A Victory for Marine Mammals
The United States has taken a historic step to protect marine mammals by proposing to ban seafood imports that fail to meet U.S. bycatch reduction standards. Bycatch—the incidental capture of whales, dolphins, sea lions, and seals in commercial fishing operations—is a leading cause of death for marine mammals worldwide. This ban, which will take effect on January 1, 2026, is a significant milestone in the fight for ocean conservation.
Sea Shepherd crews in BC document sea lions trapped in fishing nets—a stark reminder of the bycatch crisis (2020).
The Marine Mammal Protection Act in Action
This decision enforces long-overlooked provisions of the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA). Under the MMPA, foreign fisheries exporting seafood to the U.S. must adhere to bycatch standards as strict as those imposed on American fisheries. After years of delayed enforcement, conservation groups successfully pushed for this long-awaited action, ensuring U.S. laws protect not only domestic waters but also global marine ecosystems.
Global Implications for Fisheries
The action is set to reshape the global seafood market. Countries that export seafood to the U.S. will need to adopt stricter measures to prevent marine mammal bycatch or risk losing access to one of the most lucrative markets. This requirement forces nations to reevaluate harmful fishing practices and could drive significant changes in international fishing policies.
Sea Shepherd crews haul an ensnared dolphin onto deck in the Sea of Cortez
Sea Shepherd’s Ongoing Role
For decades, Sea Shepherd has worked to protect marine mammals and hold industries accountable for bycatch. Previous efforts, such as securing a ban on seafood imports tied to New Zealand fisheries threatening Māui dolphins, showcase the effectiveness of leveraging legal and economic pressure to drive change. This action builds on that momentum, providing conservation groups with a powerful tool to advocate for better protections worldwide.
A Step Toward Safer Ocean
While enforcement challenges remain, this decision sends a powerful message: the exploitation of marine mammals for profit will no longer be tolerated. This victory is a testament to the power of collective action and a critical step forward in the fight to protect marine life and restore balance to our oceans.
SUPPORT SEA SHEPHERD
