What the Project Is About
This project centers on a powerful documentary film sequel called Sharkwater: Extinction, created by activist and biologist Rob Stewart. It follows up on his groundbreaking 2007 film, Sharkwater, which brought global attention to the plight of sharks. The new film aims to expose the shocking truth behind the ongoing massacre of shark populations worldwide and reveal the corporate and industry complicity driving this crisis. The goal? To wake the world up before it’s too late.
Main Benefits and Key Facts
Here are some eye-opening figures and facts that highlight why this project matters so much:
- When Sharkwater first came out, it reached over 124 million people.
- The original film helped spawn conservation groups and even influenced government policies.
- Despite this success, sharks are still being slaughtered—not just for their fins but also for cosmetics, pet food, and livestock feed.
- The seafood industry often disguises shark meat under names like “rock salmon,” “flake,” and “ocean whitefish” so consumers don’t realize what they’re eating.
- An estimated 150 million sharks are killed every year, but only 70 million are officially accounted for.
- The other 80 million? They’re hidden in everyday products—your makeup, fast food sandwiches, and pet food.
- Shark populations have plummeted by 90%, making this the greatest wildlife massacre ever known.
- The sequel film is racing against time; waiting four years like the first film would mean 600 million more sharks lost.
- A Kickstarter campaign has been launched to fund the project and is already over 70% funded with just 10 days left.
The Urgency Behind the Film
The original Sharkwater was a huge conservation success, but sadly, the problem has only gotten worse. Sharks aren’t just victims of finning anymore—they’re being exploited in ways most people don’t even realize. This sequel is about revealing the hidden truths and corporate scandals fueling this destruction. It’s a call to action, a plea to the world to pay attention before it’s too late.
How the Film Is Being Made
Rob Stewart is pushing hard to get this film out quickly. The first movie took four years to make, but the situation demands faster action now. That’s why the Kickstarter campaign is so crucial—it’s helping speed up production so the message can reach audiences sooner. The film promises to be a hard-hitting exposé that pulls no punches, shining a light on the multi-billion dollar industries profiting from shark extinction.
Related Initiatives and Community Engagement
While this film project is gaining momentum, there are other ways people can stay connected and involved. For instance, Philip recently launched a blog titled My Unexpected Guide; learning from cancer, sharing his personal wellness journey. Plus, local party websites like the Stroud Green Party and the new Cotswold Green Party offer platforms for community engagement and activism, encouraging people to stay informed and get involved in environmental and social causes.
Project Impact on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 14: Life Below Water – Protecting marine ecosystems and promoting sustainable use of oceans.
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – Highlighting the hidden use of endangered species in consumer products.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – Addressing ecosystem health and biodiversity loss linked to climate resilience.
- SDG 15: Life on Land – Raising awareness about wildlife conservation beyond marine life.
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – Mobilizing global support through crowdfunding and community involvement.
Why This Matters Now More Than Ever
The world is facing a wildlife crisis of unprecedented scale, and sharks are right at the heart of it. Their decline threatens entire marine ecosystems and, ultimately, human survival. This film isn’t just about sharks—it’s about exposing a hidden environmental catastrophe and the industries that profit from it. With the Kickstarter campaign closing soon, the time to support and spread the word is now. Because if the world waits too long, the consequences will be irreversible.
