Backing down under global pressure from environmentalists, Disney has decided to take the controversial shark's fin soup off its banquet menu - but will still serve it on request after educating customers on the threat to sharks.

In response to protests against its serving shark's fin soup at wedding banquets offered at the Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel, the theme park will give pamphlets detailing the environmental impact of killing sharks to customers who insist on having the soup.

``We have heard many opinions and have given the matter careful consideration,'' said Irene Chan, spokeswoman for Hong Kong Disneyland.

``But most importantly, [the dish] is an integral part of Chinese banquets in Hong Kong culture, and we strongly believe we should give choice to our guests.''

As with abalone and roast suckling pig, shark's fin soup is a traditional Chinese delicacy featured on most banquet menus.

Hong Kong Disneyland plans to serve the dish to newly-weds who request it at the Chinese-style banquets it offers when the park opens on September 12.

But environmentalists around the world are outraged, saying that consumption of the dish is responsible for a sharp decline in shark numbers worldwide.

They have accused Disney of being ``unethical''and have threatened a boycott of all things Disney.

Insistent guests will be handed information pamphlets, which will show how sharks are killed, how the fins are harvested and the environmental impact of killing sharks.

The information will be prepared in a manner ``suitable for a wedding,'' Chan said. ``We will give them an informed choice, and we fully respect their choices.''

She denied the move is a result of heavy pressure from environmentalists, and gave no indication of what dish will replace the pricey shark's fin soup on the menus.

According to Man Chi-sum, chief executive of local group Green Power which is preparing the pamphlet for Disney, the theme park consulted local green groups on their views on shark's fin soup two weeks ago.

Green Power is helping Disney voluntarily and has not received any fees, he said.

``We hope [Disney] will observe customers' reactions and consider not serving the dish entirely in the future,'' Man said.

``Any environmentalist would not want to see the soup served. But it is also important to have a discussion platform.''

The theme park giant has also stressed it will only source shark's fins from ``reliable and responsible suppliers'' that adhere to relevant international treaties.

But some environmentalists remain unconvinced.

Brian Darvell, a marine protection activist and a member of the South China Diving Club, described the idea of handing out pamphlets as ``ludicrous.''

``It does nothing for them. The message is contradictory,'' he said.

``It's like saying, `I have principles, but if you give me a lot of money I can break them.' The word for it is `prostitution.'''

The World Wide Fund for Nature , which is in discussions with Disney executives, said Thursday it could not comment while talks are underway.

sylvia.hui@singtaonewscorp. com