Safer Whales,
Cleaner Air, and a
Quieter Ocean

Together, we’re reducing the environmental impact of shipping in areas where whales, coastal communities, and commerce intersect.

Photo: Adam Ernster

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What we do

Protecting Blue Whales and Blue Skies (BWBS) is a voluntary Vessel Speed Reduction (VSR) program incentivizing shipping participants to reduce ship strike risk to whales, underwater noise, emissions, and air pollution by voluntarily transiting at 10 knots or less. BWBS independently verifies cooperation rates and environmental benefits and incentivizes further adoption of responsible shipping practices that protect marine biodiversity and coastal air quality.

As Seen In

Creating Hope Along Our Coasts

Every day cargo ships transit along our coasts transporting goods we all rely on. By voluntarily reducing speeds to 10 knots or less in VSR zones, participating shipping lines help reduce the impact on our marine and coastal environment. Learn how.

Photo: Ralph Clevenger Wildlife

Tap or hover on the cards to learn more.

Reducing Ship Strikes

Ship strikes are a top threat to whales around the globe. Research shows that transiting at 10 knots or less significantly reduces the risk of fatal ship strikes.

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Reducing Air Pollution & GHGs

Ocean-going vessels can contribute a significant portion of smog-forming air pollution affecting coastal communities. Speed reduction measurably reduces these emissions.

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Reducing Underwater Noise

Many marine animals, including whales, rely on sound for essential life functions such as communication, navigation, and foraging.

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By The Numbers

A whale’s tail rises from the ocean near a large cargo ship, with mountains and clouds in the background.
%

In 2024, participating vessels reduced the risk of fatal ship strikes to endangered whales by approximately 50%.

Photo: Dustin Harris

A cargo ship carrying colorful shipping containers sails across a calm, open sea under a hazy sky.
MT

In 2024, participating vessels helped reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 49,000 metric tons.

Photo: Rinson Chory

The Latest

Read the latest news, reports, stories and see relevant resources created and gathered by our team.

Two stylized, curved blue shapes on a light blue background, resembling abstract waves or leaves.
News
News

When Ships Slow Down, Everybody Wins, Including Endangered Whales

August 05, 2025

A blue whale tail perfectly centered with a youtube link and the name Battle of the Blues as the title over it.
Story
Story

Adam Ernster and his "Battle of the Blues"

August 05, 2025

Two stylized, curved blue shapes on a light blue background, resembling abstract waves or leaves.
News
News

In a Deadly Year for Whales, CA Considers Statewide Program to Slow Ships

August 03, 2025

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