Journal of Fisheries Research

All submissions of the EM system will be redirected to Online Manuscript Submission System. Authors are requested to submit articles directly to Online Manuscript Submission System of respective journal.
Reach Us +44 151 808 1136

Opinion Article - Journal of Fisheries Research (2024) Volume 8, Issue 6

The Role of Fisheries in Achieving United Nations Sustainable Development Goals

Elena Petrova*

Department of Mathematics, Moscow State University, Russia.

*Corresponding Author:
Elena Petrova
Department of Mathematics
Moscow State University, Russia.
E-mail: ombamalu@uwc.ac.za

Received: 03-Dec-2024, Manuscript No. AAJFR-24-156645; Editor assigned: 04-Dec-2024, PreQC No. AAJFR-24-1566455(PQ); Reviewed: 18-Dec-2024, QC No AAJFR-24-1566455; Revised: 21-Dec-2024, Manuscript No. AAJFR-24-1566455(R); Published: 28-Dec-2024, DOI:10.35841/aajfr-8.6.240

Citation: Petrova E. The role of fisheries in achieving united nations sustainable development goals. J Fish Res. 2024;8(6):240.

Visit for more related articles at Journal of Fisheries Research

Introduction

Fisheries play a crucial role in advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to poverty eradication, food security, economic growth, and environmental sustainability. As a primary source of nutrition, income, and livelihood for millions of people worldwide, especially in coastal and rural areas, fisheries contribute directly to the achievement of several SDGs. However, the sector also faces challenges related to overfishing, habitat destruction, and climate change, all of which necessitate sustainable management practices to ensure that fisheries continue to meet global needs while preserving marine and freshwater ecosystems [1].

The first and most direct connection between fisheries and the SDGs is through SDG 1, which aims to end poverty in all its forms. In many developing countries, particularly small island developing states (SIDS) and least developed countries (LDCs), fisheries provide a vital source of income and employment. Small-scale fisheries, often managed through community-based systems, support the livelihoods of millions of fishers and their families. By promoting sustainable fisheries management, the sector can help reduce poverty by ensuring a consistent and reliable source of income and improving the food security of vulnerable populations [2].

Fisheries are also integral to SDG 2, which seeks to end hunger, achieve food security, improve nutrition, and promote sustainable agriculture. Fish are an essential source of protein and micronutrients for billions of people, particularly in regions where animal-based protein alternatives are scarce. Sustainable fisheries ensure the long-term availability of fish stocks, thus supporting food security and reducing malnutrition. Additionally, aquaculture provides an opportunity to increase the availability of fish through controlled production, alleviating pressure on wild fish populations while contributing to global food systems [3].

In terms of economic growth, fisheries directly contribute to SDG 8, which focuses on promoting inclusive and sustainable economic growth, employment, and decent work for all. The global fisheries sector, including both wild capture fisheries and aquaculture, generates significant economic activity, contributing to trade, tourism, and jobs. The seafood industry provides employment in areas such as fishing, processing, distribution, and retail. By investing in sustainable fishing practices and ensuring the long-term viability of fish stocks, the fisheries sector can continue to contribute to economic growth and provide stable, decent jobs, particularly in rural and coastal regions [4].

SDG 12, which calls for responsible consumption and production, is also closely linked to the fisheries sector. Unsustainable fishing practices, including overfishing, illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, and destructive fishing techniques, contribute to the depletion of marine resources and ecosystem degradation. By promoting sustainable fisheries management, reducing waste in the seafood supply chain, and encouraging responsible consumption of seafood, the fisheries sector can help achieve SDG 12. This involves enforcing regulations, adopting eco-labeling schemes, and fostering consumer awareness about the importance of sustainable sourcing practices [5].

Fisheries contribute to SDG 14, which is dedicated to conserving and sustainably using the oceans, seas, and marine resources. Healthy fish stocks and vibrant marine ecosystems are essential for maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem services, such as carbon sequestration, coastal protection, and water filtration. Overfishing and habitat destruction, including coral reef degradation and mangrove loss, threaten the health of marine ecosystems and the future sustainability of fisheries. Sustainable fisheries management practices, including marine protected areas, ecosystem-based management, and the reduction of bycatch, are essential for achieving the targets of SDG 14 [6].

