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The International Plan of Action for Sharks: How does national implementation measure up?

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  • Davis, Brendal
  • Worm, Boris

Abstract

Various species of sharks, skates, and rays continue to decline globally, demonstrating a greater need for effective conservation measures. In 1999 the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) developed comprehensive guidelines in its International Plan of Action for the Conservation and Management of Sharks (IPOA-sharks), which was followed by corresponding national plans in some nations. A case study of national implementation is presented here. Specifically, progress under Canada's National Plan of Action for Sharks (NPOA-sharks) is reviewed, against its stated goals, against Australia's NPOA, and against the original FAO guidelines. For comprehensiveness, additional management and conservation measures for sharks, as well as stakeholder input from the first Atlantic Shark Forum is provided. Although Canada is recognized as a leader in shark management, as it was one of the first countries to develop an NPOA, it has not effectively adopted the FAO's principles and guidelines. The plan lacks set timelines, priorities, and action plans to mitigate threats to sharks, and contains no performance indicators. Additionally, the plan neglects to identify priority species and engage stakeholders, and cannot be directly linked to management measures. To advance the revision of this plan (as well as other NPOAs), a stepwise process is recommended that includes (i) stakeholder engagement and development of a shark assessment report (SAR) (ii) addressing all IPOA objectives, while prioritizing issues arising from the SAR, and (iii) implementations of actions, targets, and timelines that are reviewed every four years. Key policy items to advance Canada's role in shark conservation and management are also presented. These include actions to improve data collection and research, management, and education, as well as coordination with stakeholders. In conclusion,major changes are needed to the existing NPOA to be fully effective and accountable. Likewise, the abovementioned measures may help guide more proactive plans in nations that have not yet established an NPOA.

Suggested Citation

  • Davis, Brendal & Worm, Boris, 2013. "The International Plan of Action for Sharks: How does national implementation measure up?," Marine Policy, Elsevier, vol. 38(C), pages 312-320.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:marpol:v:38:y:2013:i:c:p:312-320
    DOI: 10.1016/j.marpol.2012.06.007
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    Cited by:

    1. Stephanie M. Sabbagh & Gordon M. Hickey, 2019. "Social Factors Affecting Sustainable Shark Conservation and Management in Belize," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 12(1), pages 1-19, December.
    2. Sybersma, Stacie, 2015. "Review of shark legislation in Canada as a conservation tool," Marine Policy, Elsevier, vol. 61(C), pages 121-126.

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