Target: Hon. Shintaro Ito, Minister of the Environment, Japan
Goal: Advocate for effective and humane strategies to manage the increasing bear population and ensure public safety.
Japan is experiencing a significant increase in bear attacks. This alarming trend has led the Japanese government to consider revising laws to allow licensed hunters more freedom to shoot bears, especially when they pose a risk to humans.
The current law mandates that hunters must receive police approval before firing their guns. The proposed revision aims to permit hunters to shoot bears if they enter buildings or pose an immediate threat to human safety. However, this approach has raised concerns among hunters, who highlight the risks involved in confronting bears and the potential for increased danger if bears are not killed instantly.
In Hokkaido, the northernmost major island of Japan, the bear population has more than doubled since 1990, with around 12,000 brown bears, which are known to be more aggressive than the estimated 10,000 black bears in Japan. Local governments have employed various strategies to mitigate bear encounters, including the use of robot wolves and AI warning systems. Despite these efforts, the danger remains significant.
There have been several serious incidents, including two police officers in Akita prefecture who were severely injured while trying to retrieve a body after a suspected fatal bear attack. The bears are increasingly venturing into populated areas, driven by the availability of food and the reduced human population in rural towns. This has led to a higher likelihood of violent encounters between bears and humans.
The Japanese government and local authorities must implement comprehensive and humane measures to address this growing threat. It is crucial to balance public safety with the welfare of wildlife. Ensure that actions taken do not exacerbate the problem or lead to unnecessary suffering for the animals.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Hon. Shintaro Ito,
I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the rising number of bear attacks in Japan and the proposed revisions to hunting laws that would make it easier to shoot bears in residential areas. While the safety of the public is paramount, it is essential that any measures taken are both effective and humane.
The alarming increase in bear attacks underscores the urgency of addressing this issue. However, allowing hunters more freedom to shoot bears without stringent regulations could lead to greater risks and potentially exacerbate the problem. It is crucial to implement comprehensive strategies that include public education on avoiding bear encounters, the use of non-lethal deterrents, and better waste management to reduce attractants. Additionally, investment in wildlife management technologies and increased support for local authorities can help manage bear populations more effectively.
Please ensure that the revised laws prioritize both human safety and the humane treatment of wildlife. The balance between these two concerns is vital for the well-being of both communities and animals. Your intervention in this matter is essential to create a safe and humane environment for all. I urge you to consider these points and take action to implement effective, compassionate solutions to the growing bear problem in Japan.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: jasohill
