THE shark fin trade has pushed a number of species of shark to the point where they may already be endangered. Add to this the barbaric manner in which fins are taken with live sharks thrown back into the water to die a slow, painful death and you have a situation where, if the shark were a land animal, all civilised countries would undoubtedly ban the trade.
American Express no doubt regards itself as a civilised company from a civilised country. However, its latest television advertisement in Hong Kong glorifies the shark fin trade and gives the impression that if you can afford shark fin and you carry an American Express card you have achieved prominence in this city.
If American Express showed the ivory trade or rhino horn trade in this light, there would rightly be a public outcry. There should be no less an outcry about these rapidly disappearing creatures and the cruel and wasteful manner in which they are slaughtered.
We appeal to American Express to withdraw this advert and apologise publicly for its incredible thoughtlessness. We also suggest that American Express card holders return them to demonstrate their outrage.
Sharks may not be everyone's idea of loveable animals, but they are important members of the marine ecosystem.
The American Express advert highlights our ignorance of the underwater world and the need to change our attitudes. Now, while there is still time - Just.
