Student Article

Shark finning is a cruel and destructive practice that is threatening the survival of sharks and the health of marine ecosystems.

What is shark finning?

Shark finning is a barbaric practice in which sharks are captured, their fins are cut off while they are still alive, and the rest of their bodies are thrown back into the ocean. This process condemns the sharks to a slow, agonizing death. The fins are used to make shark fin soup, a dish that has been served in China for over 1,000 years. What was once a rare delicacy is now seen as a symbol of wealth and social status, making it especially popular at weddings, banquets, and celebrations like Chinese New Year.

Why do people want shark fins?

Over the past two decades, the demand for shark fin soup has exploded. As the Chinese economy has grown, an increasing number of people can afford this luxurious soup, pushing the number of sharks killed each year to a staggering 73 million. This immense demand has led to the near extinction of many shark species, including the blacktip reef shark, which is now listed as "Near Threatened" on the IUCN Red List.

Why sharks matter

The practice of shark finning is harmful not only to sharks but also to the broader ocean ecosystem. Sharks are apex predators, meaning they sit at the top of the food chain and help regulate the populations of other marine species. Without sharks, these populations could explode uncontrollably, leading to ecological imbalance. The loss of sharks would affect everything from coral reefs to fish stocks, making the entire ocean ecosystem vulnerable.

What’s being done to help?

Despite growing international awareness and conservation efforts, including laws like the U.S. Shark Conservation Act and the European Union’s ban on finning, the trade in shark fins remains widespread. Several countries, including Hong Kong, have weak laws or no regulations at all regarding shark finning. Fortunately, some airlines and hotels have stopped serving shark fin soup, and countries like China have banned it at government functions. However, the fight is far from over. A new challenge has emerged as fishermen switch to catching shark meat, which has become more popular in some areas, further endangering shark populations.

To truly protect sharks and ocean ecosystems, global efforts need to continue, and consumers need to reject shark fin soup altogether. While laws are important, they are not enough on their own. Changing attitudes and reducing demand is key to ensuring a future for sharks in our oceans.

© Mark Carwardine / Our Media