Ocean IA: Revolutionizing Whale Conservation with AI in Polynesia

Ocean IA: A Groundbreaking Approach to Whale Conservation in Polynesia

Every year, humpback whales migrate from the icy waters of Antarctica to the warm, sheltered lagoons of French Polynesia for reproduction. However, this idyllic setting is marred by the high risk of collisions with ships, particularly in the busy ferry routes between Tahiti and Moorea. Enter Ocean IA, a cutting-edge project that leverages artificial intelligence to protect these magnificent creatures.

The Challenge: Maritime Traffic and Whale Conservation

The waters between Tahiti and Moorea are a crucial breeding ground for humpback whales, but they are also a major maritime thoroughfare. Over 90% of the Polynesian archipelago's traffic passes through these waters, creating a significant risk of collisions. Traditional methods of whale protection, such as human observers, are limited in their ability to provide real-time alerts and immediate action.

Ocean IA: A Dual-Faceted Solution

Ocean IA is a continuation of the Ocean Watch program, which began in 2024. This innovative project combines advanced technology with community engagement to create a robust whale protection system. Here’s how it works:

1. Real-Time Detection with AI-Powered Cameras

Intelligent land-based cameras, strategically placed on the heights of Tahiti and Moorea, monitor the passes of Papeete and Vaiare. These cameras use AI algorithms to detect the jumps, blows, fins, and tails of whales in real-time. The data is then transmitted to a central system, where it is processed and analyzed.

2. Collaboration with Maritime Stakeholders

Ocean IA involves active cooperation with shipowners and maritime services to develop and implement effective automatic alert protocols. Marine Mammal Observers (MMOs) remain on standby, and captains are involved in technical decisions, ensuring that alerts are received and acted upon promptly.

Public Education and Community Involvement

One of the unique aspects of Ocean IA is its focus on public education. The Whale Alert app, available to the public, turns every passenger and sailor into a potential observer. This community-driven approach not only enhances the project’s reach but also fosters a sense of responsibility and stewardship among the local population.

Institutional Support and Future Potential

Ocean IA enjoys strong institutional backing from the European Union (via the Best Life 2030 program) and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The project is currently in a pilot phase until November 2026, but its technological simplicity, local anchoring, and multi-stakeholder involvement lay the groundwork for a methodology that can be replicated in other sensitive marine areas.

Challenges and Uncertainties

Despite its promising start, Ocean IA faces several challenges. The project’s ability to scale, particularly through the installation of onboard sensors on ships, remains uncertain. Additionally, the sustainability of funding after the test period is a concern, although the project’s potential to reduce maritime collisions and protect marine life is significant.

The Bottom Line

Ocean IA represents a transformative approach to marine conservation, blending advanced technology with community engagement and institutional support. By providing real-time alerts and fostering a culture of responsibility, this project could set a new standard for whale protection and inspire similar initiatives around the world.