Reckless destruction of world's oceans

They’re crushed to death, suffocated, or thrown overboard to succumb to their injuries in the water.

Altogether, more than 1 trillion fish and other sea animals die at the hands of humans each year.

That’s about 143 sea animals for every human on Earth.

And the ecological impact goes well beyond this so-called “by-catch”.

As giant fishing nets are dragged along the ocean floor, they tear up whatever stands in their way.

Deep-sea trawling is responsible for widespread damage to coral reefs and underwater mountains, and as a result, the ecosystems that depend on these habitats are crumbling.

This reckless destruction of the ocean is both cruel and unsustainable.

The good news is that delicious cruelty-free options, including vegan fish fingers, faux-fish cakes and mock prawns, are affordable and easy to find.

So let’s celebrate World Oceans Day in a way that helps our oceans and shows respect for their inhabitants, by leaving fish and other animals off our plates.

Jennifer White

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals