The ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) recently conducted an awareness campaign in Kerala’s Ernakulam district to educate fishing communities about the impact of climate change. This initiative, part of the National Innovation in Climate Resilient Agriculture (NICRA) project, aimed to inform fisherfolk about the science behind climate change and its effects on fisheries, as well as adaptation strategies to safeguard their livelihoods.
Scientists from CMFRI engaged with residents of two major fishing villages in the district, explaining how rising sea surface temperatures are causing economically important fish stocks to migrate to cooler waters. This shift in fish distribution has implications for fish catch and poses challenges for fisherfolk. Additionally, higher temperatures are depleting oxygen levels in inland water bodies, endangering aquatic species and increasing their vulnerability to diseases.
During interactive sessions, members of the fishing communities raised concerns such as inadequate marketing facilities and low catch rates. In response, CMFRI took steps to address some of these issues by distributing ice boxes to fisherwomen to help preserve locally harvested fish, which have shorter shelf lives in warmer temperatures. Furthermore, the institute provided gillnets, cast nets, pots, and sea bass fish seeds to support the communities’ fishing activities.
By empowering fisherfolk with knowledge about climate change and offering practical solutions, CMFRI aims to enhance the resilience of fishing communities against environmental challenges. This initiative underscores the importance of collaborative efforts to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change on coastal livelihoods and ensure sustainable fisheries for future generations.
