It is not known to what ability Chinese White Dolphin (CWD) can detect chemicals within its environment. At best, cetaceans will be able to detect chemicals that float on the water surface that have a high viscosity (sludge like) but may not be able to detect more volatile fractions such as petrol / aviation fuel. As such, an emergency spill plan must be provided for keeping CWD away from the affected area.
Observation from high platforms will be conducted to determine the extent of the spill as well as the presence of CWDs in the vicinity of the spill. The weather forecast for the area will be used to determine the likely direction of movement of the surface spill.
The course of action will be related to such factors as the extent of the spill, the proximity of cetaceans to it and the likelihood of contact, e.g., enclosing the spill area or enclosing important habitats.
The use of absorbent booms is an effective containment method and can also act as a barrier to dolphins. This shall prevent the spread of spill and to minimize the potential for CWDs to be in contact with the spill. Deployment of such together with observers is appropriate for small and controllable spills, which can be clean up in the short term.