Mountains, canyons, plains — these geological features are not only present on land, but also under the sea, where scientists have now charted them in incredible detail in the ocean surrounding Antarctica. The five-year project mapped 18.5 million square miles, and even revealed a new deepest point in the Southern Ocean, a depression lying 7,432 meters (24,383 feet) below sea level called the Factorian Deep. This study and others like it around the world are filling major scientific gaps in our understanding of what the ocean floor looks like, a key part of knowing how to foster ocean health. More mapping also enables us to make an even stronger science-backed case for marine protected areas. If you want to turn this positive progress into action, you can join us today as we call on world leaders to protect Antarctica and secure the largest act of ocean protection in history. We’re close to reaching our goal of 250,000 petition signatures!
Update - Campaign Win!
On Nov. 17th, an overwhelming majority of global leaders voted to list requiem sharks as a CITES protected species – the biggest shark protection measure in CITES history. Requiem sharks – one of the ocean's largest and most important shark families – have been fished to the edge of extinction. The listing will not only protect endangered requiem sharks from trade, but also will regulate more than 90 percent of the global shark fin trade, up from 25% prior to the vote.
An upcoming vote this week amongst over 180 nations could protect endangered sharks from being commercially finned. Can you add your name to our letter urging world leaders to end this gruesome practice?
The global appetite for fins and lack of sufficient management of commercial fisheries has devastated shark populations. Today, nearly two-thirds of requiem sharks – one of the ocean’s largest and most important shark families – have been fished to the edge of extinction.
But we have an unprecedented opportunity to save requiem sharks from global extermination. This week, world governments will hold their annual Convention on the International Trade of Endangered Species (CITES) and vote on whether to add requiem sharks to the list of protected species, and by doing so, regulate the majority of the global shark fin trade.
