Ban lethal shark culling programs in NSW, Australia

Recent signers:
Carine Breton and 19 others have signed recently.

The issue

Sharks are powerful predators, but they are also ancient, beautiful, and essential to healthy oceans. Culling programs in New South Wales, Australia kill indiscriminately, affecting not only the targeted shark species but also endangered sharks and other marine life, destabilizing entire ecosystems. It's important to remember that the ocean is the sharks' home first, and humans accept the inherent risks when they enter it.

The practice of shark culling is inhumane and increasingly unnecessary given the advancements in technology and our understanding of marine life. There are proven, non-lethal methods that not only offer better protection for people but also preserve the rich biodiversity of our oceans. These methods include shark barriers, drone surveillance, tagging and tracking sharks to alert swimmers, and public education campaigns to create awareness about safer swimming practices.

Current statistics indicate that the risk of shark attacks is extremely low compared to other ocean-related risks. According to the Taronga Conservation Society, in 2022, there were only 17 unprovoked shark interactions recorded in all of Australia. This figure highlights the fact that lethal measures are disproportionate to the actual risk posed by sharks to humans. Moreover, Australia consistently ranks among the top nations for marine biodiversity—with over 170 species of sharks and rays alone.

By continuing with lethal shark culling programs, we are not only contributing to the decline of these crucial marine species but also failing to adapt to more humane and effective means of ensuring public safety. It's time for the authorities in NSW to take bold steps towards sustainable and ethically sound solutions.

Join us in urging the government of New South Wales to ban lethal shark culling and adopt non-lethal shark mitigation measures. Together, we can protect both human lives and marine biodiversity, fostering a healthier coexistence with sharks in their natural habitat. Please sign this petition to demand change and prioritize a future where our oceans thrive.

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Recent signers:
Carine Breton and 19 others have signed recently.

The issue

Sharks are powerful predators, but they are also ancient, beautiful, and essential to healthy oceans. Culling programs in New South Wales, Australia kill indiscriminately, affecting not only the targeted shark species but also endangered sharks and other marine life, destabilizing entire ecosystems. It's important to remember that the ocean is the sharks' home first, and humans accept the inherent risks when they enter it.

The practice of shark culling is inhumane and increasingly unnecessary given the advancements in technology and our understanding of marine life. There are proven, non-lethal methods that not only offer better protection for people but also preserve the rich biodiversity of our oceans. These methods include shark barriers, drone surveillance, tagging and tracking sharks to alert swimmers, and public education campaigns to create awareness about safer swimming practices.

Current statistics indicate that the risk of shark attacks is extremely low compared to other ocean-related risks. According to the Taronga Conservation Society, in 2022, there were only 17 unprovoked shark interactions recorded in all of Australia. This figure highlights the fact that lethal measures are disproportionate to the actual risk posed by sharks to humans. Moreover, Australia consistently ranks among the top nations for marine biodiversity—with over 170 species of sharks and rays alone.

By continuing with lethal shark culling programs, we are not only contributing to the decline of these crucial marine species but also failing to adapt to more humane and effective means of ensuring public safety. It's time for the authorities in NSW to take bold steps towards sustainable and ethically sound solutions.

Join us in urging the government of New South Wales to ban lethal shark culling and adopt non-lethal shark mitigation measures. Together, we can protect both human lives and marine biodiversity, fostering a healthier coexistence with sharks in their natural habitat. Please sign this petition to demand change and prioritize a future where our oceans thrive.
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