Warning that increase in shipping around South Africa to avoid Middle East could harm whales
Summary
Scientists warn that more ships are sailing around South Africa to avoid the Middle East, increasing the risk of ship collisions with whales. This change in shipping routes is due to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, and experts are concerned about the impact on whale populations near South Africa's coast.Key Facts
- Ships are rerouting around South Africa since 2023 to avoid Middle East conflicts involving the US, Israel, Iran, and Houthi rebels.
- The number of commercial vessels passing the Cape of Good Hope nearly doubled from 44 to 89 between March-April 2023 and 2024.
- More ships in whale-rich areas increase the chances of collisions between vessels and whales.
- Whale collisions often happen deep offshore, causing whales to sink instead of washing ashore, making it hard to measure the true impact.
- Scientists used models to compare whale locations and shipping routes to identify collision risks.
- Suggested solutions include changing shipping routes and lowering ship speeds at certain times.
- More research and data collection are needed to understand and address the problem better.
- Researchers plan to survey whales from planes or boats but need financial and community support.
Read the Full Article
This is a fact-based summary from The Actual News. Click below to read the complete story directly from the original source.