15 Outstanding Shark Conservation Groups You Can Support

Sharks, the ocean’s apex predators, play an important role in maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems. Numerous dedicated shark conservation groups and charities have developed to assure their existence and the health of our oceans, driving efforts to protect and conserve these amazing creatures. Shark conservation organizations are at the forefront of the effort to conserve sharks from the myriad hazards they face, from campaigning for better laws and regulations to undertaking cutting-edge research.

In this post, we will look at the important work done by shark non-profit organizations around the world. Discover how these organizations work tirelessly to protect sharks’ futures through research, education, and policy reform. Furthermore, we’ll go through practical methods you can get engaged and help shark conservation, whether through donations, supporting adopt-a-shark programs, raising awareness, or participating in volunteer programs.

Let us delve deep into the realm of shark conservation, studying the remarkable work of these groups and emphasizing the multiple ways in which you can help conserve these incredible creatures and their ocean environments.

1. Shark Trust

The Shark Trust was created in 1997 by a group of divers and marine biologists worried about shark populations in the United Kingdom. Since then, the organization has grown to become one of Europe’s largest shark conservation organizations.

The Shark Trust promotes policies and actions that safeguard sharks and their ecosystems, such as the establishment of marine protected zones and the prohibition of damaging fishing techniques. In addition, the group conducts research and teaching projects to enhance awareness of the importance of sharks in the marine ecosystem.

The Shark Trust has a long history of effective shark conservation activism, having successfully lobbied for various shark-protection measures in the UK and elsewhere.

If you would like to support this shark conservation group, donations can be made through the Shark Trust’s website, and supporters can get involved by signing petitions and contacting lawmakers to lobby for shark conservation policies.

2. Saving the Blue

Saving the Blue is an organization dedicated to the recovery and restoration of various threatened marine species while fostering a connection between people and ocean wildlife. They strive to promote green and sustainable living through education and outreach initiatives conducted both in person and online. Their advocacy focuses on teaching the public about the benefits of environmentally-friendly choices, waste reduction, resource utilization, and healthy living.

This shark organization emphasizes its commitment to giving back to the local community by supporting hotels, restaurants, individuals, and engaging in activities such as cleaning local beaches, visiting schools, and offering eco-friendly gifts to educate and inspire others.

Supporting Saving the Blue can be done in various ways, including financial gifts, shark and ray adoptions, research equipment donations, and buying shark-inspired gifts. The organization takes pride in inspiring and coaching a generation of ocean advocates through hands-on, in-field research activities. They offer week-long, science-based expeditions where guests can actively participate in their conservation efforts.

If you love the idea of being able to track sharks, Saving the Blue also has a collaboration with Fahlo where you can buy a bracelet with a real shark to track. A portion of the proceeds from The Voyage Bracelet is donated to Saving the Blue. (Use the code: DIVERBLISS20 to get a discount on your shark tracking bracelet.)

3. Shark Conservation Fund

The Shark Conservation Fund (SCF) is a collaborative initiative formed by philanthropists dedicated to addressing the global crisis facing sharks and rays. SCF’s history stems from a recognition of the urgent need to halt overexploitation, prevent extinctions, reverse population declines, and restore imperiled species through strategic grant-making. SCF works at local, national, and international levels, strategically investing in projects that can make a significant impact in preserving sharks and rays worldwide.

Notable achievements of the Shark Conservation Fund include supporting projects that align with their three core objectives: ensuring effective regulation of the global trade of shark and ray products, preventing the extinction of the most imperiled species, and combating unsustainable fishing practices. By focusing on these core objectives, SCF has contributed to the development and implementation of regulations to curtail the trade of shark and ray products, aided in the conservation of critically endangered species, and promoted sustainable fishing practices globally.

Supporting the Shark Conservation Fund allows individuals to contribute to a comprehensive and strategic approach to shark and ray conservation. By backing SCF, donors can actively participate in the efforts to protect these vulnerable species, prevent extinctions, and promote sustainable practices in fishing and trade. Through their grant-making initiatives and collaborative approach, SCF provides a valuable platform for pooling resources and expertise to drive positive change for the world’s sharks and rays.

4. The Shark Research Institute

The Shark Research Institute (SRI) is a pioneering nonprofit scientific research organization focused on shark conservation. Established in 1991 in Princeton, New Jersey, USA, SRI holds the distinction of being the first shark conservation organization in the United States. Over the years, they have expanded their operations, with field offices located in various states within the US and internationally across Australia, Canada, Ecuador, Honduras, India, Mexico, Mozambique, Seychelles, South Africa, and the United Kingdom.

