On Nov. 13, Dominica announced its commitment to establish a sperm whale reserve off the western coast of the island. A first of its kind in the world, the new reserve will generate tourism income, cut off carbon and protect this whale species from increased human activity. Almost 500 miles of ocean has been devoted to the protection of sperm whales.

Dominica is one of only a few countries in the world where sperm whales can consistently be seen throughout the year. With the largest brains on earth, sperm whales are a complex species, with their own language and matrilineal societies. Dominica offers a unique habitat for resident sperm whales to find food and shelter. As such, the west coast of Dominica is a critical feeding and nursing ground, requiring protection.

© Manu Felix

“Dominica has the opportunity to show the world how to reconcile marine conservation with responsible use of the sea. A well-designed and regulated whale tourism operation can bring in economic revenue to offset the direct costs of managing and enforcing the reserve – and bring additional benefits to Dominica’s people,” said Kristin Rechberger, CEO, Dynamic Planet, which advised Dominica on the economic aspects of the new marine reserve. “With a proper conservation business plan, protecting nature is achievable by all countries, large and small.”

The reserve covers less than 3 percent of Dominica’s waters but offers enough protection for the whales. The reserve restricts ships, requiring all ships to only use designated corridors to reduce strikes and noise. The corridors also ensure fishing gear is less likely to break, in turn protecting whales from entanglement.

© Manu Felix

“Protecting these whales offers an incredible, cost-effective climate solution that has been overlooked by policymakers,” said Enric Sala, founder, Pristine Seas, and an Explorer in Residence, National Geographic. “By protecting sperm whales, Dominica is bolstering its climate resilience. The more sperm whales in Dominica’s waters, the more carbon sequestered in the deep sea, thus helping to mitigate global warming.” Sala has been advising the government of Dominica on the establishment of the reserve.

The recent marine reserve follows behind some other new protected regions designated around the world, including the recent Whale Heritage Area in Santa Barbara, California.