Overfishing threatens U.S. oceans. Learn 3 actionable steps every American can take to protect sharks, tuna, and coral reefs. Be part of the solution!
Shock Fact: 90% of global fish stocks are fully exploited or overfished (UN FAO). In the U.S., Atlantic cod populations remain just 10% of 1980s levels. But hope isn’t lost.
The Crisis in U.S. Waters
From Alaskan pollock to Gulf shrimp, America’s seafood demand strains marine ecosystems. Key threats:
- Bycatch: 1.5 million tons of unintended catch yearly (e.g., dolphins, sea turtles).
- Habitat Loss: Trawling damages seafloor habitats off New England.
- Species at Risk: Atlantic bluefin tuna, grouper, and North Atlantic right whales.
What’s Being Done?
- The Magnuson-Stevens Act
- U.S. law requiring science-based catch limits.
- Rebuilt 47 fish stocks since 2000 (e.g., Mid-Atlantic bluefish).
- Marine Protected Areas (MPAs)
- Like California’s Channel Islands or Florida Keys Sanctuary.
3 Ways YOU Can Help (Today!)
1. Choose Sustainable Seafood
- Apps: Download the Seafood Watch app (Monterey Bay Aquarium).
- Look For: “MSC Certified” or “Wild American Shrimp” labels.
- Avoid: Imported farmed shrimp (linked to mangrove destruction).
2. Support Local Fishermen
Why: Small-scale U.S. fishers use low-impact methods.
Where:
- Community Supported Fisheries (CSFs) like Louisiana Direct Seafood.
- Farmers’ markets in coastal states (Maine to Oregon).
3. Reduce Plastic & Advocate
- Plastic → Microplastics → Fish Stomachs. Use reusable bags!
- Petition Power: Back Oceana or NOAA campaigns to expand MPAs.
Success Story: The Atlantic Sea Scallop
After strict quotas and gear modifications, scallop populations rebounded by 500%—now a $600M industry supporting East Coast jobs!
Overfishing isn’t someone else’s problem. As Americans, our choices ripple from grocery stores to coral reefs. Eat local. Choose wisely. Speak up. Together, we can keep U.S. oceans thriving.
