Japan Proposes Expansion of Commercial Whaling to Include Fin Whales
Amidst ongoing conservation debates, Japan's Fisheries Agency seeks approval to catch fin whales, citing population recovery and cultural significance.
- Japan's Fisheries Agency proposes adding fin whales to the commercial whaling list, expanding beyond the current three species.
- The proposal is based on findings of sufficient fin whale population recovery in the North Pacific.
- Public comment period set until June 5, with a decision expected in mid-June.
- Whale meat, once a staple post-WWII, has seen a decline in consumption, prompting efforts to revitalize the industry.
- Conservationists express concerns over the potential impact on fin whale populations and broader marine ecosystems.