US Withdraws Proposed Ship Speed Rules to Protect Endangered Whales

The U.S. government has withdrawn a proposed rule to protect the critically endangered North Atlantic right whale, leaving fewer than 380 of them vulnerable to ship collisions.

The proposed rule aimed to expand slow-speed zones, apply speed limits to vessels as small as 35 feet, and enforce temporary restrictions when whales were spotted.

Scientists say reducing ship speeds to 10 knots could lower collision risks by 86%, but public and industry opposition stalled the rule.

Shipping companies and East Coast communities claimed the rule would harm local economies, reduce ferry services, and increase travel times.

Since the proposal was introduced, at least four right whales have died from vessel strikes, further highlighting the urgency for protection.

While existing 2008 regulations remain in effect, conservationists warn that they are insufficient to prevent the species' extinction.

Without swift action, experts fear the North Atlantic right whale may vanish entirely by 2035, leaving a critical ecological void.