Asian Conservation Groups Join Global Coalition To Protect All Aquatic Animals

Several major conservation groups in Asia have joined the Coalition for Aquatic Conservation (CAC), a global movement led by the Aquatic Life Institute dedicated to protecting and improving the welfare of all aquatic animals. With most of the world’s aquaculture production and fishing fleets situated in Asia, the participation from the region’s conservation groups is crucial to the global fight against wildlife destruction. 

Announced last Friday on World Day for Farmed Animals (October 2), a number of Asian conservation groups including Animal Friends Jogja, the Hong Kong Shark Foundation, People for Animals Odisha, Sinergia and the Humane League Japan have joined the CAC. It marks a step forward in expanding the coordination and network of the nascent aquatic animal welfare movement. 

“As sentient beings, aquatic animals should be treated with humane practices in both farmed and wild capture practices,” said William Bench, founder of the Aquatic Life Institute, the organisation that leads the CAC. “Improving welfare for aquatic animals is not only a moral obligation but a necessity for ensuring economic prosperity and food security for the entire Asia-Pacific region.”

Asia is home to the world’s biggest aquaculture farms and fisheries, accounting for almost 90% of global aquaculture production and 68% of global fishing fleets. Aquatic animals, who are intelligent and sentient beings, are overwhelmingly farmed and captured under cruel, high-suffering and low-welfare conditions. 

As sentient beings, aquatic animals should be treated with humane practices in both farmed and wild capture practices. Improving welfare for aquatic animals is not only a moral obligation but a necessity for ensuring economic prosperity and food security for the entire Asia-Pacific region.

William Bench, Founder of Aquatic Life Institute

With several Asia-based welfare organisations on board, the CAC hopes to be able to leverage their advocacy efforts and make a significant difference in the region to improve the lives of aquatic animals. Members will be diving into species-specific as well as regionally specific issues, help coordinate strategies and develop new campaigns and initiatives to undertake research, educate the public and lobby for change. 

Lead image courtesy of Pexels.