Extreme E Legacy partner, the Organisation for Cetacean Conservation, continues to make progress
When Extreme E raced in Punta Del Este, Uruguay in 2022 at the Energy X Prix, the series partnered with the Organization for Cetacean Conservation (OCC) who exist to protect Uruguay’s vulnerable marine ecosystems and their inhabitants.
For over 25 years, this NGO has been carrying out marine conservation, whilst promoting responsible tourism and sustainable fishing. Another pillar of the OCC’s work involves equipping citizens to act as a voice for protecting marine mammals, which serves as a powerful tool in catalysing change in policy, governance and human behaviour.
Cetacean species such as whales, dolphins and porpoises play a crucial role alongside other species such as seals, in maintaining the biodiversity of ocean habitats. Such habitats in Uruguay are highly vulnerable and are under threat due to unsustainable fishing practices carried out by industrial and ‘pirate’ fishing fleets, and ever increasing levels of on-the-water tourism
Prior to racing, Extreme E drivers visited a colony of sea lions and fur seals on Isla de Lobos, where the largest reproductive colony in the southern hemisphere are situated. During the visit the teams also heard from local maritime experts and Extreme E’s Science Committee, on the importance of the ecosystems on a global scale.
The championships' support for the OCC, which protects upwards of 26 species of cetaceans, contributed towards improving their whale photo-ID catalogue and uploading it to open data platforms, which is a key resource in helping track and monitor whale data in Uruguayan waters.
Extreme E’s investment also assisted the organisation with its school education and immersive exhibitions, which equip participants to act as agents for the protection of precious underwater systems.
Speaking on the OCC’s efforts in the protection of species, and inspiring action through education, May Rovahz, Creative Project Coordinatorat the OCC says:
“For us, education means creating opportunities to experience a love for the ocean. This connection is crucial, as it inspires meaningful action and drives change to protect cetaceans and other marine life."
In the years since the series’ visit the OCC’s awareness initiatives have gone from strength to strength. The organisation received a grant from Mission Blue, a global coalition for the protection of oceans, to host sensorial dome exhibits for school children. The experience, which has reached 1870 children so far, takes participants to the heart of the Whale and Dolphin Sanctuary of Uruguay Hope Spot to drive education on its importance.
Most recently in August, the OCC celebrated the successful establishment of Isla de Lobos and surrounding waters as a National Park and protected area, a process five years in the making. The milestone achievement provides a vital refuge for species such as sea lions, birds, turtles and whales from activities such as trawling and urbanisation, to ensure that the delicate ecosystems remain in balance.
On the added impact Extreme E’s investment made on the OCC, May adds, "Partnering with Extreme E has been invaluable for our organisation. The financial support has further enabled our work, but even more powerful has been the ability to reach new and diverse audiences through the series’ sport and entertainment platform."
The OCC’s continued efforts as agents for protection will ensure that breakthroughs, such as the establishment of Marine Protected Areas continue to expand, with over 17000 km² of ocean currently under proposal to receive protection.
