As many as 20,000 dolphins are killed, most in which are sold for food even though dolphin meat is not considered a delicacy in Japan. Additionally, dolphin meat contains high levels of mercury therefore making it unsafe and toxic for humans to consume. Consumption of dolphin meat can cause mercury poisoning if eaten regularly and can also lead to birth defects if consumed by pregnant women. 4 In fact, a study was conducted on dolphin meat that showed the mercury levels to be ten to sixteen times higher than what is considered acceptable by the Japanese health ministry’s standards. There are currently no laws protecting any species of dolphin from being killed for consumption. 2 Many successful campaigns have brought awareness to this issue, and it has had a positive impact as the number of dolphins being killed is decreasing. Also, there has been a reduction in sales of dolphin meat as it is not a popular food in Japan. 3 The practice of killing dolphins is not only relative to Taiji. However, due to negotiations and agreements, other countries have stopped the practice of killing. For instance, in 2010, the Solomon Islands reached an agreement to stop killing dolphins, and in return, the islanders were given assistance in developing alternative fisheries, energy, and water supplies to improve their lives. This alternative does not harm the livelihood of the island, and is a more eco-friendly, more compassionate, and more viable and effective replacement to the very cruel act of dolphin killing.
Posted on: Sat, 21 Sep 2013 10:41:03 +0000
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