Icelandwhich together with Norway and Japan are the only countries that authorize the whalinggave permission this Thursday to two vessels to continue with this questionable activity for five years.
Reykjavík authorized the annual hunting of 209 fin whales and 217 minke whales per season, which runs from mid-June to September, the government announced.
In 2023,Iceland suspended whaling for two months following a government investigation,which concluded that the methods used breached animal welfare laws.
The public veterinary agency demonstrated that the explosive harpoons used by hunters caused agony for several hours in the prey.
Following this investigation, the government authorized the resumption of the hunt with certain restrictions on the methods used and imposing the presence of official inspectors on board the whalers, who must film the hunt for each cetacean.
“Democracy was not respected and the granting of the permit violates the interests of the climate, nature and animal welfare,” the Icelandic Habitat Association and its youth protested in a joint statement.
The icelandic government’s decision came three days after a court in Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark, decided to extend the provisional detention of the environmental activist. paul Watsonwhose extradition Japan requested as a result of its fight against whaling.
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The 73-year-old environmental activist, who has American and Canadian nationality and recently applied for French citizenship, was arrested on July 21 in Nuuk, the capital of greenland.
When he was arrested,Watson,founder of the NGO sea Shepherd,was aboard his ship “John Paul DeJoria” with the aim of intercepting a Japanese whaler.
Japan requests his extradition for a 2010 case, also related to whaling.
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What are the potential environmental impacts of Iceland’s decision too permit whaling?
interview with Marine Conservation Expert on Iceland’s Controversial Whaling Decision
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today to discuss Iceland’s recent decision to grant whaling permits for the next five years.How do you view this decision in light of the ongoing debate surrounding whaling?
Expert: Thank you for having me. This decision is indeed controversial and raises important ethical and environmental questions. While Iceland, alongside Norway and Japan, is one of the few countries that still authorize whaling, it’s essential to consider the implications of such practices on marine life and biodiversity, especially when it comes to animal welfare.
time.news Editor: The Icelandic government has authorized the hunting of 209 fin whales and 217 minke whales per season. Can you explain why these particular species are targeted and the potential consequences of this?
Expert: Fin and minke whales are often targeted due to their populations being perceived as stable enough to withstand controlled hunting. Though, these animals play crucial roles in their ecosystems. Overhunting can disrupt marine environments, leading to unforeseen consequences, including shifts in prey populations and habitat degradation.
Time.news Editor: There was a government inquiry revealing that the explosive harpoons used by hunters caused significant suffering to the whales. What measures have been taken to address these concerns, and are they sufficient?
Expert: Following the investigation findings, the government has imposed stricter regulations, including the requirement for official inspectors to be present on whaling vessels and the mandate for the hunting process to be filmed. While these are positive steps toward improving oversight, many animal welfare advocates argue that the killing methods themselves remain inhumane. Effective animal welfare policies should prioritize the minimization of suffering, which is still a significant concern here.
Time.news Editor: The Icelandic Habitat association and youth groups expressed strong disapproval of the decision, emphasizing violations of democratic principles and climate interests. What role do public opinions and protests play in shaping such policies?
Expert: Public opinion is critically critically important in shaping policy, especially regarding environmental issues. Demonstrations and advocacy can force governments to reconsider their actions and add pressure for more sustainable and ethical practices. In this case,the voices of concerned citizens could play a pivotal role in future discussions regarding whaling and the protection of marine ecosystems.
Time.news Editor: This decision follows the arrest of prominent activist Paul Watson, founder of Sea Shepherd, over his anti-whaling activism. How do you see the relationship between activism and whaling practices evolving in the future?
Expert: Activism is likely to intensify in response to governmental decisions like this. As activists like Watson have demonstrated, there is a strong commitment to the fight against whaling, which often means risking legal challenges. The dynamic between activists and those engaged in whaling will probably continue to be contentious, highlighting the tension between conservation efforts and traditional practices. The international community will also be watching closely, and increased scrutiny can lead to changes at the policy level.
Time.news Editor: For our readers who are concerned about this issue, what practical steps can they take to advocate for marine conservation and animal welfare?
Expert: Readers can participate in advocacy efforts by supporting organizations dedicated to marine conservation, participating in local clean-up events, and educating themselves and others about the importance of marine ecosystems. They can also engage with policymakers, urging them to prioritize sustainable practices. Every action counts in the fight against whaling and for the protection of our oceans.
Time.news Editor: Thank you for your insights today. It’s crucial to keep the dialog going about whaling, animal welfare, and environmental sustainability.
Expert: Absolutely, and thank you for highlighting these critically important issues. Awareness and action are key to ensuring a more sustainable future for our oceans.