Not a pretty site. International trade in wild plants and animals is estimated to be worth billions of dollars a year and in too many cases, threatens species survival. For sharks – which are sought for fins, meat, oil, teeth and cartilage – regulation is sorely lacking for almost all trade.
Project Aware is working to use the power of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) to help protect threatened sharks. It’s high time that threatened and highly traded sharks get the protection that many terrestrial animals have received from CITES.
You can help by signing the CITES shark petition. Already signed the petition? Do more. Send a personalized letter direct to CITES leaders. Your diver voice can help achieve the support needed for CITES success. Together, we’re reaching out and demonstrating solid arguments for change with unconvinced CITES delegates – including diving-based economic benefits of living sharks and eco-tourism.
For more details on the CITES petition and what you can do click here
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