Consortium website.

ABOUT THE NORTH ATLANTIC RIGHT WHALE CONSORTIUM: Started in 1986 as a collaborative data-sharing group, the North Atlantic Right Whale Consortium includes research and conservation organizations, shipping and fishing industries, technical experts, U.S. and Canadian government agencies, and state and provincial authorities, all of whom are dedicated to the conservation and recovery of the North Atlantic right whale. The Consortium is internationally recognized and has been identified as a model for establishing other species-related consortia.
ABOUT THE NEW ENGLAND AQUARIUM: The New England Aquarium is a nonprofit research and conservation organization that has protected and cared for our ocean and marine animals for more than 50 years. We provide science-based solutions and help shape policies that create measurable change to address threats the ocean faces. We inspire action through discovery and help create engaged, resilient communities.
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Issue 102 - November 2023
SEVENSEAS Travel Magazine – November 2023 – Issue 102

Feature Destination
Discovering the Delicate Balance of Palau’s Jellyfish Lake Ecosystem
This unique ecosystem is a testament to the marvels of evolution and ecological resilience, as it has become home to millions of jellyfish, which have adapted to their enclosed environment over the course of thousands of years. Read more…
Feature Destination: Conserving Paradise, Palau’s Marine Protected Areas
Positioned within the Coral Triangle, renowned for its unparalleled coral diversity, Palau’s waters play host to a plethora of iconic species, including the Napoleon wrasse (Cheilinus undulatus), the bumphead parrotfish (Bolbometopon muricatum), and an array of sharks and rays. Read more…
Feature Destination: Conserving Paradise, Palau’s Marine Protected Areas
Picture this: over 500 islands, each telling a tale of nature’s splendour coexisting with mindful tourism. Let’s explore through the wonders of Palau, figuring out the journey, unravelling its delights, and ensuring our visit leaves a legacy of preservation and respect. Read more…
Palau National Marine Sanctuary Named a Blue Spark in Growing Network of Outstanding MPA
Marine Conservation Institute and the Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC) announced that the Palau National Marine Sanctuary (PNMS) is a Blue Spark marine protected area collaboration. Read more…
Dive into Palau’s Underwater Paradise: A Snorkeler’s Dream Journey
Discover an underwater world where vivid coral gardens and rainbow-colored fish await in Palau, a hidden gem where each snorkel dive is a plunge into a vibrant, living masterpiece. Experience the extraordinary blend of natural beauty and marine conservation. See more…
NEWSROOM
Scientists Discover Healthy Deep-Sea Coral Reefs & New Seamounts in the Galapagos
Scientists examining underwater cliff ecosystems onboard the research vessel Falkor (too) using the 4,500-meter robot, ROV SuBastian, have discovered two pristine coral reefs in the waters surrounding the Galápagos Islands. Read more…
Hurricane Effects on Coral Reefs: Active Hurricane Season Could Devastate Coral Reefs
Coastal coral reefs are essential to the survival of marine life, playing a crucial role in protecting our shorelines and providing important recreational resources for diving and fishing, making their health and conservation even more crucial. Read more…
Rewilding Scotland’s Seas: The Fight to Save Shallow Marine Habitats
The coastline of Scotland is known for its raw and rugged beauty, dramatic cliffs and merciless waves. But hidden beneath the waves is a whole other world, unknown to most of us. Read more…
Exploring Marine Biodiversity: UC Davis Undergraduates Unveil the Mysteries of Coastal Systems
UC Davis junior Caroline Donohew watched the everyday power of biology in just five minutes during her summer session class at UC Davis’ Bodega Marine Laboratory, or BML, a coastal research and education facility about 100 miles west of campus. Read more…
New England Aquarium Joins Global Mission to Save African Penguins from Extinction
The picturesque march of the African penguin is more than just a delightful spectacle. It’s a glimpse into the story of a species on the brink of extinction. This year, the New England Aquarium has deepened its commitment to this story. Read more…
North Atlantic Right Whale Population Stabilizes, But Human-Induced Threats Remain Critical, Scientists Warn
After years of continued decline, the North Atlantic right whale population may be beginning to level off, though scientists emphasize that the critically endangered species still faces significant ongoing threats from human activities. Read more…
Sustainable Tourism on the Rise: Helsinki Makes Major Strides in Global Rankings
The results of the latest Global Destination Sustainability (GDS) Index, which ranks the sustainability of tourist destinations, were published on 4 October 2023. In the latest index, Helsinki has climbed eight places and is now ranked the fourth most sustainable tourist destination in the world. Read more…
