News

Berlin, September 2009 The worldwide increasing numbers of vessel-whale collisions are a cause of concern. For a long time it was believed that collisions between cetaceans and sailing vessels were an exception. However, the worlds first study dealing with this issue – conducted by MEER. e.V. – showed that such collisions are not irregular at all. The study, the results of which were initially presented to the International Whaling Commission (IWC) in June 2009 and subsequently will be published in the IWC’s scientific journal, combined in-depth internet research with an international internet survey, where sailors could report and describe their... Continue Reading

  Online survey on vessel whale collisions Berlin, Juli/August 2008 MEER has been investigating the impact of sailing vessel and regattas on cetaceans (=whales and dolphins). For this purpose, we are collecting reports of collisions and near miss events between sailing vessels and marine mammals. This study also relates to the work of the Ship Strike Working Group (SSWG) of the International Whaling Commission (IWC). The SSWG is currently developing a global data base, where collision cases with all types of vessels are collated. Any information on collisions of sailing vessels with cetacean shall finally – with the permission of... Continue Reading

Berlin, January 2008. In January 1998 the founders of the project MEER La Gomera met on the small Canary Island to lay a foundation stone for cetacean research and conservation: They founded MEER e.V.. What started from the enthusiasm of a few people on the basis of a pioneer study on La Gomera’s cetaceans, after ten years has become an internationally reknown best practice example for ecological whale watching. We are happy to announce the 10th anniversary of MEER in 2008. May our work – always inspired by the extraordinary presence of whales and dolphins off the most beautiful island... Continue Reading

Many dolphins and whales are threatened by extinction. As a consequence of overfishing, pollution and habitat degradation they are losing the basis of their existence. Hundreds of thousands die every year as bycatch in nets and other fishing gear and many are still hunted for food. Climate change, increasing ocean noise, unrestricted whale watching tourism and collisions with vessels contribute to the threat. The waters off the Canary Island La Gomera are home to an extraordinary cetacean species diversity. More than 20 species have been documented. With it’s prizewinning project M.E.E.R. La Gomera, the non-profit association M.E.E.R. wants to guarantee... Continue Reading