The Canadian government has passed legislation banning the import and export of shark fins, becoming the first country in the world to do so and earning the applause of a new foundation named after the late and great filmmaker Rob Stewart.
Canada imports nearly 170,000 kg/187 tons of shark fin per year, making it the largest importer of shark fins outside Asia.
The legislation comes over a decade after Rob Stewart launched his #finfree campaign.
According to the nascent Rob Stewart Sharkwater Foundation:
“Rob dreamed of a #finfree world and began a movement across Canada, starting with municipalities that included Toronto passing a shark fin ban in 2011. This bill goes far in our joint fight to save sharks.
‘The shark fin amendment bill is dedicated to Mr. Stewart’s life’s work to save sharks from extinction and to his memory,’ said Senator Harder.
“Today we salute Rob’s parents, Sandy and Brian, for tirelessly working to fulfill his vision, and join them in thanking the Canadian Parliament for taking this important step to save sharks and protect ocean ecosystems. Special thanks to the Government of Canada, Minister of Fisheries, Jonathan Wilkinson, Senator Michael MacDonald, MP Finn Donnelly, MP Pam Damoff, Kristyn Wong-Tam — Toronto City Councillor, Team Sharkwater, Phil Gillies, and everyone else who made Rob’s dream a reality.”
The shark fin ban in Canada is an incredible start for the new foundation, which advocates for ocean conservation just as Rob Stewart did — through awareness, education, and entertainment.
For more info on the foundation, check out the video below or go to robstewartsharkwaterfoundation.org.
