Green Options

The International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Shark Specialist Group (SSG), found that one third of sharks are at risk for extinction.  The group analyzed 64 known species of open ocean (pelagic) sharks and rays and found that globally, 32 percent or 20 species, are considered Threatened, which includes Critically Endangered, Endangered or Vulnerable.  The threat is even higher, 52 percent, for the 21 species regularly caught in high seas fisheries.

Sabah, a large Malaysian state, is considering banning the practice of shark finning after scuba divers threatened to boycott the country.

The Semporna Tourism Action Council proposed the ban because they believe sharks are largely responsible for the area’s booming touring industry. The council includes members of the Sabah Fisheries Department, Sabah Tourism Board, and even a representative of the World Wildlife Fund.