Despite the International Whaling Commission's (IWC) 1986 moratorium on commercial whaling, countries such as Iceland, Norway, and Japan continue to pursue whaling, citing objections or reservations to the ban. Japan, having previously classified its whaling as "scientific research," now engages in commercial whaling openly following its departure from the IWC in 2019. This persistence in whaling, despite global opposition, challenges conservation efforts and raises concerns about the sustainability of whale populations.
The moratorium was originally intended as a temporary measure to allow whale populations to recover from over-exploitation. However, over 40 years later, the debate continues, with pro-whaling nations advocating for the ban's lifting. These nations argue that current conservation measures and stock assessments should justify a reevaluation of the moratorium. However, strong resistance from anti-whaling countries and civil society has prevented any rollback of the ban.
This ongoing conflict highlights the need to address whaling within the framework of the United Nations' 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Central to this agenda are the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 14, which aims to conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas, and marine resources. OceanCare, an international marine conservation organisation based in Switzerland, plays a pivotal role in advancing these goals.
OceanCare's Role in marine conservation
Founded in 1989, OceanCare has dedicated itself to marine wildlife protection, holding Special Consultative Status on marine issues with the UN Economic and Social Council. The organisation’s mission aligns with several SDGs, including SDG 14, by working against ocean pollution and striving to protect threatened marine species.
OceanCare’s approach is grounded in extensive scientific research and data, enabling it to address complex marine threats effectively. The organisation's focus includes combatting various forms of pollution and advocating for the conservation of marine biodiversity. It supports the IWC’s role in protecting whale populations and calls for the strengthening of the commercial whaling moratorium.
Whaling and the SDGs
SDG 2: End hunger and promote sustainable agriculture
Pro-whaling arguments suggesting that whale hunting addresses global food security are flawed. Whales are slow-breeding and highly vulnerable species, and their populations have been severely depleted. There is little evidence to suggest that whales significantly threaten fisheries, and their recovery could potentially enhance marine productivity, benefiting fisheries as well.
SDG 3: Ensure healthy lives
The consumption of whale meat poses health risks due to high levels of pollutants accumulated in marine food chains. This is contrary to the goals of ensuring good health for all, as stipulated by SDG 3.
SDG 8: Promote sustainable economic growth
Whale watching, a growing eco-tourism sector, generates significant economic benefits and employment opportunities globally. However, whaling threatens this industry, as it relies on healthy whale populations. The disruption of migratory patterns due to whaling affects whale watching industries, particularly in countries that depend on this form of tourism.
SDG 12: Ensure sustainable consumption and production
Commercial whaling contradicts the principles of sustainable consumption. The historical over-exploitation of whale populations exemplifies the impacts of unsustainable practices. Although the moratorium has aided recovery, many whale populations are still far from their pre-exploitation levels, underscoring the need for continued protection.
SDG 13: Combat climate change
Whales play a crucial role in marine ecosystems and contribute to the ocean’s role as a carbon sink. Their presence and activities enhance marine productivity and support biodiversity. Protecting whale populations aligns with efforts to combat climate change, as their recovery could help increase carbon sequestration and support healthier ocean ecosystems.
Recommendations and future directions
OceanCare advocates for several key actions to address the whaling issue within the context of the SDGs:
- Oppose any proposals that threaten the moratorium on commercial whaling.
- Support the cessation of commercial whaling and evolve the IWC into a modern conservation body aligned with the 2030 Agenda.
- Address over-fishing and other threats to food security instead of relying on whale hunting.
- Promote the socioeconomic value of whales in eco-tourism and ecosystem services.
- Reform the IWC to enhance its role in achieving SDG 14 and collaborate with other intergovernmental bodies.
OceanCare’s extensive experience and commitment to marine conservation, alongside its focus on pragmatic, fact-based solutions, underscore the importance of protecting whales and aligning conservation efforts with global sustainability goals. The ongoing challenges of whaling highlight the need for innovative approaches to ensure the long-term protection of marine ecosystems and the species that inhabit them.
Sources: https://www.oceancare.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/OceanCare_Briefing_SDG_Whaling_EN_2022.pdf
More information: https://www.oceancare.org/
Youtube credits: https://www.youtube.com/@OceanCareOrg
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