Dear Danish Ambassador/Consul General/Relevant Official,


I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the recent arrest of Captain Paul Watson, a renowned Canadian-American environmentalist, who was detained upon his arrival in Nuuk aboard the vessel John Paul DeJoria. As a co-founder of Greenpeace and founder of the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society, Captain Watson has dedicated his life to the protection of our oceans and marine wildlife.

We implore the Danish government to release Captain Watson and not entertain this politically-motivated request from Japan. His arrest under an international warrant issued by Japan is a direct attack on the global environmental movement and the efforts to protect our marine ecosystems from destructive practices.

The recent launch of the Kangei Maru, Japan’s first new whaling ship in over seven decades, has raised significant concerns due to its size and capacity. With a range of 13,000 kilometers and the ability to process up to 600 tons of whale meat, this vessel has prompted fears that Japan may resume whaling activities far from its shores, despite previous assurances. The potential resumption of large-scale whaling poses a severe threat to marine life and the balance of our planetary ecosystem.

Whaling at such a scale is particularly threatening at an international level. Antarctica, for instance, is already under threat from unsustainable fishing practices, which disrupt the fragile food chain. Overfishing removes vital species like krill, which are essential to the diet of many marine animals. The new vessel’s extensive range fuels suspicion that Japan is preparing to slaughter whales far from its own shores, undermining global conservation efforts.

According to a 2019 study by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), a large whale is estimated to be worth two million dollars due to the immense economic value of the ecosystem services they provide. Whales play a crucial role in carbon storage and the stimulation of phytoplankton growth through their iron- and nitrogen-rich excrement. This process significantly contributes to the carbon capture ability of phytoplankton, which store 40% of the carbon produced on our planet—equivalent to the carbon capture of 1.7 trillion trees.

Captain Paul Watson is a hero, taking action where our systems and governments have failed to protect our oceans and environment for our children and future generations. His efforts are vital in maintaining the health of our marine ecosystems and combating the devastating effects of climate change.

I urge the Danish government to consider the broader implications of this arrest and to act in the interest of environmental preservation and justice. The release of Captain Watson is crucial for continuing the fight against illegal and unsustainable whaling practices and ensuring the protection of our planet's precious marine life.

Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter.