A world-renowned marine biologist and sea explorer has a message for the nations: Stop krill fishing near Antarctica. But Dr. Sylvia Earle, who is 91, faces pushback. Officials from the United States, China, Russia, and 24 other governments discussed a deal last week. It would dramatically expand fishing for the crustaceans.
The Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources is an international organization. It manages the world’s southernmost fishery. The group has been deadlocked for years over a plan to increase krill fishing.
Environmentalists and the Commission’s scientific committee insist the effort should be conducted with safeguards. Argentina and Chile made a proposal 10 years ago: Create a California-sized marine protected area near the Antarctic peninsula. Fishing would be restricted there.
Krill fishing around Antarctica shut down early in August for the second straight year. Trawlers, most of which are from Norway and China, hit the 623,000 metric ton limit before the season’s scheduled end in November.
Scientists estimate that there are more than 700 trillion adult Antarctic krill in Earth’s oceans. The shrimp-like creatures range from about a quarter-inch to two inches long. Fish, penguins, and whales dine on them.
Despite the species’ abundance, Krill numbers have declined in recent years. Ocean temperatures are rising, and krill need water colder than 39° Fahrenheit to survive. Research shows the little creatures have started migrating toward chillier waters near the South Pole.
People harvest vast amounts of krill to feed farmed fish. Omega-3 capsules contain krill fish oil. The supplements are meant to improve human heart, brain, and joint health.
Dr. Earle says Norwegian company Aker BioMarine takes about “two-thirds of the krill to marketplace.” She observes, “Some of it goes to make krill oil that has been marketed as good for our health. Maybe it is, but at what cost to the environment?”
She argues, “These are not necessities.”
Other sources of omega-3 do exist. They include varieties of fish oil, algae, and some vegetables. In addition, nutritionists say taking supplements isn’t required. People simply need to eat a balanced diet rich in fatty acids.
Earning the nickname “Her Deepness,” Dr. Earle has spent more than 7,000 hours underwater studying ocean life. She works on conservation through an organization called Mission Blue. The group champions “Hope Spots” in the oceans that are critical to marine flourishing.
She notes that excess krill fishing has wide-reaching impact. “Krill are critical to the integrity of the entire system—whales, fish, birds, seals, sea lions, you name it.”
Can fishers make an honest living while scientists guide them on the wisest ways to steward harvests? Pray they can work together with discernment, respecting God’s people and His creatures.
The Earth is the Lord’s and the fullness thereof, the world and those who dwell therein. — Psalm 24:1
