Canada Bans Trade in Shark Fins

Canada's Senate last week passed Bill C-68, which secures more protection and conservation measures for fish and fish habitats. The law overhauls federal Fisheries Act changes that took place in 2012, and also includes more protections for sharks, including a ban on all shark fin imports and exports.

Nikki Skuce, director of Canadian environmental charity organization Northern Confluence Initiative, told the CBC the bill gives more power to protect marine life compared to previous changes to the law. "The biggest change in 2012 was that the protection of fish habitat was basically taken out, and without protecting fish habitat, you have no fish," Skuce said.

Because of these changes, Canada is now the first G-20 country to enact a ban on the import and export of shark fin products.

Sandra and Brian Stewart, parents of the late filmmaker Rob Stewart, were present during a press conference to praise the passing of the bill. They thanked everyone involved and stated, "We know somewhere Robby is dancing and sending love to the world and saying thanks." Stewart worked tirelessly to expose and bring awareness to the shark fin industry.