Last month, the World Trade Organization (WTO) took a hugely important first step to ban harmful fisheries subsidies that directly lead to overfishing. We need a healthy and abundant ocean to sustain food for billions and jobs for millions of people. More than 3 billion people rely directly on ocean fish as a significant source of animal protein, especially in low-income countries where healthy fish populations are critical to food security and jobs.
WTO deserves credit for taking this action, but there are still far too many big boats chasing too few fish. Industrial fishing is decimating our ocean. When governments stop subsidizing their fishing fleets, they stop fueling overfishing. The result will be much healthier fish populations – among the most diverse creatures on the planet, with over 35,000 ocean species – and will lead to more productive fisheries and economically stronger coastal communities. Tell the WTO to get the job done. When they do, there will be huge benefits for billions of people worldwide who depend on a healthy ocean to survive and for generations yet to come!
It’s also a lifestyle, it’s a way of life, it’s a mindset, and together we are growing a movement! To help, we want to make it easy for you to make a big difference. Learn more about the 12 Months of Action by clicking here.