Indonesia's controversial shark fin trade (Photo : Getty Images)
In a historic move and dramatic change of perspective, Air China announced that it will no longer carry shark's fin in its cargo fleet. The rule is due to the airline's decision to participate in the conservation of the endangered species.
The announcement from Air China came a week after the Chinese government banned the trade of ivory in the country to stop elephant poaching.
In a statement, Air China announced their move to support responsible and sustainable management of marine resources.
"We understand the community's desire to promote responsible and sustainable marine sourcing practices, and this remains important to Air China Cargo's overall sustainable development goals," the statement read.
Alex Hofford, a wildlife activist from the conservation group WildAid in Hong Kong, praised the airline for actively supporting environmental causes.
He said, "Scientists estimate that fins from up to 73 million sharks a year are used for shark's fin soup, with much of the trade in shark fin destined for China."
"It's a bold move, and this is likely to have a huge and lasting impact on shark populations and marine ecosystems worldwide."
The environmentalist said that Air China's move will hopefully influence other companies like FedEx to actively participate in stopping the trade of products from endangered animals.
There are 36 airlines which have now joined the ban globally.
FedEx, through their communications adviser Jack Pfeiffer, clarified that they "continues to comply with these laws and regulations, and our customers are required to do the same."
Last year, China started banning the shark's fin imports and issued data showing shark fin imports had declined by 82 percent between 2011 and 2014.
According to WildAid data, shark's fin consumption has already fallen from 50 percent to 70 percent in the previous year.