Life Cycle Assessment Mastery: The Ultimate Guide to Sustainable Decision-Making
LCA is a powerful tool that can be used to make more sustainable decisions. It analyzes the environmental impacts of a product, service, or technology throughout its entire life cycle, from raw material extraction to disposal. Read more…
Diving Sector Could Hold The Key to Advancing UN Sustainable Development Goals
Led by researchers in the Aburto Lab at Scripps Oceanography, the review emphasizes that the diving sector — which includes tourism, scientific research, and instruction — is uniquely poised to promote a sustainable and equitable ocean economy, also known as the “blue economy.” Read more…
Reef-World’s 2023 Impact Report: Driving Sustainable Marine Tourism Amidst Global Challenges
The Reef-World Foundation — the leading voice in sustainable marine tourism and the international coordinator of the UN Environment Programme’s Green Fins initiative —released its Impact Report for 2022 – 2023, outlining a year of significant achievements, innovative initiatives and groundbreaking collaboration. Read more…
Greenpeace USA Confronts Deep Sea Mining Company at Investor Conference
An activist from Greenpeace USA held up a banner that read “Stop Deep Sea Mining” during a presentation by Craig Shesky, Chief Financial Officer of The Metals Company (TMC), at the 121 Mining Investment conference in New York today. Read more…
Jean-Michel Cousteau To Receive a Lifetime Achievement Award for Contributions to Ocean Conservation
Cousteau will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award from The Ritz-Carlton, Bacara on November 11 for 7-plus decades of contributions to the conservation and education of the oceans and marine life. Read more…
Digital 3D Model of WA Shipwreck Shared to Mark Anniversary of Its Loss
The underwater remains of a ship built in Fremantle in 1876 and which sunk off the coast several years later can now be explored with ease thanks to a digital 3D model unveiled by Curtin University and the Western Australian Museum following the recent 143rd anniversary of its loss. Read more…
SEVENSEAS Beach Cleanup & Coral Restoration Events in Marine Protected Areas
In July 2023, SEVENSEAS Media conducted two impactful events in Krabi, Thailand. The Monthly Beach Cleanup Event at Ao Sew Beach saw enthusiastic volunteers remove a staggering 150.6 kilograms of trash, underscoring the pressing issue of marine pollution and the significance of sustainable practices like reducing, reusing, and recycling waste. The organization stressed the importance of proper waste management to protect coastal ecosystems.
Meanwhile, in the face of an unexpected storm, SEVENSEAS Media’s Coral Nursery & Restoration team demonstrated unwavering dedication, rescuing and relocating 75 corals to safer locations, bolstering their chances of survival and growth. The team outlined a comprehensive plan for continued coral recovery missions and data collection efforts throughout the year. The recent storm served as a stark reminder of the urgency to safeguard coral reefs from climate change impacts. We would like to express our gratitude for the support received from individuals and communities in this conservation community. We would not be able to do it without your support. You can make a tax-deductible donation here to keep our publications and Thailand Cleanup Project afloat.
You can either make a direct financial contribution to SEVENSEAS Media through The Ocean Foundation website or connect us with potential donors by sending an email to Giacomo Abrusci, our Editor-in-Chief.
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Signing up for the free Weekly Newsletter & Jobs List will get you a round-up of upcoming events, webinars, meetings, reports, funding opportunities, photos of the week, and recent postings to the jobs list.
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Since 2004, SEVENSEAS Media has fostered an informal and non-partisan platform to promote understanding of key issues and challenges while building partnerships across an increasingly diverse group of marine conservation professionals and students.
Our mission is to promote communication and build partnerships across the global marine community and to identify and address gaps in the community’s work. SEVENSEAS Media achieves this through multimedia promotion and partnerships. The community consists of a diverse and growing group of participants, including non-governmental organizations, government agencies, foundations, bilateral and multilateral agencies, fellowship programs, independent consultants, and academia/students.
If you are interested in contributing or getting involved, email us Here.
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Feature Destination
Feature Destination: Discovering Palau, A Sustainable Paradise in the Pacific

