- Conservation Measures Poised to Be Economic Driver

A new analysis by the Australian Institute of Marine Science and the University 
of Western Australia concluded that in 2010, shark-related diving contributed 
$42.2 million ($73 million Fijian) to the economy of Fiji. Shark-diving 
operations generated $4 million that year for Fijian communities through 
salaries and local levies.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120418/DC90479) 

"This study clearly shows the role sharks and tourism play in the economy of 
Fiji," said Jill Hepp, manager of global shark conservation at the Pew 
Environment Group. "Fiji has a significant financial incentive to declare a 
shark sanctuary and solidify its reputation as one of the top diving 
destinations in the world." 

The study, "The Socio-Economic Value of the Shark-Diving Industry in Fiji," 
found that overall tourism activities in 2010 generated $558 million, 
approximately 18 percent of the country's gross domestic product (GDP), and 
that one in 10 tourists engaged in diving activities. In particular, diving 
with sharks has become more popular over the past several years; one dive 
operator in Pacific Harbour, on the island of Viti Levu, reported the number of 
divers at his business alone increased more than 300 percent, from 700 in 2004 
to 3,000 in 2010.

Shark diving is popular throughout Fiji, not just in Pacific Harbor. In Viti 
Levu, the country's largest island, profits totaled approximately $10.2 
million; and to the northwest, the island groups of Mamanuca and Yasawa 
generated $3.2 million.

"Our survey found that sharks are one of the most significant creatures 
tourists wish to see when scuba diving," said Dr. Mark Meekan of the Australian 
Institute of Marine Science and co-author of the study. "These animals are also 
an indicator of healthy coral reef ecosystems."

Diving with sharks is a growing business worldwide, with established operations 
found in at least 83 locations in 29 countries. Although places such as South 
Africa, the United States, and Australia have typically dominated this 
industry, shark diving is becoming an economic driver across the Indo-Pacific. 
In Palau, a recent study found that $18 million a year (or 8 percent of its 
GDP) is generated by this activity. In French Polynesia, diving with lemon 
sharks off Moorea Island brings in about $5.4 million annually. 

"This study quantifies what we already knew but could only guess up until now," 
said Michael Wong, chief executive officer of the Fiji Hotel and Tourism 
Association. "Living sharks add real value to our economy, so it makes sense to 
do everything we can to protect Fiji's sharks. A Fiji shark sanctuary is the 
strongest means possible."

"Protecting sharks is a win-win opportunity," said Rick MacPherson, director of 
Conservation Programs for the Coral Reef Alliance. "Living sharks provide a 
direct—and renewable—economic benefit for the people of Fiji. They also 
contribute to a healthy marine environment, which is paramount to Fiji's 
long-term social, cultural, and financial well-being."

At least 75 shark and ray species inhabit the waters of the Fiji islands. 
According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of 
threatened species, 66 percent of these species are globally threatened or near 
threatened. Although Fiji has implemented strong measures to safeguard the 
marine environment, there are no specific protections for sharks. 

Up to 73 million of these animals are killed every year primarily for their 
fins, which are used to make shark fin soup, a popular dish in Asia. Over the 
last two years, several countries—including Palau, the Maldives, Honduras, the 
Bahamas, and the Marshall Islands—have created sanctuaries and prohibited 
commercial shark fishing to protect these species in their waters. 

The Pew Environment Group is the conservation arm of The Pew Charitable Trusts, 
a nongovernmental organization that works globally to establish pragmatic, 
science-based policies that protect our oceans, preserve our wildlands, and 
promote clean energy. For more information, visit 
http://www.PewEnvironment.org. 

The Coral Reef Alliance (CORAL) is an international non-profit organization 
that unites communities to save coral reefs. By providing education, tools, and 
inspiration that help local communities become passionate stewards of their 
reefs, CORAL is building a worldwide network of well-managed marine protected 
areas and sustainable businesses that benefit both coral reefs and people. 
CORAL's innovative programs and effective strategies reduce local threats and 
build reef resilience to climate change. Visit http://www.coral.org.

Contact: Rachel Brittin
         +1-202-540-6312
         rbrittin@pewtrusts.org  

SOURCE:  Pew Environment Group

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