Every year, November 21st is celebrated as World Fisheries Day to remind us of the vital role oceans play in our lives. It highlights the importance of fisheries and aquaculture in feeding millions of people and supporting livelihoods while urging us to protect marine ecosystems for the future.
Why Oceans Matter
Oceans are more than just a source of food; they play a vital role in maintaining the planet’s ecological balance. Phytoplankton in the oceans produce about 50% of the oxygen we breathe and act as a major carbon sink, absorbing large amounts of atmospheric CO2 and helping to combat climate change.
A Milestone in Global Production
The year 2022 saw a remarkable growth in fisheries and aquaculture. Global production reached 223.2 million tonnes, a 4.4% rise from 2020. Of this, 185.4 million tonnes came from aquatic animals and 37.8 million tonnes from algae. For the first time ever, aquaculture outpaced capture fisheries, producing 130.9 million tonnes, which accounted for over 51% of the total aquatic animal production.
Leading countries like China, India, Indonesia, Vietnam, Bangladesh, the Philippines, the Republic of Korea, Norway, Egypt, and Chile producing over 89.8% of global output. However, many African and Asian countries with great potential are not yet fully involved. With better policies, training, and investment, sustainable aquaculture can grow in these regions, creating jobs and improving food security.
The Lives of Fishermen
Fishermen play a key role in feeding the world, especially in coastal areas. Their work provides fresh, healthy seafood and is deeply connected to cultural traditions. However, their jobs are challenging and dangerous, with risks like harsh weather and unpredictable seas. Efforts like the Union Government’s initiative to install GPS on fishing boats have helped improve safety for fishermen. Additionally, the government helps manage fisheries by setting catch limits, banning harmful fishing practices such as bottom trawling, and creating protected marine areas. These measures ensure fish stocks are not depleted and ecosystems remain healthy.
Fisheries Support Millions
The fisheries industry is a lifeline for many. The FAO estimates 58.5 million people are directly employed in fishing, with 21% being women. Including workers in related activities, nearly 600 million people depend on fisheries for their income. Most of them are small-scale fishers and farmers in developing countries, highlighting the sector’s role in reducing poverty and supporting families.
Threats to Marine Life
Despite its importance, the ocean faces many challenges:
- Ocean Noise: Noise from ships, sonar, and underwater exploration disrupts marine animals like whales and dolphins, making it harder for them to find food and communicate.
- Climate Change: Rising sea temperatures are causing coral reefs to bleach, threatening 75% of reefs worldwide, while acidification is harming marine species.
- Plastic Pollution: Each year, about 8 million tonnes of plastic enter our oceans. This waste harms marine life, with over 90% of seabirds found to have plastic in their stomachs.
- Fishing Gear Entanglement: Animals like turtles, seals, and dolphins often get trapped in fishing nets, which can cause injuries or even death.
Illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing is another major issue. It undermines conservation efforts and puts the livelihoods of honest fishers at risk. Stronger rules and international cooperation are needed to tackle this problem and ensure fair practices for all.
A Sustainable Future
The way forward is clear: we must adopt sustainable fishing practices. Protecting marine biodiversity will ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy the benefits of healthy oceans. By investing in conservation, responsible policies, and community support, we can safeguard our oceans and the lives of those who depend on them.
This World Fisheries Day, let’s commit to protecting our oceans and building a future where marine life and human communities thrive together.
