Why does a whale biologist come to Davos? Because the decision-makers shaping global trade, technology, and policy are all in one place—and the solutions already exist. At Davos 2026, Hub Culture’s Edie Lush speaks with Professor Douglas McCauley, marine biologist and Director of the Benioff Ocean Science Laboratory at UC Santa Barbara, about an invisible cost of globalization: the growing collision between global shipping and the world’s great whales. As 90% of global goods move by sea, ships have become the modern-day harpoon—posing one of the biggest threats to whale populations worldwide. McCauley explains how new data has revealed critical “hot spots” where shipping lanes and whale habitats overlap, and why fewer than 7% of these areas are currently protected. The conversation explores how AI-powered hydrophones, satellite forecasting, thermal imaging, and human observation are being combined into a real-time risk system—allowing ships to slow down only when and where whales are present. From policy action at the International Maritime Organization to the role of shipping companies, brands, and governments, this is a powerful example of how technology, regulation, and leadership can align to protect biodiversity at scale.