Shark Research Institute’s core approach revolves around utilizing rigorous, peer-reviewed scientific research to educate and protect sharks. They firmly believe that science can provide the necessary knowledge to guide governing bodies and society towards conservation policies that ensure the sustainability of all shark species.

This shark conservation organization engages in a wide range of projects, including visual and satellite tracking, behavioral and DNA studies, environmental advocacy, publication of scientific works, and public education. Shark Research Institute actively participates in conservation efforts at CITES, the primary international venue for conservation treaties, advocating for shark protection.

Their research has provided critical insights into shark conservation, influencing policy decisions and shaping public perception. By supporting Shark Research Institute, individuals can contribute to the advancement of scientific knowledge about sharks, promote evidence-based conservation policies, and help protect these apex predators.

Learn more about sharks by reading these 35 Fun Facts About Sharks.

5. Shark Research Unit

Based in South Africa, The Shark Research Unit is a devoted shark and marine research organization. They concentrate their efforts on two priority areas: Aliwal Shoal and Mossel Bay, with a devoted team of shark experts. Through strategic alliances with marine scientists, graduate students, ecotourism businesses, and academic institutions, the institute’s history is anchored on conducting and advancing innovative shark research, conservation, and education activities.

Beyond research and conservation, their activism includes fostering a new generation of shark scientists, experts, and enthusiasts. They do this by offering expert-led shark edu-tours, outreach initiatives for students, and internships in great white shark research. They help to increase awareness and promote a deeper knowledge of the significance of shark protection by actively involving people of all ages.

The Shark Research Unit has made significant contributions to great white shark scientific research, particularly in Mossel Bay, where they have carried out in-depth investigations and data collection. Their research has provided important insights for great white shark conservation by shedding light on the behavior, ecology, and population dynamics of these animals. The Shark Research Unit is a key player in furthering shark conservation efforts in South Africa and encouraging public involvement through its work in education, research, and outreach.

Supporting the Shark Research Unit enables people to support continuing activities for shark research, habitat conservation, and education. By contributing to their work, people can encourage the next generation of shark advocates and scientists while also helping to conserve and preserve these magnificent species.

6. Shark Alliance

The Shark Alliance was founded in Europe in 2006 with the goal of campaigning for an EU Shark Action Plan and addressing loopholes in the EU’s shark finning ban. The collaboration, led by The European Elasmobranch Association, The Pew Charitable Trusts, Project Aware, and Shark Trust, aimed to end the wasteful practice of plucking shark fins and abandoning the rest of the body at sea. The Shark Alliance reached a critical milestone in 2009 when the EU agreed a Plan of Action for Shark Conservation and Management, setting the groundwork for considerable improvements in shark fishery management and protection legislation.

After years of hard work and difficult political maneuvering, the alliance achieved another critical goal in 2013. The European Parliament and Council of Fisheries Ministers decided on a policy requiring all sharks taken in EU waters or by EU vessels anywhere in the world to be landed with their fins naturally attached, with no exceptions. These achievements have cemented the EU’s status as a world leader in shark protection.

While the Shark Alliance campaign was a success, member organizations continue to strive to promote science-based shark conservation and management in the EU and around the world. Individuals who contribute to the Shark Alliance can help to safeguard sharks and lobby for their conservation. Individuals can help assure a sustainable future for sharks and contribute to the preservation of marine ecosystems by supporting their efforts.

7. Shark Allies

Shark Allies is a non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation and protection of sharks and rays. Shark Allies, which was founded in Hawaii in 2007 and was later incorporated in California in 2014, focuses on taking action to counteract the harmful overfishing of sharks on a global scale. With considerable expertise in the field, performing research projects, engaging in film productions, and introducing people to sharks through dive experiences on Oahu’s North Shore, the organization grew steadily and organically over the years.

One of Shark Allies’ significant accomplishments was their participation in the development of the world’s first shark fin trade ban legislation in 2010. This legislative triumph not only aided shark conservation efforts, but also cleared the door for comparable restrictions on the trafficking of elephant ivory and rhino horn. Since then, their work has spread throughout the region, with ongoing activities focused at lowering shark products, safeguarding sharks and their habitats, and promoting the importance of sharks in their natural settings.

Supporting Shark Allies allows folks to contribute to their critical advocacy work while also joining the shark protection movement. Through classroom lectures, events, documentaries, media outreach, and a social media presence, the organization actively engages in public education. Individuals who support Shark Allies can help increase awareness, create conservation tactics, and empower the shark conservation movement. The group feeds on the passion and enthusiasm of their hardworking volunteers, knowing that collective participation is critical for accomplishing meaningful change for sharks.

