Paul Watson, the renowned American-Canadian environmental activist, was arrested in Greenland on July 22, 2024, under an international arrest warrant issued by Japan for his opposition to whaling. After 149 days in prison, he was released on December 17, 2024. This case drew public attention, highlighting Watson's ongoing battle against illegal whaling and his commitment to protecting marine mammals.
Watson, co-founder of Greenpeace and Sea Shepherd, was in Nuuk (the capital of Greenland) for refueling, planning to intercept a new Japanese whaling vessel in the North Pacific Ocean. Watson has long been known for his active stance on marine ecosystem protection and his efforts to confront violators of international environmental standards.
In a 2015 interview, Watson emphasized the need to end industrial fishing on a global scale. He argued that the ocean is vital for life on Earth, producing half of the oxygen we breathe. Watson warned that since 1950, 40% of phytoplankton has disappeared, directly linked to the destruction of whale populations and other environmental issues.
He also called for a shift to plant-based diets, stating that livestock consumes a significant portion of the fish caught in the sea. This contributes to the depletion of global ecosystems and biodiversity. He stressed the importance of conserving biodiversity and the need to learn how to coexist with other species to prevent ecological collapse.
Watson’s message remains clear: if the ocean dies, humanity will face disastrous consequences. He continues to call for urgent action to protect marine ecosystems and ensure a sustainable future for the planet.