finning

Shark finning is the practice of harvesting a shark's fins, often followed by releasing the shark back into the ocean, where it dies. This practice became a global issue in the early 21st century due to demand for shark fin soup and its symbolic status. Campaigns by NGOs raised awareness about the cruelty of finning and highlighted how commercial fishing contributes to the decline of shark populations worldwide.1

Many shark species are apex predators, crucial for the health of marine ecosystems. Their decline impacts the overall health of their habitats. By the early 2020s, many shark species had suffered significant population losses, though conservation efforts are showing some cautious improvement.1

While demand for shark fins has decreased in some regions, sharks are still caught as bycatch in commercial fishing operations, meaning they are unintentionally captured in nets or on longlines intended for other fish. This bycatch is a major factor in the decline of shark populations. Efforts to conserve sharks include creating marine protected areas and implementing regulations on fishing practices.12