8. Shark Advocates International

Shark Advocates International (SAI) is a non-profit project of The Ocean Foundation that has been at the forefront of shark conservation for nearly two decades. Founded by Sonja Fordham, a renowned advocate and leader in the field, SAI is dedicated to protecting some of the ocean’s most vulnerable and valuable creatures – sharks. Their mission is to advance science-based conservation policies at the local, national, and international levels through collaboration with diverse organizations and decision-makers.

SAI focuses on advocating for science-based policies to protect endangered shark species and closely related rays, as well as to limit fishing and trade and strengthen bans on the practice of shark finning. They work tenaciously in challenging policy arenas to defend existing safeguards and promote new measures that are urgently needed. The organization excels at building support among various stakeholders, including conservation groups, scientists, diving associations, animal welfare organizations, and fishermen, and effectively appeals to governments on behalf of coalitions.

Through their accurate and persistent communication efforts, SAI raises awareness about the challenges faced by sharks and mobilizes public concern into concrete, long-lasting conservation actions. Supporting Shark Advocates International allows individuals to contribute to their impactful advocacy work, ensuring the preservation of these magnificent creatures and the marine ecosystems they inhabit. With their extensive experience and expertise, SAI continues to be a leading voice in shark conservation, making a tangible difference in policy development and implementation.

9. Rob Stewart Sharkwater Foundation

The Rob Stewart Sharkwater Foundation is dedicated to safeguarding sharks, ecosystems, and oceans. Founded in honor of Rob Stewart, a renowned filmmaker and conservationist, the foundation raises awareness about the challenges faced by sharks and the marine environment through its Fin-Free and Shark Free campaigns, inspiring action and positive change.

The foundation’s advocacy focuses on educating communities worldwide, providing the tools necessary to engage and inform others about the importance of shark conservation. Rob Stewart firmly believed in the power of individual action to make a difference and emphasized that conservation is crucial for preserving human life on Earth.

Notable achievements of the Rob Stewart Sharkwater Foundation include the production and release of influential documentary films like “Sharkwater” and “Sharkwater Extinction.” These films shed light on the critical issues surrounding sharks and their role in maintaining the health of our oceans.

By supporting the foundation, individuals can contribute to the preservation of sharks, ecosystems, and oceans, helping to raise awareness, educate communities, and inspire meaningful action towards sustainable conservation practices.

Learn about the Top 15 Coolest Types of Sharks in the World that needs to be protected.

10. Bite Back

Bite-Back is a well-known UK organization that, since its inception in 2004, has been at the forefront of shark and marine conservation. Their principal purpose is to reduce overfishing and overconsumption of wild sea fish, with a specific emphasis on keeping Britain shark fin free.

Bite-Back is an advocacy organization dedicated to educating the public about the environmental consequences of overfishing and influencing popular opinion of sharks. They work to end the selling of sharks and other endangered marine creatures in stores and restaurants, persuading retailers to prioritize conservation before profit. Bite-Back also aims to inspire compassion for the marine environment and enable people to take action.

Bite-Back’s notable successes in shark conservation include effective campaigns and projects that have raised awareness about shark risks and generated changes in public attitudes. They have made substantial headway in persuading businesses to remove shark goods from their shelves and menus, helping to the march toward a shark-fin-free Britain.

Individuals can help Bite-Back by donating to their work to stop overfishing, protect sharks and marine ecosystems, and advocate for sustainable practices. Individuals can help preserve marine biodiversity and promote a more responsible attitude to eating wild seafood by donating to Bite-Back.

11. Shark Guardian

Shark Guardian is a UK Charity established by professional divers, shark researchers, and educators Brendon Sing and Elizabeth Ward-Sing. The group works all over the world, undertaking campaigns, research projects, and expeditions in places including the United Kingdom, Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.

Through teaching, research, and conservation projects, Shark Guardian’s primary goal is to enhance shark conservation and protect the natural environment. They acknowledge sharks’ important role in sustaining healthy oceans, but also the alarming rate at which these species are being killed as a result of human activity.

Shark Guardian is actively involved in a variety of projects and cooperation with conservation organizations all around the world in order to conserve sharks and protect the oceans. To enforce conservation efforts, they focus on increasing awareness, conducting educational programs, and funding scientific research.

The organization gives in-person and online presentations to schools, dive communities, and public events with the goal of increasing shark awareness and understanding. They also contribute to shark research by collaborating with institutions, taking part in citizen science projects, and funding picture identification study for species such as whale sharks and zebra sharks.

Individuals can help Shark Guardian‘s work in shark conservation, education, and research by donating to them. Among the organization’s significant accomplishments include global campaigns, spearheading conservation petitions, and giving educational tools to communities all around the world. Furthermore, they provide shark trips that combine teaching, research, and ethical diving methods, providing a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience and appreciate these wonderful creatures in their natural environment.

