the survival of juvenile sharks, it is
then possible to work to protect that
habitat from degradation or fishing
pressure. Moreover, by studying their
local movements and migration
patterns, we can understand where
sharks are going and how marine
tourism may be affecting them.
There is a variety of research
methods available to scientists
that can provide this information,
though most of them are expensive,
logistically complicated and require
long-term commitment.
Shark tourism can help provide
the necessary funding and give
researchers the opportunity to conduct
long-term, detailed studies.
- Protecting shark habitats
If shark conservation initiatives are
to be effective, it is vital that they
concentrate on protecting the entire
ecosystem. It is practically worthless
to try and save sharks if no other
regulations exist to protect their
habitat and food source. The best
way to do this is to legally protect
their environment and set up marine
protected areas (MPAs) or shark
sanctuaries. The financial benefits
derived from shark tourism often
provide just the incentive governments
need to establish these safe zones
for sharks, and the very best shark
diving companies do everything they
can to assist and work with other
organisations to pass laws that protect
the area in which they operate.
Unfortunately, managing these
areas is expensive, and limited
resources, coupled with indifference
and corruption, means there is often
a lack of enforcement. Once again,
shark ecotourism can help. Dive
operators benefit more than anyone
from a well-managed and healthy
marine environment and have a
responsibility to ensure that the
laws designed to protect the place
in which they work are enforced.
Not only is it the ethically correct
thing to do, it also makes sense for
their business.- Benefit local communities
Shark conservation initiatives should
be achieved in collaboration with
the local community while showing
respect and understanding for their
culture and traditions.
Some of the ways shark diving
companies can have a positive
influence within the community
include: - Offering jobs to local people and
individuals who would otherwise
participate in more destructive
environmental activities - Compensate fishermen financially
to not fish in protected areas - Invite members of the community
to take part in the activity and share
their experience with others- Give educational talks to schools
that teach future generations
about sharks and why they need
our protection
Many popular existing shark diving
destinations have seen a rise in
economic growth due to the increase
in visitors associated with the activity.
Consumer spending in the hospitality
industry also provides many new
ways the community can benefit from
shark tourism.
In order to truly benefit sharks
and contribute towards their
conservation, new and existing
companies should consider what
more they can do to be sustainable
tour operators and adjust and improve
their practices accordingly.
As shark divers, it is our
responsibility to make informed
decisions about the companies we
support and choose to dive with,
and there are a number of online
platforms that can help us to make
that decision.
Wherever you hope to enjoy your
next shark encounter, please consider
your options carefully. Diving with
sharks is an amazing experience,
and one that everyone should be able
to enjoy safely and at no cost to the
environment or the animals. ADABOVE: Providing an alternative source of income for fishermen can
help to ease fishing pressure
IMAGE: Daniel Norwood