Shark Sanctuaries, Trade Bans, and
International Agreements
A new guide by the Pew Environment Group, “How World Leaders are Protecting Sharks,” highlights new laws and initiatives that help protect global shark populations around the world, including shark sanctuaries, shark fin trade bans, and regional agreements. Since 2009 when Palau, followed shortly afterwards by the Maldives, Honduras, The Bahamas, Tokelau, and the Marshall Islands all proclaimed shark sanctuaries in their waters, more and more world leaders are considering the benefits of shark protections. To support the work of countries currently working towards or considering shark protections, the Pew Environment Group assembled these materials to guide their decision-making process.
Some of the highlights include:
- Examples of how Palau, the Maldives, Honduras, Tokelau, the Bahamas and the Marshall Islands have banned shark fishing in their Exclusive Economic Zones.
- Examples of written decrees and legislative language used to help create a national sanctuary.
- Actual language from international and regional shark protection agreements and shark trade bans around the world.
For more information or a hard copy of this guide, please contact us at sharks@pewtrusts.org.