The Environment Society of Oman has signed a two year sponsorship agreement with HSBC Bank Oman for its efforts to save the Arabian Sea humpback. ESO will implement two new projects as part of the partnership. The Conservation Management Plan aims at working with local authorities to find alternative solutions to harmful marine practice that could endanger the whales’ survival. The Capacity Building programme focuses on the development of the next generation cetacean (whales) researchers.
Maia Willson is the Research and Conservation Manager at ESO. She said, “Weve been researching Omans Whales for the past 20 years with the support of local and international collaborators. Although this work is still ongoing and we have enough scientific information for conservation actions to be informed, it is now possible to make decisions. As we enter 2022, our focus shifts to how we address the issues that threaten the survival and well-being of the Arabian Sea Humpback Whales. We are able to take concrete action thanks to the support of HSBC and help to implement policies that provide greater protection and prepare the next generation marine conservationists and researchers to continue this important work.
HSBC has a history of supporting the communities where it operates. Melika Betley CEO of HSBC Oman said that this conservation and capacity building program will be a valuable opportunity for marine researchers and activists to develop and support one of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
The Arabian Sea Humpback Whale is one of 20 species found in Omans waters. It was listed as endangered on IUCN’s Red List of Threatened Species in 2008. It is thought to be one the most vulnerable and small-sized whale populations in the world with less than 100 individuals. ESO supported research also proved that Oman’s humpback whales are the only known species of whale not to migrate between high- and low latitudes. Instead, they breed and eat in the waters around Oman.
They are believed to have lived in the Arabian Sea area for approximately 70,000 years. Photo-identification studies show that they are a distinct population. Acoustic studies reveal a distinctive song and there is no match outside the Arabian Sea region.
ESO was founded in 2004 with the goal of improving our knowledge of the ecology and distributions of the whales found in Oman’s waters. The Marine Mammal Atlas of Oman was published by the country’s only non profit organization dedicated to environmental preservation. This publication is the result of 20 years of scientific research.
ESO is a non-profit organization that relies on the generosity of members and sponsors to continue its work. You can find more information at eso.org.om about how you can support, make a contribution, or other ways to get involved.