Tucked away in the heart of the Pacific, Palau is like a secret treasure for explorers craving untouched beauty with a dash of sustainability. Picture this: over 500 islands, each telling a tale of nature’s splendour coexisting with mindful tourism. Let’s explore through the wonders of Palau, figuring out the journey, unravelling its delights, and ensuring our visit leaves a legacy of preservation and respect.
Getting There: Reaching Palau requires a bit of planning, as it is located in a remote part of the Pacific. The Roman Tmetuchl International Airport, situated in Airai on Babeldaob Island, serves as the main gateway to Palau. Major airlines such as United Airlines, Asiana Airlines, and China Airlines offer flights to Palau, with connections to Guam, Seoul, or Taipei. Once you arrive in Palau, transportation options include taxis, rental cars, or organized tours to help you navigate the islands.
Accommodation: Palau offers a variety of accommodation options catering to different preferences and budgets. From eco-lodges and boutique resorts to liveaboard diving boats, visitors can choose a setting that aligns with their values and interests. Many establishments are actively involved in conservation efforts, ensuring that your stay contributes to the local economy and environmental protection.
Diving and Marine Exploration: Diving is undoubtedly one of Palau’s main attractions, drawing subaquatic junkies from around the globe to experience its underwater wonders. The country has designated 80% of its maritime territory as a protected sanctuary, showcasing its commitment to marine conservation.

- Blue Corner: This world-renowned dive site is celebrated for its strong currents, bringing in pelagic species such as grey reef sharks (Carcharhinus amblyrhynchos), barracudas, and eagle rays. Divers can hook onto the reef, witnessing a spectacular show as schools of fish swirl around, creating a mesmerizing underwater ballet.
- German Channel: Famous for its cleaning stations, where manta rays (Manta alfredi) come to get groomed by cleaner wrasses, this site offers an intimate encounter with these gentle giants. The clear waters and rich biodiversity make it a favorite among photographers and marine biologists alike.
- Jellyfish Lake: Though not a dive site, this marine lake is a must-visit for snorkelers. Home to millions of stingless jellyfish, visitors can swim alongside these ethereal creatures, experiencing a once-in-a-lifetime interaction.
Outdoor Activities: Palau’s lush landscapes and pristine waters provide ample opportunities for outdoor adventures.
- Kayaking: Explore the Rock Islands by kayak, navigating through hidden lagoons and mangrove channels. This low-impact activity allows you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Palau, spotting wildlife such as the Palau fruit bat (Pteropus pelewensis) and various bird species.
- Bird Watching: Palau is home to several endemic bird species, including the Palau Owl (Pyrroglaux podargina) and the Palau Fantail (Rhipidura lepida). Join a guided bird-watching tour to learn about these unique species and contribute to conservation efforts.
- Hiking: Discover Palau’s terrestrial biodiversity by trekking through its lush forests. The Ngardmau Waterfall trail offers a scenic hike, culminating in a refreshing swim at the base of Palau’s tallest waterfall.

Sustainable Practices: Palau has positioned itself as a leader in sustainable tourism, implementing practices and policies that prioritize environmental protection.
- The Palau Pledge: Visitors are required to sign the Palau Pledge upon arrival, committing to act responsibly and respect the environment during their stay. This groundbreaking initiative reflects Palau’s dedication to preserving its natural heritage for future generations.
- Supporting Local Communities: Engage with Palau’s vibrant culture by participating in community-based tourism initiatives. Attend a traditional dance performance, visit a local farm, or learn about traditional navigation techniques, ensuring that your visit has a positive impact on the local population.
- Plastic-Free Palau: The country has taken significant strides in reducing plastic waste, banning single-use plastics and promoting reusable alternatives. Support these efforts by bringing a reusable water bottle, shopping bag, and other sustainable essentials.
Conservation Efforts: Palau’s conservation initiatives extend beyond its marine environments, encompassing terrestrial ecosystems and wildlife protection.
- Protected Areas Network (PAN): The PAN is a network of marine and terrestrial protected areas, ensuring the conservation of Palau’s unique biodiversity. Visitors can contribute to these efforts by paying entry fees and adhering to guidelines that safeguard these fragile ecosystems.
- Endangered Species Protection: Palau is home to several endangered species, including the Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) and the Dugong (Dugong dugon). Support conservation initiatives by respecting wildlife, maintaining a safe distance, and reporting any illegal activities.
Palau’s commitment to sustainability and conservation sets it apart as a travel destination, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore an unspoiled paradise while contributing to the preservation of its natural and cultural heritage. By embracing responsible tourism practices, engaging with local communities, and supporting conservation initiatives, travellers can play a vital role in ensuring that Palau remains a spotless paradise. Experience the unparalleled beauty of Palau, while ensuring that your journey leaves a positive imprint on this idyllic archipelago. From its crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life to its lush terrestrial landscapes, Palau invites you to explore, learn, and contribute to a legacy of preservation and sustainable tourism. Whether you’re diving in the azure depths, kayaking through serene lagoons, or learning about the rich cultural traditions of the Palauan people, your experiences will be enriched by the knowledge that you are part of a global community working to protect this incredible destination.
As you explore the azure waters, walk the untouched forest trails, or engage with the age-old traditions of the Palauan people, remember that you are part of a global community that values sustainability, respect, and shared responsibility. Your journey in Palau is not just about discovering a new destination but about becoming an ambassador for a sustainable future.

