The role of fishing in climate protection

The role of fishing in climate protection

Climate change is one of the most pressing challenges of our time and we must examine all sectors of our lives to find solutions. One area that is often overlooked is fishing. Fishing has a significant impact on the global climate and therefore offers important starting points for climate protection.

Fisheries and their impact on the climate

Emissions

Fisheries are not only a source of food and income, but they also contribute to the production of greenhouse gases. According to a study by Parker & Tyedmers (2015), global fisheries emit approximately 129 million tons of CO2 equivalents annually. This corresponds to around 0.3% of global emissions.

Overfishing

Overfishing of the sea is one of the greatest threats to marine ecosystems. Not only does it reduce biodiversity, but it can also have a negative impact on the climate. By removing large amounts of fish from the ecosystem, overfishing alters the food web and can disrupt the balance of the marine carbon cycle.

Soil destruction

Soil destruction caused by fishing methods such as bottom trawling also has an impact on the climate. This practice disturbs the seafloor and releases carbon that was stored in the sediment. According to a study by Oceana (2020), land degradation from fishing releases up to 1.47 gigatons of CO2 equivalents annually.

Importance of fishing for climate protection

Reducing emissions

Fisheries can help reduce emissions by using cleaner technologies and more efficient methods. This includes, for example, the use of energy-efficient engines and switching to renewable energies.

Sustainable practices

Adopting more sustainable fishing practices can reduce the strain on marine ecosystems while paving the way for a climate-resilient future. These practices include compliance with recommended fishing quotas, protected marine areas, selective fishing methods that avoid unnecessary by-catches, and reducing waste and losses in fisheries.

Blue carbon sinks

Fisheries also play an important role in protecting so-called “blue carbon sinks.” These ecosystems, such as seagrass meadows, mangrove forests and salt marshes, store large amounts of carbon, helping to reduce global CO2 levels in the atmosphere. Overfishing and destructive fishing practices can damage these ecosystems, so it is important to protect these areas and promote sustainable fishing practices.

Fisheries as part of climate protection policy

Fisheries must be given greater consideration in the context of global climate protection. Many measures can be taken at different policy levels, from national laws to international agreements.

International cooperation

Since fish know no national borders and the sea is a global common good, international cooperation is essential for the sustainable management of fish stocks. International agreements and regulations, such as the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) or the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), must take climate change and its effects on fisheries into account.

National legislation

At the national level, laws and regulations can influence fishing practices. For example, fishing quotas can be set, certain fishing areas or methods can be restricted, and clean technologies can be incentivized.

Role of civil society

Last but not least, civil society plays an important role in protecting the oceans and climate protection. Organizations, companies and individuals can contribute through conscious consumption, promoting sustainable practices and political engagement.

conclusion

Fisheries can and must play an important role in the fight against climate change. Through sustainable practices and active policies, fisheries can help reduce emissions and mitigate the effects of climate change. It is up to all of us to encourage and support the necessary changes. Because every contribution counts – for a healthy planet and a sustainable future.