PACIFIC WHALE FOUNDATION
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Mission Statement
Pacific Whale Foundation's mission is to protect our oceans through science and advocacy and inspire environmental stewardship.
About This Cause
Pacific Whale Foundation: Protecting the Ocean, Inspiring Stewardship Founded in 1980 on the island of Maui, Pacific Whale Foundation (PWF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting the ocean and its inhabitants through science-based research, conservation initiatives, public education, and community engagement. With a mission to protect the ocean through science and advocacy while inspiring environmental stewardship, PWF has become a trusted voice for marine conservation, advancing sustainable practices and empowering people to care for the environment. Vision and Approach PWF’s vision is to be the people’s environmental organization for the global protection of whales, dolphins, and other marine animals in their natural habitats. While prioritizing these iconic species, the Foundation embraces an ecosystem-based approach to conservation, recognizing that safeguarding marine mammals requires addressing the interconnected threats to ocean health. These include climate change, vessel collisions, bycatch, unsustainable tourism, and marine plastic pollution. PWF is guided by a commitment to science, community engagement, and innovative solutions, ensuring that its efforts not only address immediate environmental challenges but also foster long-term sustainability. Conservation Programs PWF’s Conservation programs are designed to directly address critical environmental threats while engaging the community to protect Maui’s unique marine ecosystems. • Marine Debris Removal: Since 2015, PWF has conducted over 1,600 beach cleanups, removing more than 200,000 debris items from Maui’s shorelines. Recently, PWF has expanded its efforts to include underwater reef cleanups. These cleanups protect coral reefs, mitigate entanglement risks for marine life, and support sustainable recreational fishing practices. • Reef Cleanup Program: PWF's boat-based scuba divers remove fishing debris from Maui’s reefs, with a goal of preventing lead poisoning, entanglement, and habitat destruction. This program also collaborates with local fishers to redesign fishing gear and prevent further accumulation of marine debris. • Sustainable Tourism Advocacy: By promoting eco-friendly whale watching and tourism practices, PWF ensures that visitors to Maui can appreciate marine life without contributing to its decline. Their certification programs and education initiatives have become models for responsible tourism worldwide. • Marine Policy and Advocacy: PWF actively works with government agencies and stakeholders to advocate for stronger environmental protections, including speed limits to reduce vessel strikes, measures to prevent ghost gear pollution, and climate action to protect marine ecosystems. Research Programs The Research Department at PWF conducts groundbreaking studies on marine life, with findings that inform global conservation efforts. All research is rooted in ethical practices, ensuring that marine animals are observed in their natural behaviors without harm or disruption. • Marine Mammal Monitoring: PWF collects data on whale and dolphin populations, tracking movements, behaviors, and health. This information is vital for understanding the impacts of climate change, vessel traffic, and fisheries on these species. • Citizen Science Initiatives: By engaging the public in data collection, PWF ensures widespread participation in scientific research. Programs like the Marine Debris Tracker App empower individuals to report debris sightings, contributing valuable data for conservation planning. • Long-term Ecosystem Research: PWF studies coral reef health, fish populations, and other critical aspects of the marine environment to identify ecosystem-wide changes and advocate for necessary protections. • Whale Research Highlights: For over 40 years, PWF has studied humpback whales in Hawaiian waters, contributing to an unparalleled dataset that supports both local and global conservation strategies. Education Programs PWF’s Education programs inspire environmental stewardship through interactive, science-based learning experiences tailored to all age groups. These initiatives are rooted in a belief that informed communities are empowered to protect the natural world. • Marine Education Field Trips: PWF partners with Maui schools to provide hands-on learning experiences aboard research vessels and along Maui’s coastlines. These trips introduce students to marine ecosystems, fostering a lifelong appreciation for the ocean. • Eco-Adventures: Through whale watches and snorkeling tours, PWF combines eco-friendly tourism with marine education. Onboard naturalists educate participants about marine life, conservation challenges, and how individuals can make a difference. • Community Workshops and Events: PWF hosts workshops, beach cleanups, and environmental film screenings to engage Maui residents and visitors in marine conservation. • Educational Resources: PWF produces free educational materials, from digital curricula to conservation guides, ensuring that environmental education is accessible to a global audience. Outreach and Community Engagement PWF is deeply committed to fostering community involvement in marine conservation. By building strong partnerships and encouraging collective action, PWF ensures that its mission resonates across Maui and beyond. • Public Awareness Campaigns: With over 287,000 social media followers, PWF uses its platform to educate and mobilize audiences around ocean conservation. Awareness campaigns address topics such as marine debris, climate change, and responsible tourism. • Volunteer Opportunities: PWF engages more than 100 volunteers annually in activities like reef cleanups, data collection, and event support. These efforts empower individuals to contribute directly to environmental stewardship. • Collaborative Alliances: PWF works closely with organizations like the Division of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR), the Global Ghost Gear Initiative (GGGI), and local fishing communities to advance shared conservation goals. Impact and Vision for the Future Pacific Whale Foundation continues to protect the ocean and inspire action by blending scientific research, public education, and conservation programs. By fostering a culture of sustainability and encouraging community-driven solutions, PWF is building a future where marine ecosystems thrive, and every individual recognizes their role in ocean stewardship. Get Involved Join Pacific Whale Foundation in making a difference. Whether through donations, volunteering, or participating in eco-adventures, your support directly contributes to preserving Maui’s marine ecosystems for generations to come. For more information, visit pacificwhale.org or contact the Foundation at (808) 249-8811.