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The preservation of marine life deps on sustnable fishing practices.
According to the Food and Agriculture Organization FAO of the United Nations, over-exploitation of our seas and oceans has left them depleted in fish. This alarming fact is highlighted by a recent report from FAO which underscores the importance of adopting sustnable fishing methods for ensuring both the survival of marine species and the continuation of fishing activities.
Sustnable fishing plays an essential role in safeguarding marine fauna and mntning the integrity of ocean ecosystems.
At first glance, peace prevls under the vast expanse of water. But behind this serene tranquility lies a disturbing truth - our oceans are shrinking. The World Wildlife Fund WWF reported in its 2018 Living Planet report that since 1950 we've removed approximately 6 billion tons of fish and other marine creatures from the seas, making it the leading menace to ocean wildlife.
The negative impacts of overfishing
Biodiversity loss also has adverse effects on the world's three billion people whose livelihoods dep on the wealth of oceans and coasts. It forces fishing fleets to venture far beyond their usual boundaries in search of more productive waters. These extensive voyages, however, introduce new challenges such as over-exploitation of other fishery grounds and territorial disputes, particularly off the African, Latin American, and south-east Asian coastlines - the continent with the highest level of global fishing activity.
Moreover, alongside the dwindling seas resources and lack of funding for poorer fleets, illegal fishing has been encouraged. This generates an estimated $36 billion annually, exacerbates marine ecosystem degradation and jeopardizes food security.
State of marine wildlife
FAO confirms that the intensification in commercial fishing activities has negatively impacted 33.1 of fish species considered commercially valuable, leaving them without time to recover between harvesting periods. For instance, FAO's report from 2018 highlighted that overfishing impacts more than 58 of fish populations inhabiting South-East Pacific and South-West Atlantic oceans; meanwhile, in the Mediterranean Sea and Black Sea, the figure exceeds 62.
The current state of global fisheries.
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Advantages of sustnable fishing
Sustnable fishing employs artisanal methods that offer social, economic, and environmental benefits based on FAO's Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries. Some key advantages are outlined below:
Protecting marine life
Sustnable fishing practices respect ocean ecosystems by adapting to fish reproductive rates to ensure the survival of all species.
Selective capture methods
Sustnable fishing opposes indiscriminate catches of fry, angered species or those without commercial value.
Minimizing waste
In sustnable fishing, every part is used, for instance, by turning bycatch into fishmeal to reduce food wastage.
Contribution to food security
Small-scale sustnable fisheries account for 66 of all catches directly destined for consumption.
Employment creation and responsibility
Sustnable artisanal fishing provides jobs for 90 of the global fishing industry workforce and supports small fishing communities' development.
Reduced pollution
Sustnable fishing produces less waste, minimizes energy usage and reduces chemicals harmful to the ozone layer.
Certification of sustnable catches
International standards like the Marine Stewardship Council MSC determine if fisheries are being sustnably managed.
Destructive fishing is opposed to sustnable practices. This involves more aggressive methods such as trawling, prioritizes productivity over environmental protection and only uses 60 of each catch. Additionally, it relies on polluting gases like chlorofluorocarbons CFCs and hydrochlorofluorocarbons HCFCs.
Sustnable aquaculture
The global tr towards fish farming in coastal and inland regions has been growing rapidly. FAO advocates for a sustnable aquaculture strategy based on these principles:
Fr compensation
For the labor of aquaculturists.
Equitable distribution
Of costs and benefits among all stakeholders.
Wealth creation and high-quality employment generation.
A model that ensures food security
Environmental management that protects future generations.
Sustnable growth with proper governance structures in place for authorities and industry collaboration.
The world needs to prioritize sustnable fishing practices to ensure the health of our oceans. It's a crucial step towards preserving marine life, safeguarding biodiversity, and securing food sources for generations to come.
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Sustainable Fishing Practices Importance Marine Wildlife Protection Strategies Overfishing Consequences and Solutions Benefits of Sustainable Aquaculture Global Fisheries Sustainability Challenge Responsible Seafood Consumption Guidelines