If you were a kid in the 1970s, you were almost certainly terrified of going into the ocean – a fear instilled in you by the Jaws movies. However, according to the International Shark Attack File, there are only about 72 unprovoked shark attacks worldwide each year, which is a relatively small number given the many sleepless nights and swimming phobias caused by a fear of sharks.
The far more terrifying reality is that the much-maligned shark has long been under attack from its greatest predator: us. In any given year, humans kill well over 100 million sharks. This week on Sea Change Radio, we speak with Mongabay reporter Philip Jacobson about one Chinese-based fishing company’s illegal shark-finning practices, why he believes this practice is far from unique, and what efforts are being made to save this important apex predator.
