It is estimated that around 100 million sharks are killed each year, primarily for their fins to make shark-fin soup. They are caught (often illegally) by long-lines, sport fishermen and for the barbaric practice of finning.
Hooked sharks are hauled onto boats and their fins are sliced off while they are still alive. These helpless animals are then thrown back into the ocean where, unable to swim without their fins, they sink to the bottom and drown in an horrific and agonizing death.
Shark populations have dropped by as much as 90% in recent years. They are being wiped out faster than they can reproduce. 1/3rd of all shark species are facing extinction, many within our life time. This is threatening the stability of marine ecosystems around the world. Sharks play a critical role in maintaining a delicate balance in these ecosystems, the health of the planet and ultimately the survival of mankind.
It has been found that shark fins, meat and by-products all contain high levels of mercury. This has been known to cause cardiovascular problems as well as being responsible for birth defects. Other toxins found include (but are not limited to) arsenic, cadmium, manganese and copper.
The Republic of Guam has banned the practice. Hawaii has banned the possession, sale and distribution of fins. California has banned the practice and sale. Malaysia and Toronto are in the process of banning. Disney World Hong Kong have taken it off the menu. The University of Hong Kong has banned fins on campus and Barack Obama has recently signed the Shark Protection Act. South Africa is one of the shark finning capitals of the world.

Tags: Cause, Culture, Facts, Fear, Global, Great White, Hong Kong, Media, Paul Watson, Sea Shepherd, Shark Attack, Shark Conservation Act, Shark-Fin Soup, Shark-Finning, Sharks, United Kingdom, United States, Video

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