The MMOA has played a vital role in shaping marine mammal mitigation policies on a global scale by offering informed, collective feedback from experienced practitioners. Our contributions have been recognised by government agencies and NGOs around the world, influencing policy development, training standards, and industry best practices.
Key contributions include:
- Hosted world's first Marine Mammal Monitoring and Mitigation Conference in Scotland 2024.
- Issued bursaries to support mitigation professionals to further develop their career.
- Input to JNCC (UK) during guidance consultations and on data forms and mitigation guidance.
- Contributed to a South Africa Roundtable stakeholder event discussing best practice implementation of mitigation during marine industry activities.
- Consultation with National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS; Ireland) on marine mammal mitigation protocols.
- Advisory input to the Department of Conservation (DOC; New Zealand) on acoustic impact, MMO standards, and Code of Conduct revisions. We were formally acknowledged by the DOC for our expertise, coordination, and commitment to raising global standards for marine mammal observation and training
- Engagement with OceanWatch (Trinidad and Tobago) on mitigation protocols tailored to regional needs.
The Association was praised for their contribution to the Department of Conservation and we received this comment from Mr Tara Ross-Watt, Senior Technical Adviser, Department of Conservation, New Zealand
“The New Zealand government is currently reviewing guidance for minimising acoustic disturbance to marine mammals from seismic survey operations, and is soon to publish a new Code of Conduct. This process has relied heavily on expert stakeholders to develop the most robust yet practical regime possible based on international best practice. The Marine Mammal Observer Association made a significant contribution, facilitating efficient co-ordination of comments from its members which helped us develop relevant, comprehensive provisions for marine mammal observer standards, training, recording and reporting. Personally, I was impressed by the organisation's passion and commitment to raising professional standards across their sector, and by the quality of advice we received. I would like to express my gratitude for the valuable contribution that the MMOA has made to our review.”
Development of Position Statements
To support global consistency and elevate professional standards, the MMOA has developed a suite of Position Statements addressing key issues in marine mammal observation, passive acoustic monitoring (PAM), and mitigation of anthropogenic noise. These documents are designed to guide regulators, NGOs, and industry stakeholders, particularly in regions where formal standards are lacking.
They are freely available via our Position Statements page and are continuously under consultation to incorporate further expert feedback and ensure continued relevance.
Industry Collaboration
Ongoing dialogue with offshore energy stakeholders, environmental consultants, and technology developers has positioned the MMOA as a trusted contributor to industry conversations. We continue to build these relationships through direct meetings, technical workshops, and strategic input on emerging tools and guidelines.
Conference Participation & Representation
MMOA committee members have regularly represented the association at international conferences and symposia, raising awareness of mitigation science and promoting the role of MMOs and PAM operators in environmental protection. These include:
- Society for Marine Mammalogy (US, NZ, Canada)
- European Cetacean Society (multiple years and countries)
- International Association for Impact Assessment (IAIA)
- EAGE and All-Energy conferences
- World Marine Mammal Conference
- AECoW Conference, Glasgow, Scotland.
- IMarEST Conference, Online and in person
These engagements have expanded our global reach and helped embed MMOA values in international spheres.
Early Achievements
The early years involved a team of experienced personnel who were determined to form an Association to represent professional MMOs, PSOs, MFOs and PAM Operators and also to act as a point of contact for industry, regulators, project managers and anyone else who is interested in marine mammal mitigation during offshore operations. The volunteer team consists of marine mammal observers, passive acoustic monitoring operators, marine mammal biologists, researchers and naturalist guides, MMO and PAM trainers and personnel experienced in managing teams of MMOs and project management.
Initial funding was provided by the Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC) , which is the public body that advises the UK Government and devolved administrations on UK-wide and international nature conservation. This allowed the team to achieve the following:
- Establishment of a formal Executive Committee, constitution, mission statement, code of conduct and a functional interactive website for its members.
- Development of the MMO Community so that experienced mitigation professionals can exchange information, ask questions and voice their concerns regarding mitigation issues.
- Development of an Information Directory for Members to gain further knowledge of mitigation issues.
