Target: Terje Aasland, Minister of Petroleum and Energy for Norway
Goal: Do not grant drilling permits in marine areas inhabited by vulnerable walrus populations.
Norwegians fell in love with a friendly walrus named Freya. Tragically, their love killed the animal. Crowds of people had taken to swimming with, throwing objects at, and otherwise getting into close proximity to the walrus. Rather than heed calls for better crowd control or to relocate Freya, government officials euthanized her instead. Unfortunately, marine biologists claim this incident is representative of a larger problem with Norway’s treatment of its sea life.
The most troubling example prior to the Freya incident could endanger the nation’s walrus populations as a whole. A few months ago, the Norwegian government opened up a whole swath of marine area for oil and gas drilling. One of the most prominent regions where new licenses will be granted is the Barents Sea: perilously close to where native walruses thrive.
These previously vulnerable populations are finally making a comeback, so the timing of this threat could not be worse. Sign the petition below to urge authorities to rethink their decision to once again put these beloved animals at risk.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Minister Aasland,
Much debate has arisen about the fate of Freya the walrus. While the decision to euthanize may have divided opinions, one fact is clear: Norwegians love and value these unique animals. How would they feel if they knew the extent to which the walrus population as a whole is being put at risk by new drilling in the Barents Sea?
Marine ecosystems are robust, but human activity can make them fragile and vulnerable. This nation has already invested decades into restoring walrus numbers to the point where they can thrive. Please do not throw away this progress and, in the process, create another national controversy.
Reconsider additional drilling permits that could once again endanger Norway’s cherished marine animals. Demonstrate that this nation is serious about protecting its sea-faring inhabitants.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo Credit: Sandy Wicks
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I am writing for the walrus who was a loving lady at 1600 lbs. The government killed her in spite of there being places they could have placed her. Instead they killed her. The reason? She became too friendly with people. Yet, apparently Norway kills for that reason. She did sink a few small boats but she remained a perfect lady and is terribly missed by the public who adored her. But there also seems to be a problem with Norway allow permits for oil drilling in the areas which support walrus communities. They may want to rethink that idea. I simply feel sorry for the lovely walrus who was killed for being too popular.