The Greek-owned shipping company, ARCADIA SHIPMANAGEMENT, has taken a proactive step in conservation. They have revamped their internal operations to reroute their ships, playing a vital role in safeguarding the endangered sperm whale population in the eastern Mediterranean.
IFAW, In partnership with OceanCare, Pelagos Cetacean Research Institute, and WWF Greece, reached out to ARCADIA SHIPMANAGEMENT to raise awareness of the plight of sperm whales off the west coast of Greece. Ship strikes are a significant threat to this small, endangered whale population, pushing them towards the brink of extinction.
“We are deeply committed to sustainable and responsible shipping practices. Our decision to reroute our vessels to avoid the Hellenic Trench area, reflects our dedication to preserving marine life and protecting the endangered sperm whale population,” said Captain Dimitrios Mattheou, CEO of ARCADIA SHIPMANAGEMENT. “We believe that even one whale lost to a ship strike is one too many. By taking this proactive step, we hope to set an example for the shipping industry and contribute to the global efforts in marine conservation”.
“By avoiding the habitat of the sperm whales, ARCADIA SHIPMANAGEMENT is making a significant difference for these endangered whales. Whales often die as a result of collisions and this sub-population is at-risk. Ship strikes are both a conservation and a welfare problem. Even one whale being hit is one too many. That is why the decision by ARCADIA SHIPMANAGEMENT is so important and we call on all companies navigating the Hellenic Trench to follow suit and avoid the area,” said Sharon Livermore, Director of Marine Conservation at IFAW, representing the NGO coalition.
Fewer than 200 endangered sperm whales from the eastern Mediterranean sub-population are primarily found in the Hellenic Trench. Scientific studies reveal that more than 50% of stranded whales in this region have died as a direct result of collisions with large ships. In addition, research suggests that for every whale that is fatally injured by a ship strike, up to 20 others may suffer similar fates without being detected.
ARCADIA SHIPMANAGEMENT joins several other international companies that have committed to voluntary action. Greece is one of the largest ship-owning nations in the world and the actions by ARCADIA demonstrate tangible support by a member of the Greek shipping industry to protect these local sperm whales.
ARCADIA is seriously interested and devoted to any environmental and social issues related to its business, as well as placing special concerns over the footprint which the fleet vessels are “leaving” on mother nature. To achieve all the above, ARCADIA is dedicated to developing strong relationships with all parties involved in international shipping, based upon mutual trust and reliability.
Changing ship routes to protect endangered species is crucial for several reasons. It helps reduce ship strikes, a leading cause of death for many marine species, by avoiding their critical habitats. This adjustment also preserves vital feeding, breeding, and migration areas.
Additionally, rerouting ships minimizes environmental damage from noise, oil spills, and pollutants, which can degrade sensitive habitats. Supporting these changes also boosts conservation efforts and raises public awareness.
Overall, adapting routes promotes sustainable maritime practices and helps prevent extinction risks for endangered species, ensuring their survival and the health of marine ecosystems.
