EIA Ocean campaigner honoured with prestigious award for her work on whales and dolphins

A senior EIA Ocean campaigner has received the top award of the European Cetacean Society.

The ECS Mandy McMath Conservation Award was presented to Sarah Dolman as she was attending the Society’s 36th Annual Conference in the Azores, Portugal last week.

The award is presented each year for outstanding contribution in the field of marine mammal conservation.

Afterwards, Sarah said: “It was unexpected and very special to be nominated for and win the award.

“Mandy McMath was a very accomplished scientist, a strong advocate for women in science and a wonderful role model. I was lucky enough to work with her early in my career, including spending time with her on Bardsey Island in North Wales where we studied the local harbour porpoises and Risso’s dolphins, and this made receiving it very meaningful for me.

“All the achievements that have led to me receiving this award have been accomplished in collaboration with a wonderful collective of dedicated and passionate scientists and conservationists and I’m extremely proud to be the latest recipient!”

EIA Executive Director Mary Rice added:: “EIA UK warmly congratulates Senior Ocean Campaigner Sarah Dolman on receiving the ECS Mandy McMath Conservation Award.

“This well-deserved recognition is a testament to her dedication and the impact of her exceptional work in marine conservation.

“Her perseverance and commitment to safeguarding marine life reflects the very essence of EIA’s mission and we are immensely proud to see her recognised with this prestigious award. Congratulations, Sarah!”

Most recently, Sarah authored our report Catch of the Day on the damage done to populations of cetaceans – the collective term for whales, dolphins and porpoises – as a result of fishing bycatch.