Activist group the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society has recently carried out a number of efforts to express their stand against the diminishing fish stocks in Hawaii.
Based on the results of research conducted by the group, at least 30 million fish were being harvested from reefs in different parts of the world. In Hawaii alone, half a million fish were removed from their natural homes and transported to artificial habitats such as aquariums.
The activist group condemned this practice and launched some efforts to fight those organizing fish harvesting. The group rammed their vehicle into a whaling ship controlled by Japanese fishing companies, and threw glass containers filled with acid into their ship. The ship was caught capturing whales in Antarctica.
In addition, Sea Shepherd members engaged in a legal battle with fish collectors from Hawaii after the activists approached the collectors. A fight ensued, and both parties have filed lawsuits against each other.
Mike Long, Sea Shepherd director for the campaign to curb fish harvesting in Hawaii, told the Science Recorder that it wasn't the group's intention to harass the fishermen. They reportedly wanted to create awareness about the dangers associated with the sort of activities that were being carried out. He also explained that Sea Shepherd provided support for local activists groups fighting for the same cause.
Assistant professor from Roger Williams University Andy Rhine added that the rules in fishery management could be improved, but policies aiming to decrease the number cases of excessive fish harvesting were already in place.
Arielle Levine from the San Diego State University stated that the establishment of no-collection areas became effective deterrents of overfishing.