12. Shark Savers

Shark Savers, now known as WildAid’s Shark Savers Program, is a prominent shark conservation organization with a history rooted in impactful advocacy. The organization’s primary focus is persuading consumers to make ethical choices by refraining from purchasing illegal or unsustainable wildlife products, such as shark fin soup. They also encourage individuals to adopt transportation and food choices that reduce climate change impacts.

In addition to their consumer-focused campaigns, Shark Savers builds community support for conservation initiatives on the ground and utilizes innovative technologies to combat shark finning and illegal fishing, thereby safeguarding marine ecosystems.

One of their notable achievements has been the successful persuasion of businesses to refrain from serving shark fin soup through the Global Shark Pledge. This pledge has been widely adopted by numerous airlines, shipping companies, restaurants, and hotel chains, significantly contributing to the reduction in demand for shark fin products.

Supporting Shark Savers allows individuals to actively participate in efforts to combat illegal wildlife trade, protect marine biodiversity, and promote sustainable practices that benefit both sharks and the health of our planet.

13. Shark Angels

Shark Angels is a shark conservation organization that aims to transform fear into fascination and passion into action. With a global network of Shark Angels, they focus on areas where they can make a real difference for sharks, the oceans, and the planet. Through leading by example, they inspire others to take action and protect the future of sharks and the environment.

The organization’s advocacy efforts encompass various programs and campaigns. They strive to demystify shark science through their Shark Science communications, advocate for stronger laws and regulations to protect declining shark species, and work towards ending the shark fin trade.

They also support shark scientists in their research, provide educational presentations on sharks to audiences worldwide, promote sustainable shark-safe choices for consumers, and offer unique travel experiences to learn about sharks in their natural habitats while supporting eco-tourism.

Supporting Shark Angels allows individuals to join a global network of passionate advocates dedicated to protecting sharks and the oceans. By supporting their campaigns, educational initiatives, and research efforts, individuals can contribute to the conservation of sharks and help ensure a sustainable future for these magnificent creatures and the marine ecosystems they inhabit.

14. Shark Steward

Shark Stewards is an organization dedicated to eliminating the global shark fin trade through education and policy change. Their advocacy efforts span from the United States to Asia, with a particular focus on major import and consumption hubs such as Malaysia, Singapore, and China.

The organization works tirelessly in the policy realm to combat overfishing of sharks and rays at the state, national, and international levels. They advocate for shark trade bans, increase fisheries management measures in California, and actively participate in fisheries management organizations and international treaties to reduce the impact on global shark populations.

Shark Stewards’ data, reports, and comments have influenced decisions by key organizations like the US National Marine Fisheries Service, Pacific Fisheries Regional Management Council, United Nations Regional Fisheries Management Organizations, and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) to protect sharks in national and international waters.

Supporting Shark Stewards allows individuals to contribute to their crucial efforts in combating the shark fin trade, advocating for stronger fisheries management, and promoting the establishment of marine protected areas. By supporting their work, individuals can help protect shark populations and the health of our oceans for future generations.

15. Bimini Biological Field Station Foundation

The Bimini Biological Field Station Foundation (BBFSF), established in 1990 by Dr. Samuel Gruber, is a nonprofit organization located on the island of South Bimini, Bahamas. They are dedicated to advancing the understanding of sharks and rays and their ecological role through cutting-edge field and laboratory research. Their research spans various disciplines, including molecular and behavioral ecology, physiology, conservation, and sensory biology, with the aim of unraveling the biology of these fascinating marine creatures.

One of their primary goals is to educate and train future scientists by offering opportunities for students to design and conduct research projects at the undergraduate and graduate levels. They also provide voluntary training as interns, allowing students to gain valuable field experience and skills.

Additionally, the Bimini Biological Field Station Foundation actively works to enhance conservation and awareness by sharing their research findings with the public through facility tours, talks, documentaries, social media, and various forms of media, as well as disseminating scientific knowledge through peer-reviewed journals, conferences, and reports. The year-round operation of the Bimini Biological Field Station provides a platform for students, visitors, and scientists to learn about sharks and contribute to their conservation efforts.

Supporting the Bimini Biological Field Station Foundation allows individuals to contribute to important scientific research and conservation efforts focused on sharks and rays. The support of generous donors enables them to continue their long-term research initiatives and make significant contributions to the conservation of various elasmobranch species.

Shark conservation groups are at the forefront of protecting these incredible creatures and our oceans. Their tireless efforts require support from individuals like you. By contributing to and raising awareness about shark organizations, we can make a meaningful impact on the conservation of sharks. Join the cause, support these dedicated groups, and help secure a sustainable future for sharks and the marine ecosystems they call home. Together, we can make a difference.