Shark Guardian reflects on a year filled with impactful projects, groundbreaking discoveries, and continued advocacy for shark conservation, education, Research and Expeditions. Here is a detailed summary of our key reports, activities, and achievements in 2024. Each summary includes a link to the full article for those who wish to dive deeper.
SHARK GUARDIAN CONSERVATION
Open Letter to Seychelles Regarding Shark Fishing: Shark Guardian issued an open letter to the government of Seychelles, urging immediate action against unsustainable shark fishing practices. Seychelles, known for its biodiversity, faces increasing pressure to protect its shark populations. Read the full letter and learn about our recommendations here: Open Letter to Seychelles.
The Global Mortality from Shark Fishing Continues to Increase: New data reveals a troubling rise in shark mortality rates due to fishing activities worldwide. This article explores the causes and offers solutions to reverse the trend. Discover more about this critical issue here: Global Mortality from Shark Fishing.
Could New Drone Footage Capture a Newborn Great White Shark?: Speculation arose when drone footage potentially captured a newborn great white shark for the first time. This exciting development could provide valuable insights into the species’ breeding habits. Watch the footage and read more here: Drone Footage of Newborn Great White.
Ethical Release of Captive Leopard Shark: Shark Guardian family collaborated to ethically release a Zebra (a.k.a Leopard) shark held in a restaurant back into the wild. This inspiring story highlights the importance of community action in conservation. Read the full story here: Ethical Release of Leopard Shark.
Shark Fin Crisis Grips Thailand’s Market: WildAid’s latest report highlights the alarming prevalence of shark fins in Thailand’s markets, revealing gaps in enforcement and awareness. Learn more about this crisis and what’s being done to address it here: Shark Fin Crisis in Thailand.
31% of Sharks Under Threat: A new report emphasizes that nearly a third of shark species face the risk of extinction. This article delves into the threats and the urgent conservation measures needed to save these vital predators. Explore the findings here: 31% of Sharks Under Threat.
World’s Biggest Tuna Producer Accused of Empty Sustainability Promises: Shark Guardian investigated claims against a leading tuna producer for misleading sustainability practices. This exposé sheds light on the need for transparency in the fishing industry. Read the investigation here: Tuna Producer’s Sustainability Claims.
Fong Chun Formosa Investigation: Our in-depth investigation revealed environmental and human rights violations by the global tuna giant Fong Chun Formosa. The report underscores the intersection of environmental conservation and ethical labor practices. Discover the full findings here: Fong Chun Formosa Investigation.
Shark Conservation in the Galapagos: The Galapagos Islands continue to be a stronghold for shark conservation efforts. This article highlights ongoing projects and their success in protecting these iconic predators. Learn more here: Shark Conservation in the Galapagos.
IUCN Report: A Third of Sharks ThreatenedA new IUCN report reveals that one-third of sharks, rays, and chimaeras face extinction. The findings call for urgent global action to address overfishing and habitat destruction. Read the full report and its implications here: IUCN Report on Threatened Sharks.
SHARK GUARDIAN EDUCATION
In 2024, Shark Guardian conducted an inspiring array of educational outreach programs, visiting schools and engaging with communities around the globe. Through dynamic school presentations, we shared the importance of shark conservation with thousands of students, sparking curiosity and action among the next generation of ocean advocates. Our public presentations reached broader audiences, raising awareness about the critical role sharks play in marine ecosystems. Highlights from these events, including enthusiastic participants and impactful moments, were featured on our Instagram and Facebook pages. Check out our social media platforms for a glimpse into the incredible work we accomplished together: Instagram | Facebook.
SHARK RESEARCH
Historic Milestone in Shark Research and Conservation: Off North Stradbroke Island, Australia, the first-ever collection of semen from wild Indo-Pacific leopard sharks is underway, marking a groundbreaking achievement in shark conservation. This innovative effort, led by the StAR Project and partner organizations, will support artificial insemination programs to boost egg production and genetic diversity in aquariums across Australia and Singapore. Fertilized eggs will be transported to Raja Ampat for rewilding initiatives, contributing to vital shark repopulation programs.
The expedition, supported by Conservation International, Ocean Park Hong Kong, Sea World Gold Coast, and others, shows promise for extending this technique to other shark and ray species. Read more about this exciting project here: Instagram Post.
SHARK GUARDIAN EXPEDITIONS
Inspiring Conservation Through Adventure: This year, Shark Guardian led two incredible international school shark expedition camps. Students from Bangkok traveled to Krabi, Thailand, where they engaged in educational shark presentations, citizen science workshops, and spent three days diving and snorkeling with sharks around the Phi Phi Islands. The camps also included presentations at local schools and a community beach cleanup.
In May, we organized two expeditions to Malapascua, Philippines, offering participants the unique experience of diving with thresher sharks. The trips featured educational presentations and insights into local shark research projects.
In April and September/October, Brendon joined ScubaSpa in the Maldives, delivering engaging shark presentations while diving with guests in the Maldives Shark Sanctuary. September brought the added excitement of exploring the southern Maldives to dive with tiger sharks!
Check out our Instagram for highlights and photos from these unforgettable expeditions.
Looking Ahead
As we prepare for 2025, Shark Guardian remains committed to its mission of protecting sharks and marine ecosystems. Thank you to all our members, partners, and supporters who make this work possible. Together, we’re making a difference for sharks and the oceans they call home.