We can all do our bit to save the world’s fish stocks

 
Prince Charles
Hrh the Prince21 June 2012
WEST END FINAL

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It is too easy to believe that news on the state of fish stocks is all gloomy. Fortunately, there is a more positive story emerging.

Research conducted by my International Sustainability Unit reveals that, in many parts of the world, positive steps are being taken to establish a much more sustainable way of managing these vital, self-renewing resources.

In 2008, developing countries exported $27 billion-worth of fish. Fishing supports the livelihoods of more than 120 million people, and one billion people rely on fish for protein. So what many call an environmental problem is actually also an economic and social one. As long as there are fish to catch, millions of people enjoy job security and the social cohesion that comes from that.

And it could get better. The World Bank recently estimated that with better management an extra $50 billion a year could come from annual catches. So what needs to be done? Analysis by my team has shown that examples of better practice are underpinned by three broad factors.

First, they have all been implemented with the understanding that fish don’t exist in isolation from the environments that sustain them. There are many tools available to help manage fish stocks in ways that respect ecosystems: improving fishing gear, protecting spawing stocks, setting aside protected areas.

The second factor is well-designed rules for intelligent fishing that are enforced robustly. This includes proper monitoring and appropriate penalties to deter illegal fishing.

And, finally, there is sound economics. Good management of fish stocks is rewarded with secure and decent livelihoods for those who fish.

There are several ways this can be achieved. One would be improving labelling to encourage consumers to demand more sustainable seafood; another is long-term rights which give fishermen a stake in the future of their fishing grounds.

It would also make a tremendous difference if official subsidies really focused on supporting socially and environmentally positive activities. All too often, better ways of doing things are inadvertently penalised by subsidy systems.

There are many positive examples, from the US to Indonesia and from Iceland to Vietnam, where fishing communities are adopting the approaches needed to rebuild fish stocks. Stocks thus recover and communities reap the benefits.

How can these examples of best practice be spread? One powerful way is through a process I have employed for many years in other sectors — what might be called “seeing is believing”. This involves inspiring people to change their behaviour through showing them what is already being done. My hope is that my Unit can play a small role in this.

Genuine multi-stakeholder partnerships must urgently be pursued to introduce best-practice sustainable fisheries management to all corners of the world. Everyone can play their part. Consumers can become more aware of the choices they make and ensure their fish is sustainably sourced. When you consider the alternative — the continued decline of the world’s fish stocks — I fear we really have no other choice.

To see a free 25-minute version of the award-winning documentary about overfishing, The End of the Line, visit bluemarinefoundation.com.

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