The proposed sinking of the SS United States has generated significant debate, with campaigners asserting that the ship constitutes a unique element of maritime heritage that warrants preservation.

The vessel, formerly the fastest transatlantic liner ever constructed, has been the focus of redevelopment initiatives for several years. Recently, proposals have surfaced to deliberately sink the ship to establish an artificial reef and diving attraction.

Plans to expand shipping access at Port Everglades have been set back after the US Army Corps of Engineers withdrew its state permit application for a dredging project that critics said could damage adjacent reef systems.

The proposal had caused concerns among scientists and conservation groups due to its proximity to coral habitats along Florida’s southeast coast, including areas supporting threatened species.

“The US is the seventh worst country for killing sharks,” Abernethy says, founder of Wildlife VOICE and a pioneer of cageless shark diving. “Florida alone kills 1.1 million sharks a year, even though we’ve banned the fin trade.”

It is a shocking revelation. Many assume shark fin soup is a distant problem, tied to cultural traditions in parts of Asia. But Abernethy sets the record straight: America is deeply entangled in the global supply chain that fuels the demand for shark fins. And the result? A freefall in shark populations, driven by prestige, tradition and profits.

Update 14 Oct: 

The long-standing rent dispute that hindered a Florida county’s efforts to convert the historic ship into the world’s largest artificial reef has now been resolved. The agreement to settle this dispute was announced on Friday. On Saturday, conservancy and county officials gathered at the Philadelphia pier, where the ship is docked, for a brief title transfer ceremony.

-- --

Florida has announced the establishment of the Office of Ocean Economy at Florida Atlantic University. This office will develop the state's blue economy sectors, including maritime industries, aquaculture, and tourism, with a strong emphasis on expanding and improving the recreational dive industry.

Various regions are home to species such as the green, leatherback, and loggerhead turtles. Due to their endangered or threatened statuses, these species are protected by law in most countries, which mandates specific conservation actions and monitoring.

Sea turtles face numerous threats, including habitat loss, human interference, and climate changes, jeopardising their survival and reproductive success.