The health of the world's whales is up for grabs next week as representatives from 89 countries on both sides of the issue -- pro whaling and pro whale protection -- gather for the 63rd annual meeting of the International Whaling Commission.
At the top of the agenda is whether to establish an ocean sanctuary for whales in the South Atlantic, waters that neighbor the Caribbean. Why any nation would vote against a haven for whales -- already facing serious human-caused threats, including noise, entanglement in fishing gear, and climate change -- defies logic.
Yet, four Caribbean island nations vote against protecting whales year after year -- even voting down a proposition that would be a blessing for whales and the region.
The Caribbean is the ultimate tourist destination for expert divers and novice snorkelers alike -- attracted by amazing coral reefs and an abundance of marine life, including whales. In fact, whale watching in the region is a rapidly growing and profitable industry.
Protecting whales in these waters means protecting the growing wildlife tourism market in the region. It just makes sense.
We'll be pushing hard to secure the sanctuary at this year's IWC, and we urgently need your help. Don't delay! Take action today to save whales.
