Tell The Whaling Commission To Support A Safe Sanctuary For Whale Survival
1,912 signatures toward our 30,000 Goal
Sponsor: Free The Ocean
Our whales are under relentless threat—join us now to halt their slaughter and secure a thriving future for these majestic ocean giants.
Whales are vital to the health of our oceans, playing a crucial role in maintaining marine ecosystems and supporting biodiversity. However, their survival is under threat. The International Whaling Commission (IWC) recently failed to establish the South Atlantic Whale Sanctuary, a significant setback for whale conservation efforts1.
The South Atlantic Whale Sanctuary was designed to create a protected zone extending from West Africa to South America, safeguarding 53 species of whales and other cetaceans1. For over 25 years, Argentina, Brazil, South Africa, and Uruguay have championed this initiative, aiming to ban commercial whaling and enhance regional cooperation. Despite strong support from 40 countries, pro-whaling nations like Norway opposed the sanctuary, leading to its narrow defeat2.
Controversial Whaling Practices
Japan continues its controversial whaling practices, expanding its quota by 59 fin whales this year alone3. Fin whales are listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, and their populations are struggling to recover from decades of intensive hunting. The IWC reprimanded Japan for not fulfilling its legal obligations under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), highlighting the ongoing challenges in enforcing whale protection measures3.
The failure to establish the South Atlantic Whale Sanctuary underscores the persistent influence of pro-whaling factions within the IWC2. Conservation groups describe the defeat as a "bitter disappointment," emphasizing the urgent need for international cooperation to protect these magnificent creatures4.
Whales and Carbon Sequestration
Whales contribute to carbon sequestration, which is vital in combating climate change, and their decline threatens the resilience of marine ecosystems5. Establishing the South Atlantic Whale Sanctuary would not only protect whale populations but also promote sustainable marine practices and strengthen global conservation efforts.
Humanity's Responsibility
Humanity has a responsibility to protect and preserve the natural world. Compassionate stewardship ensures that future generations inherit a healthier planet, where whales and other marine life can thrive4. By signing this petition, you join a global movement advocating for the establishment of the South Atlantic Whale Sanctuary, ensuring a sustainable future for all.
Take action now. Sign the petition to urge the International Whaling Commission to protect South Atlantic whales and secure a better future for our oceans.
- David Stanway, Reuters (27 September 2024), "South Atlantic whale sanctuary plan blocked at international meeting."
- Environmental Investigation Agency (27 September 2024), "IWC affirms ongoing support for the global moratorium on commercial whaling but narrowly fails to adopt a South Atlantic whale sanctuary."
- International Fund for Animal Welfare (26 September 2024), "Whale Sanctuary harpooned, Japan rebuked at Whaling Commission meeting."
- Humane Society International (26 September 2024), "Bitter disappointment as pro-whaling nations at IWC block South Atlantic whale sanctuary in 26 year battle to protect whales, but whale-friendly nations unite to reaffirm global commercial whaling ban."
- WWF, "Successes and Failures of the International Whaling Commission."
The Petition:
To the Chair, Vice Chair, Acting U.S. Commissioner and Members of the International Whaling Commission,
We, the undersigned, urgently call upon the International Whaling Commission to reconsider the establishment of the South Atlantic Whale Sanctuary. The creation of this sanctuary is not only a crucial step in protecting vulnerable whale populations but also a testament to our collective humanity and compassion towards these majestic marine creatures.
Whales play an integral role in maintaining the health of our oceans. They contribute to the balance of marine ecosystems, support biodiversity, and aid in carbon sequestration, which is vital in our fight against climate change. The continued exploitation of whale populations threatens these benefits and undermines the resilience of marine life.
Humanity has a responsibility to protect and preserve the natural world for future generations. Compassionate stewardship of our planet’s resources ensures that all species, including whales, can thrive. Establishing the South Atlantic Whale Sanctuary would demonstrate our commitment to ethical conservation practices and the sustainable management of marine resources.
By endorsing this sanctuary, the IWC will not only safeguard endangered whale species but also promote international cooperation and strengthen global conservation efforts. This action will set a precedent for the protection of marine life and contribute to a healthier, more sustainable future for all.
We urge you to prioritize the well-being of whales and the integrity of our oceans by approving the South Atlantic Whale Sanctuary. Let us work together to ensure a better future for all inhabitants of our planet.
Sincerely,
