Shark Trust

Who are Shark Trust?

The Shark Trust is the leading UK-based shark conservation charity. We work globally to safeguard the future of sharks and rays through positive change.

From an office in Plymouth, the Trust engages with a global network of scientists, policymakers, conservation professionals, businesses and supporters. Oceanic sharks and rays have declined 71% over the last 50 years, primarily due to overfishing. Over three-quarters of oceanic sharks and rays are now at risk of extinction due to the destructive impact of overfishing.

The Oceanarium is supporting the Big Shark Pledge, which supports sharks and rays that are at risk from irresponsible fishing.

Sign the Big Shark Pledge here: https://www.sharktrust.org/bigsharkpledge and join us on our mission to secure the future for oceanic sharks and rays. Visit us and find out more about what we are doing to help raise awareness and how you can help save these beautiful creatures from extinction.

Why Sharks matter

By protecting sharks and rays we can help restore ocean health. Many shark species are top predators that play vital roles in ocean ecosystems. The presence of sharks and rays provides economic security for many communities. And having evolved over 400 million years, they’re a hugely diverse and important group that deserves our attention.

CURRENT CHALLENGES FOR SHARK CONSERVATION

Overfishing

The primary challenge in shark conservation is ending overfishing - addressing unsustainable and unmanaged fisheries. And the supply chains that drive the global consumption of shark products. This includes the Asian market for fins, but it also, importantly, includes international demand for meat, liver oil and cartilage products.

The Shark Trust are working actively to reform fisheries. Both domestically and on the high-seas. Pushing for sustainable management and science-based catch limits.