Dr. Lark Finally Caves

The Beacon

Posted Thu, Jan 8, 2009 by emily

It's taken nearly a year of constant pressure, but we've finally convinced Dr. Susan Lark to sell cosmetic products containing squalene derived from olives rather than deep sea sharks. More than 15,000 of you contacted Lark, telling her it was unconscionable to sacrifice already at-risk shark populations for the sake of beauty.

First she claimed her product was okay because the sharks used were bycatch of the orange roughy fishery. When we pointed out the error in this logic, she then claimed the source was "sustainably fished" sharks from the Mediterranean. When it became clear that we weren't buying her excuses, or her beauty products, she finally agreed to change her product line. We are happy to report that the first new product is currently in development.

The new Congress has hit the ground running, with the introduction of the Shark Conservation Act (HR 81). This bill would require that sharks caught in all U.S. waters be landed whole with their fins still attached. We're asking you to contact your Representative and ask him or her to help ensure fast passage of this important piece of legislation.

We've started 2009 off on the right foot with our Dr. Lark victory and the introduction of the Shark Conservation Act- and you made it happen. Please keep the momentum going by taking action today in support of the Shark Conservation Act.