Hundreds of sharks saved: the buoy that’s changing the fate of sharks.

These magnificent animals have survived five mass extinction events, including the asteroid that wiped out the dinosaurs. However, it is a common misconception that all sharks are like the predators we see in movies such as Jaws, or Blue Hell. These creatures only cause between 5 and 10 fatal attacks globally. In fact, according to the International Shark Attack File in 2023, only 69 unprovoked attacks have been recorded, of which only 10 have been fatal.

Unlike this sea creature, other animals such as snakes kill approximately eighty thousand people a year and crocodiles one thousand. Ironically, we are more likely to suffer a domestic accident such as falling down the stairs or tripping while walking down the street than being attacked by a shark. It is paradoxical that we fear them so much, when the real dangers are usually much more mundane and closer.

Why is it vital to protect sharks?

Beneath the surface, beyond the predator myth, sharks sustain marine life. They help slow climate change by promoting oxygen production. Its deep dives feed phytoplankton, the planet’s green lungs. Sharks feed on other sick and weak marine wildlife, which helps maintain the health of the ocean. Protecting sharks ensures the balance of the marine ecosystem, on which we all depend.

Therefore, it is crucial to change our perception of sharks and recognize their vital role in the marine ecosystem.

Aware of this reality, at Zunibal we have been developing sustainable technological solutions for tuna fishing for almost three decades, always with the commitment to preserve the marine environment. Our innovation has not only transformed the art of fishing, but has also allowed us to take an active role in marine conservation. Through our technology and know-how, we have designed initiatives that reduce bycatch and promote ocean health.

Since January of this year, we have taken this commitment a step further by collaborating with Australian based company Future Oceans, and the Queensland State Governments Shark Control Program. The introduction of Zunibal’s “Catch Alert Buoy” system, has ensured the safe capture and release of hundreds of sharks along Queensland’s coastline in just 8 months, This is ensuring the shark populations welfare and contributing to the conservation of ocean ecosystems.

This effort not only increases beach safety by preventing sharks from approaching swimming areas where the Catch Alert Buoys are deployed, and protecting swimmers from potential attacks, but also provides scientists with a valuable opportunity to study the behavior of these magnificent creatures. By having continuous access to data on their migratory patterns and home ranges, we can develop more effective conservation strategies. This facilitates not only the long-term protection of sharks, but also the maintenance of balance in our oceans, benefiting the entire marine ecosystem.

Catch Alert Buoys incorporate advanced features and satellite communication that allow real-time alerts to be sent to authorities that a shark has been caught. The Catch Alert Buoy automatically sends text message notifications, including the time and location of the shark catch, allowing first responders to rush to the scene. Once there, the sharks are tagged, transferred to the high seas and safely released, ensuring their well-being and contributing to the scientific monitoring of the species.

Based on the ongoing results in Australia, Zunibal’s Catch Alert Buoy’s are proving to be effective and safe, both for the personnel using the system and importantly, for shark populations.  The use of Catch Alert Buoys wherever sharks are found, provides a significant positive impact for shark conservation globally.