Stop Finning European Union Initiative Kick Off at BOOT Düsseldorf

The initiative to stop the fin trade in EU countries was officially kicked off during BOOT Düsseldorf, Jan 18/19, 2020. Shark Allies Executive Director Stefanie Brendl was invited to speak about the past successes we have had in US States and Pacific Island Nations with legislative measures that banned the sale and trade of shark fins. During several press conferences and stage presentations, Stefanie, accompanied by German actor, film maker and environmental activist, Hannes Jaenicke, made the case for why it is high time for the EU to take steps to protect sharks and end the trade of fins.

The EU is one of the biggest contributors to the fin market and many of the major airports and ports are trading points for countries that have very little protection in place. Spain alone catches more than 1 million blue shark per year. 

The #stopfinningEU initiative is a led by a committee of EU citizens and partner organizations. Follow this campaign in the coming months to see how you can get involved.