The Captain Paul Watson Foundation Australia is dedicated to protecting oceanic ecosystems and marine life through direct action, conservation, and education.
The foundation also collaborates with governments, researchers, and NGOs to support initiatives such as coral restoration, tackling disease-spreading salmon farms, and protect endangered species. We will undertake educational initiatives, such as beach cleanups, school programs, and media campaigns, foster public awareness and inspire community engagement.
CPWFA combines hands-on interventions with advocacy to safeguard marine ecosystems and promote sustainable conservation.
The Captain Paul Watson Foundation, Australia is committed to intervening against the illegal exploitation of oceanic ecosystems and marine species. To further this objective, we undertake specific activities aimed at combating illegal fishing, protecting marine habitats and coral reefs, and addressing the poaching and unlawful killing of marine animals whilst advocating for stronger conservation laws.
We will actively engage in patrolling for poachers and removing illegal fishing gear to combat the illegal exploitation of oceanic ecosystems and marine species. Our patrols are conducted in partnership but not run by local governments, environmental agencies, and law enforcement bodies. These operations involve monitoring waters, identifying suspicious vessels, and collaborating with authorities to intercept poachers and confiscate illegal nets. We utilise specialised equipment to safely retrieve abandoned nets, thereby preventing further harm to marine species and contributing to the restoration of marine ecosystems.
Through these efforts, we aim to achieve our objective of intervening against illegal activities that threaten oceanic ecosystems and marine life. By removing harmful gear and protecting entangled wildlife, we not only safeguard animals and their habitats but also promote sustainable conservation practices that support both existing and endangered populations.
Captain Paul Watson Foundation, Australia may conduct reconnaissance missions to gather photographic documentation and information on vessels engaged in illegal activities, particularly illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing targeting sharks and dolphins. We mayl collect evidence in the form of photos, videos, and testimonies, which will be shared with international media to apply pressure on governments and organisations to end these harmful practices and enforce stricter animal welfare laws.
These investigative efforts are aimed at intervening against the illegal exploitation of oceanic ecosystems and marine species by exposing and deterring such illegal practices. Additionally, we may conduct research activities and publish educational materials to support the protection of the natural environment through the documentation and dissemination of evidence.
We support research initiatives to tackle critical issues such as disease-spreading salmon farms and coral reef degradation. We may collaborate with biologists and researchers, we investigate Piscine Orthoreovirus (PRV) and implement coral restoration and plastic management systems in key areas, including the Coral Sea, Great Barrier Reef, Pacific Ocean, Indian Ocean, Tasman Sea, and Southern Ocean. Our efforts in coral reef protection focus on preventing unauthorised fishing vessels from damaging marine life, dredging coral, and destroying vital marine habitats.
Through these activities, we aim to protect and enhance the natural environment, including oceans around Australia and globally. We are committed to safeguarding marine life habitats and promoting sustainable conservation practices that support both existing and endangered populations. Furthermore, we conduct research activities and publish educational materials to bolster the protection of the natural environment.
CPWFA organises and participates in events such as VegFests, boat shows, and educational talks to raise awareness about marine conservation and promote our mission. Utilise social media outreach to inform and inspire the public to take action for marine conservation.
These efforts contribute to our goal of educating the general public on protecting the oceans, preserving natural environments, and supporting marine ecosystems. Additionally, we aim to create an international anti-poaching organisation to uphold international conservation laws, regulations, and treaties, fostering a broader commitment to conservation.
We are not limited to the activities outlined above; we continually review and develop new strategies to intervene against the illegal exploitation of oceanic ecosystems and marine species, including illegal fishing, destruction of marine habitats and coral reefs, and the poaching and unlawful killing of marine animals. This ongoing commitment ensures that we remain effective and responsive to emerging threats, furthering our mission across all areas of focus.
These international locations are strategically selected based on their ecological significance and the prevalence of illegal activities that threaten marine wildlife. Our initiatives are tailored to address specific threats within these regions, furthering our objective of protecting oceanic ecosystems and marine species.
The activities undertaken by Captain Paul Watson Foundation, Australia to intervene against the illegal exploitation of oceanic ecosystems and marine species occur in various international locations known to be critical habitats for marine wildlife. These specific locations include:
The activities will be conducted by a combination of Captain Paul Watson Foundation, Australia’s staff, dedicated volunteers, and, in some cases, third-party collaborators. The staff and volunteers are often directly involved in hands-on conservation efforts, such as patrolling, monitoring, and conducting research. Third-party collaborators, including local governments, environmental agencies, biologists, and researchers, are engaged to provide specialised expertise and support in areas like scientific research, legal enforcement, and community outreach. This collaborative approach enhances the effectiveness of the organisation's interventions and ensures a comprehensive strategy for protecting marine ecosystems and species.
Intervention by Captain Paul Watson Foundation, Australia’s is characterised by , non-violent direct action aimed at disrupting and preventing illegal activities that exploit marine ecosystems and species. We also raise awareness and educate audience on illegal activity in order to minimise further damage to marine life, environments and ecosystems.
We mayl conduct surveys and patrols to protect sea turtles, their eggs, hatchlings, and nesting mothers from poaching. We will organise to remove plastic waste and relocate eggs to secure hatcheries for their safety. Drones equipped with thermal imaging will be used to monitor nesting activity, and data from turtle encounters will be shared with local and regional bodies to enhance protection measures.
These activities contribute to our objectives of intervening against the illegal exploitation of oceanic ecosystems and marine species by safeguarding sea turtles and their habitats. They also support the protection of animals and marine life habitats in their natural environment, aligning with our commitment to advocate for the safety and well-being of marine species that are threatened in their natural habitats.
We may consider engaging in direct action against whaling ships by docking ships in Australia. While this is not a current activity, and our partner organisations in the USA and UK are already performing similar actions, it remains an option for the future. If we choose to proceed, our activities will include:
These actions are aimed at intervening against the illegal exploitation of oceanic ecosystems and marine species by preventing illegal whaling activities and protecting vulnerable marine life. Additionally, we are committed to advocating for the safety and well-being of marine species.
We will undertake undercover investigations to document cruelty in dolphinariums and other marine parks. Our efforts aim to expose and prevent the captivity and exploitation of dolphins, highlighting the inhumane practices associated with "swim with dolphin" attractions. We will distribute documentary films and educational materials to raise awareness about these issues.
These activities are focused on intervening against the illegal exploitation of oceanic ecosystems and marine species by halting the exploitation and abuse of dolphins in captivity. Additionally, we are committed to educating the general public on the importance of protecting the oceans, preserving natural environments, and supporting marine ecosystems.
