The largest animals on Earth. They are incredibly beautiful and impressive. Not only that, cetaceans are much more than just beautiful and impressive. They are an essential link in keeping our oceans and seas healthy. Life in these waters is largely connected by these giants. For example, whales maintain the population of their main food source themselves, which can be described as very circular. Based on an article in The Guardian, De Correspondent has created a beautiful visual representation of this process, which we would like to highlight.
What makes whales special is that they act as fertilizers for plankton. Just like many land animals, their diet forms the basis for new life. “What they do is bring nutrients from the depths – including waters so dark that photosynthesis cannot occur – up to the zone where plants can live. By releasing their poop – sorry, defecation clouds – into the surface water, whales fertilize the plankton that krill and fish depend on.” A very important process for the health of all life in the water. Our plankton is cultivated in protected conditions because we want to leave the oceans undisturbed. And don't worry, our plankton doesn't live on whale poop ;)
Plankton, in turn, ensures that carbon is brought to the bottom, which can then be converted into new plankton when plankton is eaten by krill and fish. Research also showed that more whales lead to more plankton. The role of whales for a healthy marine ecosystem is therefore crucial. But how do we know how the whales are doing? This is why Stichting Rugvin (Rugvin Foundation) was established.
What is Stichting Rugvin?
Stichting Rugvin is the knowledge center for cetaceans and their habitats. They conduct research on cetaceans, organize excursions to increase awareness and the importance of cetaceans, and have written the children's book Whallie the Poo.
A Dutch organization that truly makes an impact.
As an algae company that believes in the power of healthy oceans, this is reason enough for us to support Stichting Rugvin. We want to do this not only with donations but in several creative ways. For example, by drawing more attention to this fantastic organization by selling the children's book Whallie the Poo. We also recorded a podcast with the founder Frank Zanderink and distributed 50 children's books to primary schools throughout the Netherlands. All proceeds from this book go to research on cetaceans and educating people about the importance of these magical creatures. This will indirectly lead to healthier oceans!
What can you do?
Inspired to also help the oceans? Great to hear! You can do several things:
- Check with Stichting Rugvin if you can volunteer!
- Buy the book Whallie the Poo for your children, nephew, brother, or yourself!
- Donate to Stichting Rugvin.
Feel the power of Algae 🌱
You can find the Correspondent article here.