Humans kill 100 million sharks every year for shark fin soup, as a byproduct of commercial fishing and to use their cartilage and meat in products. Sharks play a vital role in the ecosystem by indirectly maintaining the health of the coral reefs and removing the sick and weak species below them in the food chain. Due to long reproduction cycles and high infant mortality rates this species is unable to restore their numbers fast enough and are on the endangered species list. As humans we are responsible for these unwarranted killings and we are the only ones who can stop it. Here are some ways that we can start to do this.
BE A CONSCIOUS CONSUMER: Sharks are used in many products, so it is important to be aware of what ingredients to look for to avoid supporting this industry.
-Shark meat is often labeled as “rock salmon” or “pollock” do not eat this or shark fin soup.
– Squalene is shark liver and is a common ingredient found in makeup, deodorant, soap, and suntan lotion.
– Shagreen is shark skin leather and is used to make clothing, shoes, and handbags.
– Pet food can also contain shark meat, it is labeled as “fish meal” or “fish byproduct meal.”
– If you are taking a chondroitin supplement make sure it is not being sourced from shark cartilage.
BOYCOTT: Make it known to companies (in a peaceful way) who sell these products that you will not support them or purchase from them if they do not support the conservation of sharks.
SPREAD THE WORD: Unfortunately many people are unaware of the destruction humans are imposing on this species and many fear sharks, so they do not know the devastation the oceans face if sharks disappear. Knowing the facts and statistics on shark killings, how it is impacting our environment and ways that we can stop it is a powerful and effective way to spread the news to your community and local schools. If people are unaware of this destruction how can we make the necessary changes to end it?
ENCOURAGE AND SUPPORT LEGISLATION: Write your representative and let them know the importance of shark conservation to you and your community and that you want them to support any bills that ban shark fishing or that create conservation zones.
Sharks are one of Earth’s oldest lifeforms and by consuming consciously, educating others, and supporting legislation we can ensure that they are around for many more generations.