Fisheries & Reefs

To those living near the coast or near inland water bodies, fisheries are almost always an important aspect of household income. Most fisheries are dominated by large-scale fishing operations. Poor communities operate at the margins, fishing what large-scale operators leave behind. Nevertheless, fish are an important source of protein for many rural households. It is estimated that one billion people depend on fish as a their primary source of protein. Yet fisheries everywhere are in decline. Almost three quarters of the world's fish stocks are being harvested at or over their replacement capacity.

Reefs can provide a strong base of support for poor people living near coasts. Since it is difficult for larger fishing operations to exploit reefs, many people who would otherwise be marginalized can take advantage of the biodiversity and productivity of these ecoystems. However, in order for these resources to continue to provide for the poor, they must be protected and as managed by their users in a sustainable fashion. Climate change, pollution, and over-exploitation by coastal populations are all serious threats to the continued ability of reefs to support the livelihoods of those that depend on them.