Today’s Solutions: September 23, 2025

Marine biologists and activists are increasingly calling for the end to dolphins and whales held in captivity, especially for entertainment purposes, as these environments do not give them the space, social connection, and mental stimulation their complex brains need to thrive. Captive sea creatures are a big business, slowing action on this issue, but a policy change from travel giant Expedia could expedite the end to captive dolphins and whales.

The travel company, which serves as a one stop shop for many vacation bookings, has announced that they will no longer sponsor activities or lodging options that feature captive dolphins and whales. The company publicized the change on Twitter, writing, “We recently adjusted our animal welfare policy. As a result, attractions and activities that involve performances by or interactions with dolphins and other cetaceans will no longer be available on our sites.”

Expedia’s policy is the latest in a shift away from unethical animal practices in the industry. Intrepid Travel discontinued elephant rides through their platform in 2014, and Virgin Holidays ended dolphin and whale demonstration bookings in 2019.

Katheryn Wise, from World Animal Protection, told the Guardian, “Travel companies play a huge role in driving captive dolphin entertainment and as one of the largest travel companies in the world we are delighted that Expedia Group is making a stand. It’s time for other travel giants … to do the right thing and follow suit.”

The company will give vendors 30 days to comply with the new regulations before removal from the site. It also clarifies that it will allow accredited seaside sanctuaries in which animals are in a “permanent seaside living environment” and do not allow interactions or performances.

Solutions News Source Print this article
More of Today's Solutions

AI tool speeds up stroke care across England, tripling recovery rates

BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM In a brilliant advancement for emergency care, every stroke centre in England is now equipped with a life-saving ...

Read More

New brain stimulation helmet could transform treatment for Parkinson’s and de...

BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Cutting-edge technology in the form of a humble helmet may soon change the way we treat neurological and ...

Read More

Millions to benefit from drugmaker Eli Lilly’s $35 cap on monthly insulin

Last Wednesday, drug producer Eli Lilly announced that the out-of-pocket cost of its insulin will be capped at $35 per month. According to experts, the ...

Read More

The surprising human-like intelligence of the humble bee

In the wonderful world of bumblebees, a stunning discovery calls into question the idea that intelligence is entirely determined by brain size. These tiny ...

Read More