Canadian Buddhist monks  have acquired eight boxes with live lobsters, intended to be sold to restaurants,  and released them into the ocean, CBC News reported.

The total weight of the released lobsters made more than 270 kilograms.

“Hopefully, we can find a spot where there are no cages waiting for lobsters,” one of the monks said.

According to him, the purpose is to cultivate compassion not just for the lobsters, but for all beings.

“We respect everyone's dietary choice, so we're not doing this to convert everybody to be vegetarians or vegans,” Buddhist said.

Before releasing lobsters, the monks held a 20-minute ceremony with prayers and hymns.