Japan’s Scientific Whaling
This summer, Japan announced plans to expand their "scientific" whaling program to include the harvesting of 50 Bryde’s and 10 sperm whales in addition to their annual catch of 100 minke whales. Both Bryde’s and sperm whales were heavily exploited in the past and current population statistics are unknown.
The International Whaling Commission (IWC) has since issued a resolution urging Japan not to continue with their plan, bringing the "scientific value" of their whaling into question. However, equipped with a new ship and fleet of catcher boats, Japan has decided to follow through with their new plan. Additionally, Japan pays for the IWC memberships of several Caribbean island states in an effort to possibly purchase their votes. They are currently seeking African states to support.
It was recently reported by the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society that the United States is considering trade sanctions against Japan until the Japanese whalers are again operating within the IWC recommendations. We urge you to consider writing your state representative regarding your opinion on this matter!