The Blue World Institute of Marine Research and Conservation (BWI) is a Croatian non-profit and non-governmental organisation with its headquarters on the island of Lošinj. Our area of interest is the entire Adriatic region. In our work we strive for excellence in research, education and conservation programmes. Our primary concern is the sea and marine biodiversity, but our activities are also aimed at marine spatial planning, integrated coastal management, the human dimension in conservation and development of insular communities through environmentally sustainable activities based on the preservation of a healthy and rich ecosystem. The BWI and its staff have worked in marine conservation for the past two decades. Its members are representatives in many international forums, including the International Whaling Commission (IWC), the Agreement for the Conservation of Cetaceans of the Black Sea, Mediterranean Sea and Contiguous Atlantic Area (ACCOBAMS) and the Mediterranean Science Commission (CIESM). Through its work the Blue World Institute has gained a national and international reputation for high quality research, education and conservation achievements. The BWI is an independent non-profit organisation. Our employees are well educated and motivated people who contribute to the local economy and society. Our activities and projects are carried out thanks to the foresight of a number of environmentally-oriented companies and individuals. Since its creation, in 1999, the BWI has undertaken numerous successful projects. It now focuses on three main programmes: Science, Education and Conservation.