Fewer than 340 North Atlantic Right whales remain. Fishing gear entanglements are the leading cause of death and serious injury. These whales and others encounter vertical fishing lines (used for crab and lobster pots) as they feed and migrate along the U.S. and Canadian coasts.
As significant seafood purchasers with existing commitments to sustainability, Red Lobster and Whole Foods can be the heroes and help transition the lobster industry to whale-safe gear, i.e. gear that does not use vertical ropes. These companies need to expand their sustainability plans to include a commitment to purchase lobster from whale-safe gear.
By committing to only sourcing lobster caught with ropeless fishing gear, Red Lobster can protect these whales and help move the industry towards safer, ropeless fishing.
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Virginia Carter
Former Save America's Wildlife Campaign, Associate, Environment America
From buzzing bees to howling wolves, and from ancient forests to sprawling coastlines, our natural world is a gift that keeps on giving. Will you donate today to help keep it that way?