Additionally, the role of fisheries in achieving SDGs related to climate action (SDG 13) is becoming increasingly important. Climate change has significant impacts on fisheries through changes in ocean temperatures, acidification, and shifting fish distribution patterns. Sustainable fisheries management can help mitigate some of these impacts by enhancing the resilience of fish stocks and ecosystems to climate change. For example, promoting the restoration of mangroves, seagrasses, and coral reefs can help protect fish habitats and maintain ecosystem services that are crucial for adapting to climate change [7].

The fisheries sector also intersects with SDG 10, which aims to reduce inequality. In many coastal regions, fisheries provide a critical source of livelihood for marginalized communities, including women and indigenous groups. Ensuring equitable access to fishery resources, supporting gender-inclusive policies, and promoting fair labor practices are vital for reducing inequality within the sector. Supporting small-scale fishers and ensuring their voices are included in decision-making processes can help reduce inequalities and ensure that the benefits of fisheries are shared more equitably [8].

In order to maximize the role of fisheries in achieving the SDGs, it is essential to promote effective governance, collaboration, and policy development at local, national, and international levels [9]. Strengthening international agreements such as the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and ensuring compliance with sustainable fishing practices are crucial steps in managing fisheries resources responsibly. Local governance systems that integrate traditional knowledge and community-based management can complement scientific approaches, leading to more effective and culturally appropriate fisheries management strategies [10].

Conclusion

While fisheries have a significant role in advancing the SDGs, achieving sustainable fisheries requires addressing a range of challenges. Overfishing, climate change, habitat degradation, and the impacts of industrial-scale fishing must be managed through integrated, ecosystem-based approaches that balance the needs of people and the environment. By fostering sustainable fisheries, promoting equitable access, and investing in resilient ecosystems, the fisheries sector can contribute substantially to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and ensuring a more sustainable, inclusive, and prosperous future for all.

References

  1. Carlsen L, Bruggemann R. The 17 United Nations’ sustainable development goals: A status by 2020. Int J Sustain. 2022;29(3):219-29.

    2. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  2. Bexell M, Jönsson K. Responsibility and the United Nations’ sustainable development goals. InForum for development studies 2017 Jan 2 (Vol. 44, No. 1, pp. 13-29). Routledge.

    3. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  3. Arora NK, Mishra I. United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 2030 and environmental sustainability: race against time. J Environ Sustain. 2019;2(4):339-42.

    4. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  4. Georgeson L, Maslin M. Putting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals into practice: A review of implementation, monitoring, and finance. Geo: Geography and Envir. 2018;5(1):e00049.

    5. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  5. Bleischwitz R, Spataru C, VanDeveer SD, et al. Resource nexus perspectives towards the United Nations sustainable development goals. Nat Sustain. 2018;1(12):737-43.

    6. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  6. Fritz S, See L, Carlson T, Haklay M, et al. Citizen science and the United Nations sustainable development goals. Nat Sustain. 2019;2(10):922-30.

    7. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  7. Bebbington J, Unerman J. Achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals: an enabling role for accounting research. Accounting, Auditing & Accountability Journal. 2018;31(1):2-4.

    8. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  8. López-Vargas A, Fuentes M, Vivar M. Challenges and opportunities of the internet of things for global development to achieve the United Nations sustainable development goals. IEEE Access. 2020;8:37202-13.

    9. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  9. Büyüközkan G, Karabulut Y, Mukul E. A novel renewable energy selection model for United Nations' sustainable development goals. Energy. 2018;165:290-302.

    10. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  10. Giannetti BF, Agostinho F, Almeida CM, et al. Insights on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals scope: Are they aligned with a ‘strong’sustainable development?. J Clean Prod. 2020;252:119574.

    11. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

Get the App