Assignment Essay Example
Assignment Essay Example

Assignment Essay Example

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  • Pages: 1 (259 words)
  • Published: December 1, 2017
  • Type: Research Paper
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Whaling has been practiced since at least 3000 BC, involving the pursuit of whales for their meat and oil. This activity has provided sustenance and a means of collecting stranded whales for various coastal communities.

In the 17th century, organized fleets began industrial whaling, which led to competitive national whaling industries in subsequent centuries. The use of factory ships and whale harvesting in the first half of the 20th century resulted in unsustainable levels of whale catches. This was driven by advancing technology and increasing resource demands, causing annual whale kills to exceed 50,000 by the late 1930s. By the mid-20th century, stocks were depleted without replenishment.

In order to allow stocks to recover from overhunting, the International Whaling Commission (IWC) implemented a ban on commercial whaling in 1986. This moratorium effectively prevented hunted whales from

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becoming extinct; however, contemporary whaling remains a highly contentious issue.

The ban on stocks is a contentious issue, with pro-whaling countries (especially Japan) and anti-whaling countries/environmental groups holding opposing views. Pro-whaling countries argue for lifting the ban on stocks that have sufficiently recovered to allow limited hunting. Conversely, anti-whaling countries and environmental groups argue that whales are still vulnerable and that whaling is both immoral and unsustainable, necessitating a permanent ban.

Whaling has a lengthy history, originating in prehistoric times primarily in coastal waters. This practice played a significant role in shaping various cultures like Norway and Japan. While early whaling had minimal ecological impact, it may have affected freshwater ecology in the Arctic region. Modern whaling techniques gained momentum during the 19th century.

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