Greenland Shark: Biofuel in Greenland? Debates Continue

Greenland Shark for Biofuel? Greenland Shark Considered as Biogas Generator

Greenland shark has been considered by some as a potential source of biofuel in Greenland. However, environmental groups say there are too many unknown factors that make this option a bad idea.

Greenland shark inhabits in the North Atlantic Ocean surrounding Greenland and Iceland. They have a length of 11 to 16 feet and can weight 2,000 pounds.

According to local fishermen, Greenland sharks are abundant in the region, and are usually caught in trawlers during fishing operations. Instead of throwing away the sharks, they could be used to generate biofuel.

However, the International Union for the Conservation of Nature and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) opposed the plan for using Greenland shark as biofuel. "Not a good idea, not at all," said a WWF spokesperson, because there are too many unknowns.

The population of Greenland shark is largely unknown, contrary to anecdotal accounts from fishermen.

On the other hand, the Greenland sharks that are caught by accident are killed regardless.