5 Shark Conservation Organizations That You Should Know About
It's Shark Week this week and we're here for it. We took some time to look into how and why sharks are so important to the ocean and its ecosystem and in doing so, came across some great organizations focused on the conservation of sharks. So without further ado, let's look at what we can do to help the sharks.
Shark Research Institute Princeton
The Shark Research Institute of Princeton sponsors and conducts research on sharks as well as promote their conservation. They provide facts that oppose how sharks are portrayed by the media/TV shows/movies etc., working to change the narrative. They strive to put all tax-deductible money into shark conservation and protection. If you're interested in getting involved, you can donate, invest, buy a membership, or adopt a whale shark. To learn more, visit them online.
Predators in Peril spreads awareness for obscure shark species, in particular by taking pictures and videos of undocumented or overlooked sharks during expeditions. Instead of asking you for money, they encourage signing up for an expedition, where you are joined by scientific researchers. They aren't super expensive and you get the experience of being with rare sharks and experiencing their wonder. The only way to donate (in the traditional sense) is through purchasing one of their shirts, which you can do on their website.
Sea Shepherd Conservation Society
The Sea Shepherd Conservation Society protects and conserves all marine life. Their goal is to expose, intercept, and oppose illegal operations that damage and destroy marine wildlife and habitats. They are a non-profit organization and all funds go towards expeditions. To learn more, visit their website.
Project AWARE advocates for bans on the removal of shark fins at sea, secure marine sanctuaries in Australia as well as implementations and protections for migratory sharks and rays. To get involved, you can sign petitions and teach AWARE Shark Conservation Diver Specialty Course. To learn more, visit their website.
WildAid is focused on reducing global consumption of wildlife products (shark fins being high on that list) and increasing local support for conservation efforts. They also work with governments and partners to protect fragile marine reserves from illegal fishing and shark finning. To learn more and meet some of their notable ambassadors, visit their website.