While humans rarely hunt penguins directly, our actions have a profound impact on their well-being through the depletion of their primary food source: krill. The large-scale commercial harvesting of krill for its rich omega-3 fatty acids has resulted in the undernourishment of many Antarctic species, including emperor and Adelie penguins, blue whales, and various albatrosses that rely on this vital component of the food chain.
Without krill, the entire Southern Ocean ecosystem is at risk of collapse, with penguins among the most vulnerable. Research indicates that industrial-scale krill harvesting poses one of the greatest threats to this ecosystem, with potential drastic reduction in penguin populations by one-third in the near future.
It’s crucial to recognize that humans do not depend on krill for omega-3s, as they are abundantly available in fish, nuts, and seaweed. We must prioritize conservation over commercial interests and marketing gimmicks. Spending on krill products does not contribute to health but rather to the devastation of penguin populations.
Inspired by the plight of these animals, I designed a model penguin standing on an ice floe with hanging anchors, symbolizing the heavy burden of human exploitation. This model serves as a reminder of the consequences of our choices on vulnerable species. When you print and share this model, use it as a tool to educate others about the human-induced threats facing Antarcticpenguins, and encourage them to consider the consequences of their consumer choices.
Thanks SpiderMaker for sponsoring the creation of this work
Design Software: SketchUp
Printer: UP+ & CR10
Printing Suggestion:
(ps. Because the accuracy on the printer is not the same. If the assembly parts are too loose or too tight, the parts may be reduced or enlarged to offset the assembly failure caused by the printer's tolerances.)
