Target: Steve Barclay, United Kingdom (UK) Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Goal: Set catch limits at a level that preserves fish stocks in imminent danger of collapse.
At least half of the United Kingdom’s biggest fish populations are in a critical state. Cod in particular have suffered from the overfishing that has depleted these stocks. On the current trajectory, experts say that population collapse is all but inevitable.
The problem is largely a result of Britain’s exit from the European Union and its subsequent exit from a common fisheries policy. This policy attempts to maintain a healthy balance amongst stocks by setting catch limits at a non-detrimental level. Yet Britain’s leaders are accused of routinely putting these limits well above levels recommended by scientists. As a result, fish that were once abundant pre-Brexit have now plummeted in numbers.
Sign the petition below to demand these supposed environmental stewards take their responsibility to safeguard a vital ecological and economic resource seriously.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Secretary Barclay,
“Protecting the environment is fundamental to the prosperity of our country and our new commitments will drive forward our mission to create a cleaner and greener country for all.” You made this statement in response to criticism that the British government has failed in meeting its nature conservation targets. Depleting fish stocks have been a matter of particular concern, as these animals are important in maintaining ecosystem balance and in ensuring the livelihoods of coastal communities.
Yet a recent report reveals just how dire the fish population problem has become in the past few years. Five of the 10 largest populations of fish are heading toward eventual collapse: a reality that could prove devastating on a natural and an economic level. The common fisheries policy by which this region once abided is an integral tool supported by science for maintaining healthy fish populations. Leaders, however, seem to be routinely disregarding and ignoring these recommendations at the ultimate peril of vulnerable marine life.
While actions like banning sandeel industrial fishing are important, they do not address the broader issue: unchecked overfishing on a massive scale. Please make it a priority to abide by recommended catch limits and help conserve some of Britain’s most vital natural resources.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo Credit: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
