Public awarenes and education

Cetacean Sanctuary Research

Public awarenes and education

Cetacean Sanctuary Research

The Cetacean Sanctuary Research project has always invested in public education and awareness through a variety of tools and approaches.

From the very start, researchers have also relied on citizen science for data collection at sea. Involving non-specialists not only helps support research costs, but also serves as a powerful tool for public education. Participants actively join fieldwork and receive training on marine research and conservation. To date, the project has hosted nearly 4,000 people from various countries.

Learn about our Citizen Science program

Tethys’ work through the CSR project has been featured in numerous Italian and international magazines and newspapers. The team has authored popular science articles and published books.

Researchers regularly give talks, lectures and organise workshops for the general public, for stakeholders in the Pelagos Sanctuary’s area and for schools, and also conduct seminars for university students.

Report a sighting

The public can report cetacean sightings and access educational resources through the website, www.cetaceifaiattenzione.it. Originally created for the Cetacei FAI attenzione (CFA) project, the platform was designed to raise awareness about marine conservation. Posters and leaflets promoting responsible boating can be downloaded.

Report a sighting

Public events

In Liguria, particularly around Sanremo—home port of the CSR research vessel—public outreach events are regularly organized. These include an art exhibition held in 2017, where international artists expressed concern over threats to marine mammals, and the annual “Run for the Whales” (half marathon, 10K, and family run), held since 2016. During these sporting events, conferences and meetings are organized, and educational materials are distributed.