The coordinator of ECoMAR, Rodrigo Tardin, participated as a speaker at a seminar on best practices in whale watching, presenting important information on the impacts of cetacean observation tourism.

During his presentation, entitled “Whale Watching in debate: global lessons and the case of Arraial do Cabo,” Tardin discussed how the growth of whale watching tourism can affect the behavior of animals.

Activities in Arraial do Cabo

Having worked in the region for around 15 years, Rodrigo cited Arraial do Cabo, in Rio de Janeiro, as a case study to demonstrate the challenges faced in regulating tourism. The region has become one of the country's main whale watching destinations, attracting thousands of visitors during the whale migration season.

The lecture addressed issues such as noise produced by boats, appropriate distances for observation, and the need for specific protocols for different species of cetaceans.

Ongoing research

The Marine Ecology and Conservation Laboratory (ECoMAR) conducts research on the behavior and conservation of marine mammals along the Brazilian coast. Studies include population monitoring, analysis of anthropogenic impacts, and the development of conservation strategies.

The researcher's participation in the seminar is part of efforts to transfer scientific knowledge to practical applications in the management and conservation of Brazilian marine resources.