Though installed to prevent shark attacks, shark nets function more as fishing gear, catching a variety of marine life and killing it. In particular, the nets instead of blocking sharks from reaching shore, lay far from shore trapping whatever happens to swim into it. Some affected marine life include dolphins, whales, turtles, harmless sharks, and rays. Marine organizations have determined that almost up to 90 percent of animals caught in shark nets, aren’t even sharks, which has sparked a rise in questions regarding if they are an effective safety tool at all. As a school surrounded by the ocean environment, with many ILS students frequently spending time swimming at beaches, learning this sad reality is unfortunate. The U.S. is not widely known for using shark nets, but other countries such as Australia and South Africa continue employing this controversial method year round.
“This is a problem I didn’t even know existed. I’ve always cared about the ocean, so discovering it is honestly heartbreaking,” shared junior Zoe Pazos
Shark nets originally were meant to serve the purpose of increasing the feeling of safety and reducing shark arracks for beachgoers, but they have become a different story. These nets do not stop sharks from entering areas with humans since they can easily swim around or under them. Research also reveals that the majority of animals they catch are harmless species that play essential roles in ecosystems. Recently, a tragic video surfaced online of a mother humpback whale and her calf found dead in a shark net in Noosa. Incidents like these show the true effects of shark nets and how they cannot differentiate between vulnerable wildlife and their intended targets. This event has emboldened communities rethink their outdated methods and protect their ocean life.
“The ocean is a large environment with many ecosystems filled with different species. It’s sad to see vulnerable marine life falling victim to something meant to protect it,” shared junior Jillian Martinez.
As more awareness is brought to the problem, many places have begun using more effective and safe alternatives that make both people and marine species safe. Methods such as drone surveillance and shark spotting programs allow shark activity to be monitored without harming defenseless species. Trained observers located on towers or cliffs have been proven to be effective at detecting sharks before anything occurs. Some beaches use SMART drum lines which is a device that helps locate and alert authorities when a shark is entering swimming areas.
“It’s a simple act that can help spark a real change in the world, wether its participating in a club at your school or an out of school cleanup, It can make a huge difference for a small part of the environment.” Shared Junior Camila Echevveri
Students can’t directly help this problem be solved, but they can play a meaningful role in protecting marine life. One of the easiest ways to help the surrounding ocean ecosystem is participating in beach cleanups. Miami organizations such as Debris Free Oceans and Clean Miami Beach often host clean up events in Crandon Park that are open to student volunteers. This action helps prevent beach debris from entering the ocean, and also increases awareness of what trash you are handling. School clubs and teachers can assist in educating students on how to protect our oceans. Students at ILS can coordinate with the environmental club to see what cleanups are being hosted on campus. Even small changes like avoiding litter and encouraging your friends to be more mindful can show your care for the ocean. By choosing to take action, students ensure that even the most vulnerable of God’s creations live in a safer environment.
