Thanks, Buzzworm, for listing Sylvia Earle’s recent talk at Warren Wilson College [“‘Living Legend’ Oceanographer to Visit Warren Wilson,” April 25]. Getting to hear a world-renowned oceanographer such as Dr. Earle was an incredible opportunity.
It was fascinating to learn the story of orange roughy, who lived free from human intervention until about 30 years ago. Unfortunately for them, technology made it possible for humans to access their habitat thousands of feet below sea level. Since these fish breed late in life (beginning at 25 years of age) and live up to 150 years, their populations have dramatically declined and may never recover from the heavy fishing pressure they’ve experienced. Their story is by no means unique: Many species are suffering; some are on the brink of extinction.
An international group of ecologists and economists recently warned that the world will run out of seafood by 2048 if steep declines in marine species continue at current rates. Dr. Earle’s assessment of the state of the oceans was even bleaker. She pulled no punches in explaining that man’s callous disregard for marine life has brought the future of ocean life to the brink. She believes that we have, perhaps, a 10-year window of opportunity to save the oceans.
Dr. Earle has referred to fish as “our fellow citizens with scales and fins.” In The New York Times Magazine, she was quoted as saying, “I never eat anyone I know personally. … I wouldn’t deliberately eat a grouper any more than I’d eat a cocker spaniel. They’re so good-natured, so curious. You know, fish are sensitive, they have personalities, they hurt when they’re wounded.”
Whether or not you share Dr. Earle’s ethical concerns, those concerned about the fragile state of our environment should embrace a moratorium on eating fish before our oceans collapse. Visit www.fishinghurts.com to learn more.
— Stewart David
Asheville
i, personally, only breath filtered air, because, once, when i was in a deep state of meditation, a carrot talked to me.