A current exhibition at uShaka Marine World is challenging long-held views on shark safety with innovative, non-lethal solutions aimed at protecting both people and marine life.

Launched last month, “Shark Smart: How Do We Keep Sharks & People Safe?” marked the first phase of a national awareness campaign hosted by conservation NGO Wildtrust, in partnership with Shark Conservation Fund, the South African Association for Marine Biological Research, SharkSafe Barrier, Shark Spotters, Justice4Jaws, the Sharks & People Working Group and others.

The exhibition brought together government officials, scientists and ocean advocates to explore alternatives to traditional shark nets and drumlines, which have long been used along KZN’s coastline.

Wildtrust’s director of campaigns and communications Lauren van Nijkerk emphasised the importance of innovation to reduce harm to marine life.

“We focused on presenting both existing shark risk mitigation methods and potential non-lethal alternatives in engaging, educational and interactive ways.”

Among the showcased technologies are sonar systems, artificial intelligence software, drones and the SharkSafe Barrier, which mimics kelp forests and uses ceramic magnets to deter sharks.

The exhibition signals a shift towards co-existence, urging South Africa to lead in marine conservation while ensuring beachgoer safety. As the country grapples with balancing ecological responsibility and public protection, “Shark Smart” offers a hopeful blueprint for the future.

Currently, 13km of nets and 177 drumlines span 37 beaches, but their environmental toll is steep. More than 400 non-target marine animals, including dolphins, rays and turtles, are killed annually as bycatch.

Ballito’s Specialised Rescue Unit commander Quentin Power acknowledged the controversy surrounding the shark nets noting the environmental toll they take on marine life.

Also read: KZN shark net replacement claims identified as hoax

“Due to their effectiveness in limiting sharks to bathing areas, nets don’t discriminate. They trap anything and everything,” said Power.

Wildtrust’s senior scientist Dr Jennifer Olbers called for legislative reform and leadership in conservation.

“Our laws are outdated. Shark populations globally are under pressure, and two species – the largetooth and green sawfish – have already been categorised as locally extinct,” she said.

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