Humpback whale conservation has had a ripple effect, leading to greater efforts to protect other whale and dolphin species. As the humpback became a symbol of marine conservation, it brought global attention to the threats facing other cetaceans, including overfishing, habitat destruction, and pollution. The successful recovery of humpback populations has demonstrated the effectiveness of international cooperation and protective measures, inspiring similar actions for species like blue whales, fin whales, and various dolphin species. Whale-watching tourism, initially focused on humpbacks, has also expanded, fostering awareness and generating funds to support broader marine conservation efforts across species.

Over the years, conservation efforts have evolved, integrating various methods and tools. Photography, particularly through techniques like fluke (tail) identification, has played a vital role in humpback whale conservation. Each humpback has a unique pattern on its fluke and dorsal fin, allowing researchers and citizen scientists to track individual whales over time. This method, known as whale matching, has helped scientists monitor migration patterns, population sizes, and health. By engaging the public in photo identification through platforms like Happywhale, these efforts have raised awareness and generated valuable data for conservation. The detailed records gathered through whale matching have provided insights into threats like ship strikes and entanglement, further fueling conservation initiatives to protect humpbacks and their habitats.