Zero Capture of Narwhals in East Greenland: A Call for Future Sustainability
In a significant move to safeguard narwhal populations in East Greenland, NAMMCO (the North Atlantic Marine Mammal Commission) has recommended a complete halt to their capture. This proposal, backed by an extensive scientific foundation, aims to ensure the survival of these unique creatures for generations to come, as highlighted by Fernando Ugarte, head of department at the Greenland Institute of Nature.
Ugarte firmly supports the recommendation, countering claims by Siumut. The political party has publicly expressed doubts about the transparency and documentation supporting this advice. In response, Ugarte emphasizes that the evidence is robust and widely accessible, pointing to numerous reports available through NAMMCO, Naalakkersuisut, and the Greenland Institute of Nature, among others.
The scientific backing for the zero-capture advice largely draws upon data collected during censuses conducted in 2008, 2016, 2017, and 2022. Ugarte notes, “This includes the very information that Siumut is seeking.” Furthermore, he highlights the active involvement of local narwhal hunters from various settlements, including Tasiilaq and Ittoqqortoormiit, who played crucial roles in the planning of the most recent census. These community members participated as observers during the counts and engaged in discussions regarding the findings in subsequent meetings.
Addressing skepticism from Siumut, the party has claimed that NAMMCO’s assessments were derived from helicopter counts. Ugarte clarifies, “Narwhals—like other whales and walruses—are counted from Twin Otter aircraft, not helicopters.”
Siumut has also called for Greenland to utilize more established and internationally recognized methods in its research. In response to this assertion, Ugarte stresses that the results of narwhal counts in East Greenland have been published in respected international scientific journals and have undergone rigorous peer review. “This ensures a solid and internationally recognized scientific basis,” he affirms.
As the debate unfolds, the emphasis remains on ensuring the protection and sustainability of narwhal populations, a goal that resonates deeply within the communities that depend on these remarkable animals.