Reducing the impact of shipping on Orca whales in the Pacific
Berge Bulk continues to participate in the Port of Vancouver’s ECHO (Enhancing Cetacean Habitat and Observation) programme. This voluntary initiative encourages vessels to reduce speed within key marine habitats — this mitigates the dual threats of ship strikes and underwater noise pollution, which can disrupt the echolocation and feeding patterns of endangered whales.
During peak migratory periods, our vessels traversing the Haro Strait and Swiftsure Bank adhere to a strict speed limit of 11 knots or less. Our captains coordinate directly with Vancouver Port Authorities to confirm participation — with compliance meticulously verified via Automatic Identification Systems (AIS). Through proactive participation in programmes like ECHO, Berge Bulk demonstrates its commitment to safeguarding the marine environment.
