The Pacific Whale Foundation was founded in 1980 as a non-profit organization dedicated to preventing the extinction of whales.
They were among the first to adopt a non-invasive approach to marine research and promoted ocean conservation from a scientific point of view.
The primary mission of the Pacific Whale Foundation is to preserve whale populations by protecting their natural habitat.
This is done through advocacy and education, which has given rise to unique eco-tours and adventure cruises.
Through these cruises, nearly 3.5 million people have been educated about the importance of marine conservation while raising much-needed funds.
PWF incorporates other educational programs designed for school children.
These occur in their on-site Discovery Center and include field trips to the shoreline and ocean.
Teacher training programs are available to incorporate continuing education in the classroom to create a concern and appreciation for marine habitats, which will be life-long.
Adult education programs include specialized training for marine naturalists, conservationists, and those pursuing careers in nautical tourism.
This education aims to promote responsible use of the marine environment, which respects whale feeding and breeding habitats.
Numerous programs are also open to the general public, promoting good conservation practices and voting choices.
Conservation advocacy and practices promote campaigns on several issues that threaten the health of whale populations.
Although laws regarding whaling have become stricter, this practice still threatens the lives of whales.
However, an even more significant threat is pollution in marine habitats.
Shoreline debris, such as plastic, bottles, cans, and cigarette butts, get swept into the ocean through the tide, causing cuts and illness if ingested. In addition, cut fishing lines and nets cause damage to whales when they become entangled in them.
PWF is dedicated to educating the public about the danger of shoreline and ocean debris and organizing clean-up efforts.
PWF also sponsors programs to protect coral reefs, which provide a rich food source for whales, and teaches sustainable practices to reduce the impact of climate change.
The Pacific Whale Foundation’s headquarters is in Hawaii, but its research field extends to Australia and Ecuador to maintain the highest understanding of the global threat to marine habitats.
The research goal is public education and responsible management strategies to avoid depleting natural resources and pollution.
Short-term research projects manage specific issues critical to the health and survival of whales. In contrast, long-term research involves collecting climate data and its impact on the fishing industry.
PWF sees itself as a foundation “of the people.”
This provides an open forum for ideas, innovation, and volunteerism.
The organization has several blogs to promote conversation among those interested in their conservation efforts.
They also encourage advocacy through involvement in local politics.
Funding is provided through such programs as membership, the Adopt a Whale program, and the annual Whale Regatta.
The funds raised are used for continuing research and conservation efforts.
The past thirty years have seen many changes in the whale populations.
Great strides have been made to protect whales from being killed, and whale populations have recovered.
However, these gains have been offset by increased pollution, oil spills, irresponsible fishing practices, and climate change.
Organizations like Pacific Whale Foundation must continue the fight to maintain healthy habitats so whale populations can overcome these challenges.