as we were evaluated it is environmentally friendly since the whale sharks were being fed at a scheduled time so they go to that area at their will and then after 12 noon they go away mainly because it had been their routine. also you are not to touch nor ride them or you will be criminally charged, also you are not permitted to use sunblock near them. I did not see any abuse either. the boatmen stir the direction of the whale sharks by dropping the food in that direction to get a good shot with the visitor. :D