Options for European Shark Plan Revealed

The Shark Alliance is welcoming the release of the European Commission’s consultation document for a Community Plan of Action (CPOA) for Sharks, which, at long last, addresses the plight of sharks and proposes a range of options for improvement. 

"After decades of neglect, with devastating consequences for Europe’s sharks, the Commission has at last come out of the gate with a solid blueprint for meaningful, corrective action," said Sonja Fordham, Policy Director for the Shark Alliance.  "Key elements still need work and vigilant champions, but for now, the document offers new hope for some of the world’s most beleaguered shark populations.  We urge stakeholders at all levels to engage in seizing this opportunity to safeguard Europe’s most depleted shark species and start a new era of responsible shark fishing."

The thorough and relatively robust consultation document proposes many elements promoted by the Shark Alliance, including catch limits in line with scientific advice, special attention to endangered species, measures to strengthen the ban on shark finning, means to regulate and reduce bycatch, and educational programs to promote awareness among fishermen and the public.