4Ocean – Vaquita

Vaquita porpoises live in one tiny corner of the ocean known as the Gulf of California. Nicknamed the panda of the sea for the distinct dark marks around their eyes and mouth, these porpoises are the smallest and most endangered cetacean in the ocean.

Nearly one in five vaquitas perish after becoming entangled in plastic gillnets. Overfishing of the totoaba fish is the main reason why vaquitas are so critically endangered today. The totoaba is also critically endangered so international trade has been banned. However, continued demand for their swim bladders, which can sell for $4,000 a pound, has led to illegal fishing operations in the vaquitas habitat.

With as few as 10 vaquitas left, researchers say its possible for these porpoises to go extinct in our lifetime. We cannot afford to have even one more of these animals become entangled in plastic fishing gear. Their story is just one more heartbreaking example of why an urgent and proactive solution to plastic pollution and other man-made threats is crucial to the future of this planet.

FEATURES

• Cord made from 100% post-consumer recycled plastic bottles, including less than 5% reclaimed ocean plastic
• Clear glass beads made from 100% post-consumer recycled glass bottles, including less than 5% reclaimed ocean glass
• Stainless steel 4ocean charm
• Hand assembled in Bali
• Unisex, waterproof design
• Adjustable from 2 to 5 in diameter