MEER e.V. at the 2026 ECS Conference in Dundee

Scientific Exchange, Ethical Perspectives, and Strong Partnerships

From April 20 to 24, 2026, the 37th Annual Conference of the European Cetacean Society (ECS) took place in Dundee, Scotland. M.E.E.R. was once again actively represented this year: Our active member Lisa Leschinski and our first chair Volker Smit attended the conference and actively contributed to the international expert discussion, particularly during the second eDNA workshop.

For decades, the ECS has been one of the most important platforms for whale research, marine conservation, and interdisciplinary exchange in Europe. Under this year’s theme, “Basics to Benefits,” the focus was particularly on the intersections between research, ethics, and social responsibility.

In addition to the workshops, the conference offered numerous opportunities for exchange and networking:

• Presentations on current research projects from across Europe and around the world
• Discussions on monitoring methods, citizen science, and protected areas
• Conversations with partner organizations, universities, and NGOs
• New contacts for future joint initiatives

M.E.E.R. was able not only to strengthen existing collaborations but also to gain new perspectives for the further development of our work on La Gomera.

During a workshop on “Ship-Whale Collisions,” Fabian Ritter, scientific director at M.E.E.R., and Noel Covian, a whale-watching captain with our partner OCEANO Gomera, shared their expertise with international experts by highlighting the situation in the Canary Islands and the perspectives of seafarers.

Looking Ahead

Participating in the 2026 ECS Conference once again demonstrates how important international dialogue is for the protection of dolphins and whales. Science, ethics, and social engagement are inextricably linked—and M.E.E.R. will continue to play an active role in connecting these areas in the future.

We thank all our partners, contributors, and supporters for the inspiring discussions and are already looking forward to ECS 2027, which will take place in Piran, Slovenia.