Australia: Tasmania's salmon industry detonates underwater bombs to scare away seals, but at what cost?

The article highlights the concerns surrounding the expansion of Tasmania's A$1 billion farmed salmon industry, which aims to double by 2030, as noted by Richard Flanagan's new book, Toxic. The industry's practices, particularly the use of 'cracker bombs' or underwater explosives to deter seals, have been criticized for their potential harm to marine life. Despite the industry's assertions that these measures are necessary to protect both fish and human divers, research indicates that they can cause significant injuries to seals and disturb other marine life. The lack of strict regulations and the expansion plans, amidst failing environmental laws, have led to calls for more stringent oversight and greater public involvement in decision-making. The article also discusses the industry's history, its economic significance, and its defense by the Tasmanian Salmonid Growers Association, which represents the three major producers.