"A collaborative approach between aquaculture and small-scale fishing allowed for positive outcomes for both sectors," say Stanford researchers.
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Investments in the aquaculture industry can impact small-scale marine fishing, and how policy changes can support livelihoods, equity, and sustainability, according to a new research led by Stanford University.
The research team analyzed 46 diverse case studies from thirty countries to identify interactions that generate positive environmental, social, or economic outcomes. Also, those resulting in trade-offs and negative impacts for small-scale fishing.
"Many governments are promoting and investing in the development of aquaculture due to its enormous potential to support food security and livelihood goals," said Elizabeth Mansfield PhD, who led the research with her doctoral advisor, Stanford School of Sustainability Professor Doerr Fiorenza Micheli.
Therefore, co-author Mary Ruckelshaus, executive director of the Stanford-based Natural Capital Project, mentioned: "A positive example was seaweed cultivation in Alaska. Fishermen were involved in aquaculture development and could participate in seaweed cultivation during the salmon fishing off-season. A collaborative approach between aquaculture and small-scale fishing allowed for positive outcomes for both sectors."
To sum up, the study shows how access to resources, market interactions, and the supply chain, as well as risk factors such as diseases and climate change, could influence the outcomes of the interaction between aquaculture and small-scale fishing. Finally, it reveals strategies for decision-makers aiming to invest in both sectors.
