Conservation Group Sues 23 Tour Operators Over Marine Species Decline

A leading conservation group has launched a legal challenge against 23 commercial operators in a bid to halt a worrying decline in marine life, including whales and sperm whales, off the west coast of Mauritius.

The non-governmental organisation (NGO) Eco-Sud filed an injunction request on August 27, which was made public on September 13, urging a judge to order the immediate suspension of “swim with” tours involving whales, sperm whales, and turtles.

The group plans to follow up with a civil liability lawsuit in the Supreme Court, holding the operators accountable for their alleged role in the decline of marine species.

The Case Against Commercial Tourism

Eco-Sud asserts that the alarming decrease in marine animal populations is directly linked to the rise of commercial swimming tours.

The NGO’s investigations have revealed a lucrative industry, promoted heavily on social media, that draws thousands of international tourists who want to swim with whales and sperm whales.

According to a study by the Marine Megafauna Conservation Organisation (MMCO), the resident sperm whale population plummeted from an estimated 30 individuals before 2022 to just 25 by the end of 2024.

The study also documented multiple collisions with boats and a rise in stranded whale carcasses in recent years.

Threats to Marine Life

The NGO warned that the constant presence of boats and swimmers is disrupting the whales’ behaviour, including rest, reproduction, and nursing. This has been attributed to several factors:

• Collisions and Injuries: Whales are being seriously injured by collisions with boats and their propellers.
• Noise Pollution: The persistent noise from boats is disturbing the animals.
• Energy Depletion: Frequent disturbances increase their energy expenditure, reducing their lifespan and reproductive rates.

Urgent Action Required

Eco-Sud argues that while some operators claim their activities are respectful, they still involve frequent close contact and numerous boats, potentially violating existing marine protection laws.

The organisation acknowledged recent enforcement efforts by authorities but notes that the industry continues, albeit more discreetly, making it difficult to monitor, particularly on social media.

The group stressed the importance of enforcing existing laws and collective responsibility in protecting the environment.

Source: l’Express