Investigating the sustainability, utilisation, consumption and conservation of sea mammals – A systematic review

Abstract

Almost 80 % of the oceans, especially the Arctic and Subarctic are primarily inhabited by marine mammals. Marine species depend mostly on sea ice for food, raising their young ones and safeguarding themselves from predators. Consumption of marine mammals has always been recommended as healthy, but the truth is that it can be detrimental for human health because of sea water pollution from trash and chemicals. This systematic review provides an in-depth examination of sea mammals, their complex relationship with humans, and their sustainability in the face of various threats such as overexploitation and climate change. Through analysis of various aspects regarding human-sea mammal interactions - including consumption, cultural and religious beliefs, use in traditional medicine, and negative impacts from, e.g. by-catch and overfishing - the significant pressures exerted on these species are highlighted in this systematic review. Despite conservation efforts, certain sea mammal populations continue to decline, necessitating more robust research and policy action. The need for further research into the sustainable utilisation of sea mammals, considering health, ecological, economic, ethical and cultural aspects, as well as the accumulation of pollutants in sea mammals, is underscored. Additionally, a comprehensive list of knowledge gaps and future research directions are provided to enhance our understanding and conservation of these unique marine creatures.

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