Outrage Over Japan's Decision to Hunt Vulnerable Fin Whales
The second-largest animal on Earth, fin whales, will soon be included in Japan's list of commercial whaling species, which already includes minke, Bryde's, and sei whales.
Japan's Plan to Include Fin Whales in Commercial Whaling
Japan has announced intentions to include fin whales, the world's second-largest animal, in its list of commercially hunted species, which currently consists of Bryde's, sei, and minke whales.
The decision has drawn heavy criticism from experts and would bring the total number of hunted whale species in Japanese waters to four. These species include Bryde's, sei, and minke whales, along with the newly proposed addition of fin whales.
The potential inclusion of fin whales is contingent upon public acceptance of amendments to Japan's marine resource management policy.
About Fin Whales
Fin whales, the second-largest whale species on Earth after blue whales, are recognizable by the distinctive fin on their backs. They can reach lengths of up to 85 feet and are found in oceans worldwide. However, their populations suffered a significant decline in the early 20th century due to commercial whaling, and they are still in the process of recovering.
Historical Context
In 1986, the International Whaling Commission (IWC) imposed a moratorium on commercial whaling. Although Japan ceased commercial hunts, it resumed whaling under the guise of scientific research in 1987. In 2019, Japan withdrew from the IWC and resumed commercial whaling in its territorial waters in the North Pacific Ocean.
Recent Developments
On May 9, officials announced Japan's potential resumption of fin whale hunting, citing whales as important food resources that should be sustainably utilized based on scientific evidence.
Current Whaling Activities
Recent data from the IWC shows that Japan has been hunting sei, Bryde's, and minke whales. Additionally, Japan has imported fin whale meat from Iceland.
Conservation Concerns
Fin whales are listed as vulnerable to extinction by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, there is insufficient data on their status in the North Pacific. Environmental advocates warn that Japan's plans could have detrimental effects on ocean protection and stress the importance of fully protecting fin whales.
Future Outlook
Japan's decision to include fin whales in its commercial whaling activities depends on the outcome of public consultations regarding the country's new whaling policy. Despite opposition, approval seems likely, according to OceanCare.
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