UK Government Plans to Ban Shark Fin Fishing

Earlier this week the UK government announced that they plan to ban the practice of shark fin fishing.

International ocean minister, Lord Goldsmith announced that as part of the new action plan for animal welfare, the UK will be banning the shark fin trade.

The UK has a long track record of its pursuits in ocean Conservation, and banning the cruel and inhumane practice of fishing and killing sharks for their fins was next on their list.

Lord Goldsmith said, “Shark finning is indescribably cruel and causes thousands of sharks to die horrible deaths. It is also unforgivably wasteful. The practice is rightly banned in UK waters, but the trade continues, with serious implications for the future of these magnificent creatures. That is why we are now banning the import of both detached shark fins and shark fin products. Our action will not only help boost shark numbers, it will send a clear message that we do not Support an industry that is forcing many species to the brink of extinction.”

Out of 500 species of sharks, 143 are classified as under threat of extinction. The shortfin mako shark and blue shark are both rapidly declining due to unethical fishing practices like shark fin fishing.

Banning detached shark fins from being brought into the UK will have a significant effect on the demand for shark fin products such as tinned shark fin soup. Plus, decrease in demand will hopefully bring the result of less shark fin fishing.

The UK is currently leading a global campaign in the hope of having 30% of the world’s land and ocean protected by 2030. 

Sign this petition to demand Ireland passes the bill amending the Wildlife Act that would give basking sharks additional protections!

Related Content:

• 7 Alarming Facts About the Shark Fin Trade
• 10 Amazing Videos of Ocean Conservationists Interacting with Sharks
• Win! House Passes Shark Fin Sales Elimination Act
• 26 Tonnes of Shark Fin Worth $1.1 Million Recovered in Hong Kong

For more Animal, Earth, Life, Vegan Food, Health, and Recipe content published daily. Subscribe to the One Green Planet Newsletter! Lastly, being publicly-funded gives us a greater chance to continue providing you with high-quality content. Please consider supporting us by donating!