Operation SISO - Fighting to Protect the High Seas

Embark on a journey with Sea Shepherd during operation SISO, as they courageously work to safeguard marine life and the high seas from illegal fishing and harmful practices.

This fearless organization is making waves in ocean conservation, proving that dedication and direct action can create a lasting impact on foonhe protection of our planet’s invaluable marine ecosystems.

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Sea Shepherd is a non-governmental organization (NGO) that is dedicated to safeguarding marine life and combating illegal fishing practices. Led by passionate volunteers, Sea Shepherds works tirelessly to enforce the conservation of marine ecosystems and pressurize governments to adhere to international laws. Their mission encompasses protecting various marine species, such as octopi, large mammals, and other wildlife, while also conducting ocean clean-ups to combat marine debris.

One of the main areas of focus for Sea Shepherd is the High Seas, which is beyond the jurisdiction of individual nations and lacks adequate regulation for conservation. This regulatory gap allows poachers to engage in illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing without facing consequences. Sea Shepherd aims to address this global issue by supporting governments that lack the necessary resources and funding to effectively conserve the high seas.

Recently, Sea Shepherd launched The Sea Eagle, which underwent refurbishment in Malta, to spearhead the operation SISO campaign in the Mediterranean Sea. The operation’s primary objective is to fight IUU fishing, specifically within the Aeolian Archipelago. This ongoing campaign, initiated in 2018 with the assistance of artisanal fishermen, targets deadly fishing traps, illegal driftnets, and the confiscation of fish aggregating devices (FADs) scattered along the Italian coast.

The campaign is named after Siso, a sperm whale that tragically died due to entanglement in fishing driftnets and ingestion of plastics (ghost nets). Sea Shepherd, in collaboration with Italian authorities and the Coast Guard, is committed to fighting illegal fishing practices, with a particular focus on the widespread use of FADs in the Mediterranean Sea. FADs are deployed in the water using anchors attached to long synthetic ropes, with floats and buoys marking their location. These devices attract fish by providing shade and shelter, luring them into a trap that ultimately affects the natural balance of marine ecosystems.

Sea Shepherd is a dedicated NGO working to protect marine life, combat illegal fishing practices, and promote the conservation of marine ecosystems. Through initiatives like Operation SISO, they strive to address the regulatory void on the High Sea, support governments with limited resources, and raise awareness about the detrimental impact of activities such as illegal fishing and the use of fish aggregating devices. Sea Shepherd’s efforts play a vital role in safeguarding our oceans and preserving the diverse marine species that inhabit them.

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Sea Shepherd Conservation Society is a global non-profit marine conservation organization that was founded in 1977 by Captain Paul Watson. The organization’s primary mission is to protect and conserve marine wildlife and ecosystems by directly intervening against illegal activities and destructive practices in the world’s oceans.

Over the past four decades, Sea Shepherd has gained international recognition for its direct-action tactics and high-profile campaigns. They have successfully confronted whaling ships, exposed illegal driftnet fishing, and disrupted shark finning operations, among many other achievements. The organization operates a fleet of vessels, each crewed by passionate volunteers from around the world who are dedicated to defending marine life.

In addition to their direct-action campaigns, the Sea Shepherd also engages in research, education, and advocacy initiatives to raise awareness about the importance of ocean conservation and promote sustainable practices. Their ongoing commitment to protecting marine wildlife and habitats has made them a prominent force in the global fight to preserve our oceans.