A new report published today sheds light on the complex challenges and promising opportunities associated with transitioning fishing vessels in developing countries towards renewable energy. Titled “Energy transition of fishing fleets: Opportunities and challenges for developing countries,” the study delves into the intersection of climate change, CO2 emissions, and fishing fleets, highlighting the sector’s significant contribution to greenhouse gas emissions while emphasizing its vital role in food security, jobs, and livelihoods.
Conducting an in-depth analysis of emissions data and commitments outlined in Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement, the report underlines the crucial link between climate change and fishing fleet operations. It further examines the evolving regulatory frameworks governing emissions, fuels utilized, and fisheries subsidies under the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and World Trade Organization (WTO), providing a roadmap of the current international landscape.
Case studies within the report showcase how countries and regions are already taking steps towards energy efficiency and decarbonization within their fishing sectors. These initiatives offer valuable insights and potential models for replication in other developing nations. Additionally, the report explores a range of commercially available and R&D-stage technologies that can enable the transition, assessing their implications and adaptability for diverse fishing practices and environments.
Recognizing the limitations of focusing solely on fishing vessels, the report acknowledges the need for a broader analysis encompassing the entire fisheries value chain, sustainable fisheries management, and ecosystem health. This lays the groundwork for future research endeavors aimed at achieving a more holistic understanding of the transition’s impact and potential.
The report concludes with a set of key recommendations for fostering a just energy transition in developing countries’ fishing sectors. These recommendations emphasize economic support mechanisms, technological innovation, capacity building initiatives, policy alignment across relevant sectors, and a commitment to social justice to ensure equitable distribution of benefits.
The full report, available for download, provides a comprehensive resource for policymakers, researchers, NGOs, and fishing communities seeking to navigate the complexities of this transition. By collaborating, fostering innovation, and prioritizing sustainable solutions, we can collectively pave the way for a healthier and more prosperous future for both the fisheries sector and the planet as a whole.
editor
12 December 2023