Final signature count: 1,352

1,352 signatures toward our 30,000 goal

California stands on the brink of a significant shift in marine animal welfare with the proposed California Oppose Cruelty to Octopuses (OCTO) Act. This legislation seeks to ban octopus farming across the state, protecting these intelligent and complex creatures from the cruelties of aquaculture practices that they are not biologically equipped to handle.

Why Ban Octopus Farming?

Octopuses are among the most intelligent creatures in the ocean. They have the ability to solve puzzles, use tools, and exhibit complex behaviors indicative of their sentience and advanced cognitive functions¹. In the wild, these creatures lead solitary lives, roaming freely and engaging in natural behaviors essential for their psychological well-being.

However, when placed in farming environments, octopuses face conditions that are starkly at odds with their intrinsic needs. They are confined in cramped spaces, subjected to high levels of stress, and unable to escape the proximity of other octopuses, leading to unnatural aggression and self-harm². The mental stimulation they require cannot be replicated in a farm setting, leading to a diminished quality of life and often, premature death.

Environmental Concerns

Beyond the ethical implications, octopus farming poses severe environmental risks. The concentration of waste, use of chemicals, and potential for disease present in these aquaculture setups can lead to nutrient runoff, which contributes to algal blooms and oxygen-depleted zones harmful to marine ecosystems³. Such practices not only disrupt local wildlife but can also have cascading effects on marine biodiversity and the health of our oceans.

California’s Role as a Leader in Animal Welfare

The OCTO Act represents a critical opportunity for California to lead by example in the global conversation on animal welfare and sustainable practices in the aquaculture industry. By banning octopus farming, California can prevent the inhumane treatment observed in other aquaculture operations and protect local environments from the detrimental impacts associated with intensive marine farming.

This legislation aligns with the state’s long-standing commitment to environmental stewardship and compassion towards animals. It reflects the values of Californians who advocate for ethical treatment of all living beings and recognize the cognitive abilities and sentience of marine life⁴.

Join Us in Supporting the OCTO Act

The time to act is now. We must ensure that the OCTO Act passes to prevent the establishment of an industry that exploits intelligent, sentient creatures and threatens our marine ecosystems.

Sign this petition and voice your support for a future that respects the intrinsic value and well-being of all marine life, fostering a healthier, more ethical approach to our interactions with the ocean.