CMS COP15: Momentum for the protection of angel sharks

One of the main focuses was on new listings and the reclassification of species into higher threat categories, including marine species. At the same time, issues such as the impact of deep-sea mining, the development of sustainable infrastructure (e.g. bird-friendly power lines or wildlife-friendly transport planning) and the global decline in insect populations continued to gain prominence.

In the marine sector in particular, so-called area-based management approaches have played a central role, namely the targeted protection of important habitats.

Angel sharks at the heart of international cooperation

For Eva Meyers, these discussions are closely linked to her own research. She has been studying angel sharks for years – a little-known but highly endangered group of marine creatures: “According to the IUCN Red List, angel sharks in the Mediterranean are classified as critically endangered, yet the existing conservation measures are still inadequate.” The main threats are overfishing, bycatch, habitat loss and climate change.

One key initiative for the conservation of angel sharks, which also played a role at the COP, is the Single Species Action Plan (SSAP) for the Mediterranean. It aims to strengthen cooperation between range states, promote the exchange of knowledge and improve concrete conservation measures on the ground, for example by identifying and protecting key habitats such as  Important Shark and Ray Areas (ISRAs).

Networking is key

A side event at the conference also highlighted just how crucial exchange and cooperation are for species conservation: the Angel Sharks & Friends reception, which Eva Meyers helped to organise. The aim of the event was to create a platform that brings together science, politics and nature conservation and fosters dialogue.

The focus was on the latest developments regarding the Action Plan for angel sharks in the Mediterranean. Participants were given an insight into the progress made and the relevant decisions taken by the COP. At the same time, the event provided an opportunity for discussion, networking and new collaborations.

The reception was organised by the SSAP Angelshark Mediterranean Working Group and supported by, among others, the Principality of Monaco and the WWF Mediterranean.

A milestone for the LIB

A highlight of the conference was the official inclusion of the LIB as a partner in the CMS Sharks Memorandum of Understanding for the Conservation of Migratory Sharks (CMS Sharks MOU), marking an important step forward in the international networking of research at the LIB.

One thing in particular stands out for Eva Meyers from the COP: many valuable insights into international cooperation, as well as the impression of a growing global commitment to the protection of migratory species.