Hong Kong can and must help revive our depleting oceans

Victor Chu says despite the grave problem of depleting global fish stocks, rejuvenation is possible, starting with action to cut hefty subsidies and curb illegal fishing

A rescue package for the ocean is also one for the planet, and for humanity.

In Hong Kong the sea is all around us, and yet many of us remain unaware or unconcerned about the extent of the threats faced by the global ocean, and the responsibility we all have to address them. As one of the world's major fish trade and processing centres, and one of the top per capita consumers of seafood, Hong Kong's stake in and duty towards the ocean is particularly acute. Threats to the sea are direct threats to our way of life.

Yet we have allowed the health of the ocean to decline dramatically, and today it risks being pushed by human abuse and neglect to the point of collapse, with dire consequences. Every year we learn more about the immense, irreplaceable value of the ocean; how it helps generate the very air we breathe, is bearing the brunt of climate change, and provides millions of people with jobs, transport and, of course, food. But for how long? That is entirely up to us.

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