The Shark Finning Ban in the EU
In January of 2020, an initiative for a shark finning ban in the European Union was started.
The ban would help stop the mutilation of sharks for their fins. In Europe, the shark fin trade is a problem, and millions of sharks are killed senselessly simply for their fins.
In 2013 the EU regulation was passed called “Fins Naturally Attached.” This regulation was created to help ensure that the fins were attached to the shark’s body while on the vessel and at the port.
Once the shark left the boat, the fins could be removed. This did not help solve the growing problem of fishing sharks just for their fins.
It is estimated that between 63 and 273 million sharks are fished and killed yearly. This number is probably low since criminals don’t report their acts, and others turn a blind eye.
Hunting sharks for fins is heartbreaking and cruel. Most of these sharks are caught and have their fins removed while alive.
Then they are thrown overboard where they bleed to death, suffocate, or are eaten alive.
Contrary to what some people might still believe, sharks don’t just grow their fins back. And all of this is done just so that someone out there can make shark fin soup.
Other parts of sharks are used in different ways, but the shark’s most valuable part is its fins.
How We Can Help
An estimated 3,500 tonnes of fins are exported from the EU every year. This is why we must stop this heinous crime!
If we don’t do something now, who knows what other sharks we will lose and what kind of effect it will have on the ecosystem.
Countries must accept and enforce the “Fins Naturally Attached” regulation to stop finning in Europe.
So, what can we all do to help? The shark finning ban petition ends on January 31, 2022. If your country is part of the union, you can sign the petition and share it with family and friends.
While the petition has reached its million signature goal, the more we add, the better. You can also donate to the cause and share the link.
We must help end shark finning and help educate people on this cruel and senseless fishing practice.
