How do whales influence ecosystem and carbon dynamics?

The great whales (baleen and sperm whales), through their massive size and wide distribution, influence ecosystem and carbon dynamics. Whales directly store carbon in their biomass and contribute to carbon export through sinking carcasses.

Are fin whales tracking offshore wind energy sites?

In summer 2023, the Wildlife and Offshore Wind team tagged fin whales—second only in size to the blue whale—to track their behavior around offshore wind energy sites under construction.

Do whales contribute to marine ecosystems?

We discuss the importance of whales to marine ecosystems and their role in the biological carbon pump (BCP), assess their potential to contribute to carbon storage and carbon sequestration, and consider how whale carbon services could play a role in climate-change mitigation strategies.

Will a fossil fuel economy save whales from whaling?

In the original Myth, the emergence of a fossil fuel economy saved the whales from whaling. In this revision, whaling will continue—at a small and sustainable scale, ideally—and the scientific insights it allows into the state of the marine environment will bring the predominance of fossil fuels to an end.

Are offshore wind projects killing whales?

All have connected offshore wind development with horrific images of dead whales washing up and decaying on beaches. At a recent New Jersey campaign rally, Trump vowed to scrap the country’s offshore wind projects on the first day of a new term if he is elected again in November, declaring that “they kill the whales.”

Will restoring whale populations increase carbon storage in the deep sea?

Restoring whale populations will enhance carbon storage in whale biomass and sequestration in the deep sea via whale falls, though the global impact will be relatively small.