governance of sharks
Why are sharks ruled under fisheries management? It is clear now that these authorities have completely failed to protect shark populations. Mostly because they have a narrow focus on reaching “maximum yield”, meaning to always figure out how to take the most from the ocean. This has caused many fish populations to collapse. With sharks, this approach is disastrous. Sharks are predators and did not evolve to be hunted. They have a life history that more closely resembles mammals. Yet, the fight continues over quotas and “sustainable shark fishing”. As long as we think of sharks as nothing but a collection of parts that should be “harvested”, we will not be effective in protecting the animals.
When it comes to shark fins, we also see that RFMOs are ineffective and unwilling to do something truly impactful. While they have banned the act of finning, they have completely failed to regulate the fin trade. It is far more effective and enforceable to deal with this industry on another front - the export and trade of fins. Ideally, one day, the sale of fins will be banned in the countries that produce the demand. But until that happens, each region must do what it can to not support this devastating trade.
Shark and Ray protection Act
A new approach. Sharks should be managed as wildlife, just as we did with marine mammals and the Marine Mammal Act. (details coming soon)
The triple assault on sharks: Does it all come from Florida?
Different proposals are taking shape in the federal government under the guise of fisheries management and ocean safety. While they focus on different sectors, the outcome is all the same. Less protection for sharks, more fishing, and a reduction in shark numbers without scientific justification.
Stop the EU Trade of fins
The European Union still allows the trade of fins to continue. They are one of the biggest suppliers of fins to Asia. This campaign aims to end it.
Stop the decimation of White sharks in South Africa
A series of misguided government policies and shark attack mitigation efforts threaten the white sharks of South Africa. The blame has been conveniently attributed to another animal, orcas. But there is more to this story. As is usually the case, it is human actions that are the trigger for creating inbalance and harm to ecosystem.