In the article "Whaling Profitable but Bad for Iceland's Image", Greenpeace exposed illegal trading of fin whale meet from Iceland to Japan. In recent weeks, Greenpeace has managed to stop the illegal transport of 140 kilograms of whale meat from Iceland. In an attempt to advocate for the protection of whales and save this endangered species, Greenpeace has been taking extensive efforts to intercede the trading of whale meat. The article, however, discusses the advantages and disadvantages of whaling for Iceland's economy. Those in favor of legalizing whaling claim that the hunting and processing of whale meat could provide 80-90 jobs in Iceland. In an opposing argument, whaling would take away from tourists attractions such as whale tours that currently provide 120 jobs already. Another argument in favor of whaling legalization is the overwhelming supply of fish that would result from depleting the number of whales in the water. The depletion of whales would result in larger quantities of cod, capelin, and haddock for Iceland's fisherman. But this argument has also been disputed by scientists who claim that this debate is simply bias towards the legalization.
After reviewing the Greenpeace website and learning their stance on the subject of whaling, I am in accordance that the ban on international trading of whale meat should remain. Despite the economic profits of trading whale meat, the fact still stands that whales are becoming an endangered species; over hunting of them could affect the balance in the food chain. Aside from this, it seems that every argument made for the legalization of international whale meat trading has been disputable. Although arguments claim commercial whaling could provide jobs and more revenue, it seems there is not enough evidence to back these statements. Whales are a key component to marine life in the Netherlands and their existence should be protected.
--Samantha Easter
