Innovative solutions for shark conservation

SHARK smart: how do we keep sharks and people safe, is the main theme at an exhibition held at uShaka Marine World in Durban.

- ZAINUL DAWOOD

The Shark exhibition highlights innovative solutions that focus on nonlethal alternatives to mitigate shark risk. Hosted by conservation NGO, WildTrust, in partnership with the Shark Conservation Fund, the South African Association for Marine Biological Research (SAAMBR), the Oceanographic Research Institute (ORI), SharkSafe Barrier, Shark Spotters, Justice4Jaws, the Sharks & People Working Group, and others, the exhibition represents a bold step forward in rethinking the safety of both people and sharks in a way that also protects marine life.

"We were the first country to protect the white shark and now, more than ever, South Africa has the opportunity and responsibility to lead once again in shark and ray conservation," said WildTrust's senior scientist, Dr Jennifer Olbers.

"However, our laws are outdated, shark populations globally are under pressure, and two species — the large-tooth and green sawfish — have already been categorised as locally extinct," she added.