Why does Project AWARE support sustainable shark fisheries?
Sharks are particularly vulnerable to overfishing because most grow slowly, mature late and only produce very few young. Indeed, very few shark fisheries are currently well managed and many have ended in the collapse of shark populations and associated industries. However, not all sharks are threatened and in some cases shark meat may be a primary source of nutrition. There is scope for a shared ocean resource, responsibly managed. Project AWARE works towards securing sustainable, science-based conservation policies. Our goal is shark fisheries policies, both nationally and internationally, that heed reputable scientific advice, take a precautionary approach to fishing limits, protect threatened species, implement recovery plans and enforce effective bans on the wasteful practice of finning.
