Description: The project aimed to assess the impact of maritime traffic on cetaceans and improve its management, achieving its objectives successfully. Firstly, the project evaluated cetacean exposure risks to maritime traffic in Reunion Island’s territorial waters, identifying potential risk zones and presenting detailed findings in a scientific report. Secondly, a working group was formed to enhance maritime traffic management, resulting in recommendations to reduce cetacean exposure risks, presented at an end-of-project workshop. Lastly, awareness materials including a poster and leaflet were produced and distributed, although planned conferences were canceled due to health restrictions. Stakeholders engaged included UMR ENTROPIE, Regional Operating Surveillance and Rescue Centres, Réunion Marine Nature Reserve, and participants in coastal traffic monitoring, with lessons learned highlighting the importance of participant mobilisation and adaptable implementation strategies. Overall, the project’s insights are expected to contribute significantly to cetacean conservation efforts in Reunion Island’s marine biodiversity.
Duration: 12 months
