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Ocean Headlines: October

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Crab pots on a wharf, boats in the background
Credit: Andyqwe

 

We know that to protect our oceans it is essential to access the latest marine news and learn about the most urgent issues and perspectives. That’s why, Oceana Canada has began sharing a monthly roundup of the top ocean news stories that are having the biggest impact here in Canada and around the world.

This month, media outlets continue to highlight the impact of climate change on warming oceans. Concerns were raised over the safety of whales due to entanglement in fishing gear and fines to increase to reduce illegal fishing.

Without a rope: Atlantic Canada putting whale-safe gear to the test
SaltWire, September 1
DFO has invested in many fishing gear research projects to find solutions for whale entanglements. Some of the companies involved have been testing gear for the last few years. The aim for Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) is to test and build technology for particular fisheries and ensure these fishing systems are compatible with each other. Read more.


Nova Scotia plans to increase fine for buying out-of-season lobster to $1 million
The Canadian Press/CBC News, September 7
To reduce unauthorized lobster fishing in southwestern Nova Scotia, the province’s fisheries minister intends to increase the maximum fine to $1 million for commercial buyers who are caught selling out-of-season lobster. Read more on illegal fishing, buying or selling out-of-season lobster. Read More.


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Climate change takes habitat from big fish, the ocean’s key predators
Associated Press/ Toronto Star, September 14
A recent study highlights that some large species, such as sharks, tunas and swordfish, could lose 70 per cent of their habitat by 2100. The rising temperatures of the oceans are of concern for these fish because warming makes their open-water habitats less suitable. The study shows that loss of habitat could largely remove some of the most important predators — and some of the most commercially important seafood species — from the ocean. Read More.


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Environment + energy leader: Report finds major emissions reduction potential in ocean-based climate solutions
Environment + Energy Leader, September 27
A new report from the High Level Panel for a Sustainable Ocean Economy (Ocean Panel) has found that the oceans are capable of delivering 47 per cent of the annual emissions reductions needed by 2050 to avoid catastrophic global warming levels. The report focuses on five ocean-based climate solutions, as well as phasing out offshore oil and gas extraction and emissions caused by ocean-based tourism. Oceana’s Chief Scientist, Kathryn Matthews, says, “As a scientist, it’s hard to stomach inaction, especially when we have some obvious solutions at hand. If world leaders are serious about tackling catastrophic climate change, the ocean is a clear place to start.” Read More.