Sharks Pacific has issued a strong statement to the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC), emphasizing that credible fisheries management cannot be claimed while overlooking the serious issues of marine pollution, particularly from abandoned fishing gear. During WCPFC22 in Manila, Policy Director Bubba Cook praised Canada’s proactive stance on this pressing matter but pointed out that existing regulations are not sufficient to tackle the scale of the problem.
Cook commended Canada for prioritizing marine pollution, including the challenges posed by Abandoned, Lost or Discarded Fishing Gear (ALDFG), which remains a critical fisheries management concern rather than merely an afterthought. He highlighted the devastating impacts of this type of pollution, noting that it continues to harm marine life, including sharks, turtles, and seabirds, long after fishing operations cease.
While some regulations exist under Conservation and Management Measure (CMM) 2017-04, Cook indicated substantial gaps remain in terms of data collection, enforcement, and accountability. He supported Canada’s detailed roadmap for revising the measure, which includes plans for intersessional work leading up to 2025 and a proposal for adoption at WCPFC23.
Sharks Pacific has laid out several priorities for the review process, advocating for clearer definitions and expanded coverage of various types of marine pollution such as plastics, electronic waste, and noise pollution. Cook emphasized that precise definitions are crucial, as ambiguity leads to weak compliance with regulations.
He also urged the implementation of enhanced accountability measures, including timely reporting requirements, improved port reception facilities to limit dumping, safeguards against disincentives for at-sea dumping, and robust compliance review systems. He described these improvements as essential for an operational, enforceable marine pollution measure.
Cook backed Canada’s proposed timeline for changes by 2026, warning against further delays, which he believes could undermine the urgency of addressing this critical issue. He reiterated that enhancing these measures is an opportunity for WCPFC to demonstrate its commitment to ecosystem impacts and to safeguard the fisheries that coastal communities rely on.
With the call for active participation from all Contracting Parties, Sharks Pacific is hopeful that a modern, enforceable marine pollution measure will be adopted at the next WCPFC meeting, laying the groundwork for better management of oceanic resources and protection of marine biodiversity.
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