Protect the Sharks and Rays

The Problem Overfishing is killing the ocean. Outside of climate change, overfishing is the main contributor to the rapid decline of ocean health, which is causing human catastrophe through loss of jobs, food security, profits, habitat, and ecosystem balance. Of the earth’s nearly 8 billion people, over 1 billion depend on seafood as their primary food source and the industry provides over 780 million jobs worldwide. Without immediate action, the precipitous decline of this resource will result in accelerated environmental degradation, international conflict, and hunger.   The Gift Confronting the issue through shark and ray conservation is a catalytic solution to this global problem. Sharks and rays are keystone species that play an essential role in our oceans and coastal communities. As apex predators, sharks and rays stabilize food webs and act as a barometer for ocean health. Fostering healthy shark and ray populations is essential to the creation of healthier ecosystems, which