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Issue 102 - November 2023
Feature Destination: Conserving Paradise, Palau’s Marine Protected Areas

In the heart of the Western Pacific, the archipelago of Palau stands as a testament to the extraordinary biodiversity of marine life, housing over 500 islands, more than 1,300 species of fish, and 700 species of coral. Positioned within the Coral Triangle, renowned for its unparalleled coral diversity, Palau’s waters play host to a plethora of iconic species, including the Napoleon wrasse (Cheilinus undulatus), the bumphead parrotfish (Bolbometopon muricatum), and an array of sharks and rays. The country’s pioneering efforts in marine conservation have positioned it at the forefront of global marine protected areas (MPAs) initiatives, reflecting a deep-rooted commitment to preserving its aquatic ecosystems.
Palau’s journey toward marine conservation has been characterized by a proactivity that saw the establishment of its first no-take zone in the Ngardok Nature Reserve in the 1990s. This marked the beginning of a widespread movement to expand the network of MPAs across the nation, culminating in the designation of approximately 80% of its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) as a marine sanctuary by 2023, a significant portion of which is fully protected no-take zones. These conservation efforts are underscored by a commitment to scientific research, with the design and management of Palau’s MPAs being meticulously guided by ecological principles.
The scientific foundation of Palau’s MPAs is robust, ensuring that they fulfill their intended purposes of preserving biodiversity, restoring fish stocks, and bolstering the resilience of marine ecosystems. The country has engaged in collaborations with a range of international and local scientific institutions, undertaking extensive marine biological surveys, habitat mapping, and monitoring programs. This scientific rigor is imperative, as Palau’s marine ecosystems are confronted with a barrage of threats, including illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, climate change, and land-based pollution.

Climate change, in particular, presents a formidable challenge, manifesting in coral bleaching, ocean acidification, and rising sea levels, all of which threaten the delicate balance of marine life. Despite these challenges, Palau’s unwavering commitment to marine conservation has borne fruit, with the establishment of no-take zones leading to a remarkable resurgence of fish populations. Studies indicate a substantial increase in biomass and abundance of key species within protected areas, corroborating the efficacy of Palau’s conservation strategies.
The spillover effect, wherein fish from protected areas migrate to adjacent fishing grounds, has augmented local fisheries, delivering tangible economic benefits to local communities. This success is intertwined with Palau’s rich tradition of conservation, with the country’s efforts being significantly influenced by traditional knowledge and practices. The “bul,” a customary Palauan practice of instituting temporary fishing bans to replenish marine life, has been seamlessly integrated into contemporary conservation strategies, fostering a unique conservation ethos.
As Palau sets its sights on the future, it remains steadfast in its dedication to marine conservation, exploring innovative strategies and fortifying the enforcement of MPA regulations. The country is equally committed to enhancing the resilience of its marine ecosystems to climate change, acknowledging the indispensable role of healthy marine environments in mitigating the impacts of global warming. Through an unwavering commitment, rigorous scientific research, and adaptive management, Palau’s MPAs are poised to continue their trajectory of success, preserving the archipelago’s marine wonders for future generations and serving as an exemplary model for global marine conservation efforts.

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