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Hammerhead shark (c) mark harding
Shark heads © jonas andersson

 
 


Why Conserve Sharks? 

 
Sharks have inhabited the world’s oceans for over 400 million years but, within only a few decades, humanity has put many species at risk, and driven others to extinction. It is estimated that 73 million sharks are killed every year as a result of bycatch and the vast international demand for shark fins for soup. That’s three sharks every second!
 
A recent report on sharks in the northwest Atlantic reveals that populations of some large species have fallen by 75% to 90% since 1986.  Other research indicates that some formally highly abundant species are now present at less than 2% of their original numbers. Within UK waters several species are regionally extinct and without rapid intervention the future is bleak.
 
As apex predators, sharks maintain the balance of the marine ecosystem and play a critical role in our oceans.  Their disappearance could have devastating effects throughout the marine environment.


Our members play a vital role in the Shark Trust. Your membership will support our continued calls for:

 Increased public awareness of the conservation needs of these vulnerable species;
 Development of national and international management and conservation strategies; 
 Legal protection for threatened species;
 Increased research into shark biology and ecology.


In addition to supporting shark conservation, you will also receive:

 A welcome pack full of information on shark projects, A4 poster - sharks in British waters, a bookmark, car stickers and the latest issue of Shark Focus. You will receive a further 3 copies of the Shark Focus throughout the year. The initial membership pack is very similar to the adoption pack, should you order both, items will be duplicated.
 Priority viewing of The Shark Trust magazine.
                    
 Active engagement in campaigns: whether the Trust is working to change legislation or raise public profile the weight of an active membership behind us creates a powerful lobbying force – join the Trust and make your thoughts really count;
 Regular updates on news events and activities;
 Special offers, competitions and a chance to share your views in our online members lounge.


Gift Aid

Use Gift Aid and you can make your donation worth more. For every pound you give to us, we get an extra 28 pence from Inland Revenue.

Please sign the declaration when joining or donating, thank you!
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The Shark Trust promotes the study, management and conservation of sharks, skates and rays. The Shark Trust is the UK member of the European Elasmobranch Association. As such, it collaborates with other national member bodies to achieve their aims in British, European and international waters. The Trust aims to join forces with other groups concerned with shark, skate and ray conservation issues. These include commercial fisherman, recreational sea anglers, divers, yachtsmen, and all those who want to ensure the future survival of these fascinating but threatened animals.