UK Shark Fin Ban Moves Closer to Becoming Law

 

Sharks are some of the most fascinating creatures on the planet, but they are also some of the most vulnerable. Overfishing, habitat destruction, and the demand for shark fins have led to a rapid decline in shark populations around the world. However, in the UK, a recent development is moving the country closer to a ban on shark finning.

 

Shark finning is the practice of removing a shark's fins and discarding the rest of the body at sea. The fins are then used to make shark fin soup, a delicacy in some parts of the world. Shark finning is a cruel and wasteful practice that has led to the decline of many shark species. It is estimated that up to 73 million sharks are killed each year for their fins.

 

In the UK, shark finning has been illegal since 2013. However, the country still allows the import and export of shark fins. This means that although shark finning is not taking place in the UK, the country is still contributing to the global demand for shark fins. This demand fuels the practice of shark finning in other parts of the world.

 

The UK government has been under pressure from campaigners to ban the import and export of shark fins. This would close the loophole that currently allows the trade of shark fins to continue. Campaigners argue that a ban would send a strong message to other countries and help to protect sharks around the world.

 

In October 2020, a consultation was launched by the UK government on the issue of shark finning. The consultation received over 800 responses, with the vast majority in favor of a ban on the import and export of shark fins. In response, the UK government announced in January 2021 that it would be introducing new legislation to ban the trade of shark fins.

 

The proposed ban would make it illegal to import or export shark fins in the UK. The ban would also include a requirement for shark fins to be removed from all products before they enter the UK. The legislation is expected to be introduced in 2021, with a view to it becoming law in 2022.

 

The UK is not the only country taking action to protect sharks. In recent years, other countries, including the US, Canada, and Australia, have introduced bans on the trade of shark fins. These bans have helped to reduce demand for shark fins and have contributed to the conservation of shark populations around the world.

 

The proposed ban on the import and export of shark fins in the UK is a positive step towards protecting sharks. It sends a strong message that the UK is committed to the conservation of shark populations and will not tolerate the cruel and wasteful practice of shark finning. It is hoped that other countries will follow suit and introduce similar bans, ultimately leading to a world where sharks are protected and thrive.