Beyond science, the International Whale Count Day brought people together. By joining lookouts, biologists, and visitors, the project turned whale and dolphin observation into a shared experience of learning, curiosity, and care for the ocean.

Objectives

Connecting people and conservation through shared ocean experiences.

Through this initiative, Futurismo invited the community and travelers to take part in citizen science. The aim was to involve the public directly in conservation, educate about cetacean presence and behavior, strengthen pride in the Azores’ deep connection to the sea, and inspire new ocean ambassadors.

Impact

Hands-on participation that inspired learning and reinforced cultural ties to the sea.

Community participation: 40–50 tourists joined land-based counts, alongside lookouts and marine biologists.
Hands-on involvement: Participants used binoculars to spot cetaceans with expert guidance.
Education in action: Real-time explanations about species, behaviors, and conservation challenges.
Shared experience: Locals and visitors worked side by side, reinforcing the Azorean cultural connection to the sea.

Supported UN Global Goals

This initiative contributed to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals #4, #11, #14, and #17. By blending science with community participation, it strengthened education, empowered sustainable communities, protected marine ecosystems, and built partnerships that connected people and the ocean.