Japan Proposes Joint Study on Whales' Role in Combating Climate Change
Japan has proposed a joint effort between the International Whaling Commission (IWC) and the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) to study the ecological roles of cetaceans. This move underscores the growing recognition of whales' importance in combating climate change and preserving marine biodiversity.
The workshop report, submitted in 2016, highlights the immense ecological value of whales. These marine giants play a pivotal role in mitigating climate change by fixing and storing carbon, enhancing marine productivity, and promoting biodiversity. Their nutrient-rich excrement, known as whale poop, fertilizes the ocean, fostering plankton growth, which absorbs CO2.
Historically, commercial whaling in the 20th century led to the slaughter of nearly 3 million whales. This decimated whale populations and hindered their ability to combat climate change. However, as whale populations recover, they resume their vital role in carbon mitigation. Yet, threats like bycatch in fishing gear continue to pose challenges to their recovery.
Whales have become a symbol of the environmental movement, embodying the need for robust marine conservation. Strengthening protections for cetaceans is crucial for healing the marine ecosystem and combating climate and ecological emergencies. The IWC, originally established to regulate whaling, now focuses on the ecological value of live whales, reflecting a shift in global priorities towards sustainability and conservation.
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