The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has taken significant steps to enhance the conservation of marine life, particularly cetaceans (whales and dolphins), through a collaborative approach with key stakeholders.
A training programme has, therefore, been organised by the Authority for reps of various institutions to effectively address the issue of stranded or beached cetaceans and improve environmental awareness and response.
Participants were from the Ghana National Canoe Fishermen Council, Ghana Marine Police, Fisheries Commission, Meridian Port Services, and local authorities from coastal municipalities in the Greater Accra Region.
A release issued to the Ghana News Agency on Tuesday, in Accra, said the training focused on several crucial areas, including handling and safe disposal of stranded or beached cetaceans.
That was important because when cetaceans were washed up on beaches, they often posed significant health and environmental risks, requiring expert handling and proper disposal methods.
The release said single-use plastics were a major threat to marine life, and educating stakeholders about proper waste disposal and reducing plastic waste was essential for preventing further harm to the marine ecosystem.
“The training also provided participants with the knowledge to assist in the event of stranded or injured cetaceans. This will ensure a quick and effective response, potentially saving the lives of these animals,” it said.
With about 18 species of cetaceans found in Ghana’s marine and coastal waters, the country had witnessed several instances of beaching or stranding.
“These events often lead to the death of these marine mammals, caused by both natural factors such as disease, and human-induced threats.”
“Among these human induced threats that could lead to strandings, or fatalities include targeted slaughter by fishermen, entanglement in active or abandoned fishing nets, ingestion of toxic materials such as red algae and plastics, exposure to pollutants in the water such as oil, chemicals, ship strike and seismic noise,” the release said.
It noted that the EPA’s training and awareness efforts were aligned with the celebration of the World Whale Day on February 16, a global event aimed at recognising the importance of those aquatic mammals in the marine environment.
It also served as a reminder of the many challenges faced by marine life due to human activities.
“By raising awareness and equipping stakeholders with the necessary skills, the EPA hopes to contribute to the protection and conservation of cetaceans and other marine life,” it said.
“This will ensure that future generations can continue to appreciate the importance of these magnificent creatures.”
GNA
