Present-day whaling activities are perpetrated by several developed nations, including Japan. It should be noted that these are states which boast of high-literacy levels among the populace. It should also be noted that these states are members of international movements established to combat the fishing of whales and other deep-sea animals. This implies that they are fully aware of the dangers posed by engaging in this activity. There is a dire need for concerted efforts by all parties involved if this menace is to be dealt with conclusively.
It is evident that little can be done by ordinary citizens in order to reduce the magnitude of this practice. This is because policies that propagate these habits are enforced by governments established by these civilians. In addition, benefits accrued from this trade play a decisive role in ensuring the economic security of these residents.
It should be noted that ordinary citizens can participate actively in the reduction and subsequent elimination of this trade. In Japan, whale products are used as food supplements for school-going children. The residents may opt to incorporate alternative-food products into their diet. This will minimize the market and demand for whale meat. In addition, persons should desist from purchasing goods that are manufactured from whale products. Priority should be given to petroleum products in a bid to reduce the reliance on sperm oil from whales (Wursig & Thewissen, 2002). This way, citizens like me will contribute towards the reduction of this trade by eliminating profitability from this trade.
Identifying the interests harbored by nations participating in this trade is indispensable. This is because this knowledge will be beneficial when establishing the reasons for and methods of reducing this trade. It should be noted that several nations, including Japan, have cited academics as the main reason for their involvement in this trade. In the same breath, conservationists championing the preservation of these animals are fighting against the decimation of the ecosystem (Tellegen & Wolsink, 1998).
It is noteworthy, that both groups represent crucial ambitions of modern society. This underscores the importance of a compromise between these parties with regards to the causes they champion (Duncan, Jancar-Webster & Switky, 2008). As a result, enforcing regulations that protect the interest of both parties is paramount if the crisis is to be resolved conclusively. With this in mind, several spots should be designated as sanctuaries, in which whale fishing is disallowed. These zones should be suitable for the breeding and growth of young whales.
These agreements should also place an annual cap on the number of whales that can be fished by a nation. It should also establish a considerable time span between successive fishing expeditions. Most importantly, an age limit should be established in order to protect young calves and allow them to develop fully.
The United States can play an integral role in ending this menace. America can use its position as a superpower to coordinate the negotiation and signing of these treaties (Broder, 2010). In addition, the nation may also take part in enforcing the signed treaties. Most importantly, America can assume the frontline in enforcing and administering retribution for nations that ignore the provisions of these treaties. This way, control and a sense of direction are instilled in the whaling society.
References
Broder, J. (2010). The U.S. Leads New Bid to Phase out Whale Hunting. The New York Times. Web.
Duncan, R., Jancar-Webster, B & Switky, B. (2008). World politics in the 21st Century. New Jersey, NJ: Cengage Learning.
Tellegen, E & Wolsink, M. (1998). Society and Its Environment: An Introduction. Amsterdam: Overseas Publishers Association.
Wursig, B & Thewissen, J. (2002). Encyclopedia of marine mammals. California, CA: Gulf Professional Publishing.