REPCET® is the first on-board computer system able to monitor whale positions thanks to a 10 years collaboration with shipping companies, environmental actors and engineers. Its aim is to limit the risk of ship strikes, one of the leading causes of accidental mortality of large cetaceans.
Ship strikes between ships and large cetaceans are accidents of great concern. In the North-Western Mediterranean Sea, 16 to 20% of whales found dead were involved in a ship strikes. Limiting risks implies to raise awareness, gain a better understanding of the problem and develop technological solutions.
The REPCET® software has been designed to preserve cetacean populations and ensure passengers’ safety on board. The REPCET® system allows reporting, sharing and receiving in real time the sighted cetacean positions within a network of subscribers. Today, 39 vessels are equipped with the system and actively participate in the smooth running of the network. Five institutions are also equipped with the shore interface.
A 2 hours training is provided to bring knowledge to the crew members about collisions and cetacean identification.