The “breeding season” for Humpback whales began in June and lasts until November. Annually, at this time, there is a significant concentration of these large cetaceans on the coast of Espírito Santo. Some whales have already appeared near Imetame port project, located in Barra do Riacho, at Aracruz coast.

In harmony with the complex’s construction activities, Imetame Logística Porto’s socio-environmental practices are committed to protecting the marine life that inhabits and visits the regions close to the Port.

Always attentive and aware of this important period for the conservation of Humpback whales, the Onboard Observers (MMO), formed by Imetame Sustainability team in partnership with the Instituto Humpback Whale (IBJ), work on dredging the Port. This team keeps an eye on the horizon to signal the vessel captains (tugs) about the presence of these animals during the journey to the dredged sediment disposal area.

At this time, laws and regulations regarding conduct and good practices for navigation in harmony with marine megafauna are also intensified among the crews. If necessary, the vessel’s route is temporarily interrupted, or changed to maintain the appropriate distance.

Aiming to increase awareness of the importance and beauty of the species, when sighted, the crew is invited to contemplate the presence of the whales and their behavior (jumping, spraying, flapping their fins, among others).

This month, the project reached the milestone of 2000 dredging cycles, totaling more than 12,000 nautical miles navigated, which corresponds to more than half a trip around the world, without any negative interactions with cetaceans (whales and dolphins) or chelonians (turtles).