DPG is a comprehensive underwater photography website and community for underwater photographers. Learn underwater photography techniques for popular digital cameras and specialized professional underwater equipment (wide angle, macro, super macro, lighting and work flow). Read latest news, explore travel destinations for underwater photography. Galleries of professional and amateur underwater photography including wrecks, coral reefs, undersea creatures, fashion and surfing photography.
Dive Photo Guide

News

UK to Ban Import and Export of Shark Fins
By Ian Bongso-Seldrup, August 16, 2021 @ 09:00 AM (EST)


International Ocean Minister Lord Goldsmith says that the UK “will go further than any other country to stop the cruel practice of shark finning” as new legislation is announced that will ban the import and export of shark fins and products containing them. While shark finning is already banned in UK waters, trade has been allowed under EU law—mainly for shark fin soup.

“Shark finning is indescribably cruel and causes thousands of shark to die terrible deaths. It is also unforgivably wasteful,” said Lord Goldsmith. “Our action will not only help boost shark numbers, it will send a clear message that we do not support an industry that is forcing many species to the brink of extinction.”

Of the world’s 500 or so shark species, some 143 are listed as “vulnerable” to “critically endangered” under the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Demand for shark fin and overfishing are major drivers, with sharks such as the short fin mako and blue shark declining rapidly due to unsustainable fishing practices.

The UK is using Brexit to make improvements in animal welfare, with Environment Secretary George Eustice saying in May that “our departure from the EU has provided us with an opportunity to do things better.” The Government is also planning to ban the live export of animals for slaughter and fattening. In addition, the UK is leading a global campaign—supported by over 80 countries—for at least 30% of the world’s land and ocean to be protected by 2030.

Read more about the announcement in the press release.

RELATED ARTICLES

LATEST EQUIPMENT

Seacam Housing for Nikon Z9
Canon EOS R6 Mark II
Backscatter Mini Flash MF-2
Ikelite Housing for OM System OM-1
Nauticam NA-R7
Be the first to add a comment to this article.
You must be logged in to comment.
Support Our Sponsors
Newsletter
Travel with us

Featured Photographer



Follow Us

Sponsors