MURTER ECO-PATROL AND SUSTAINABLE FISHING.
Members of the Murter eco-patrol on Saturday, April 30, 2016 have learned about the growing global problem – overfishing of a fish stocks, and how a sustainable fishing offers a solution to this global threat.
For centuries, oceans were considered as an inexhaustible source of fish and fishery products. Today we know that more than ¾ of fish stocks are overfished. Many species, such as Pacific Bluefin tuna and swordfish, are extremely vulnerable. Bycatch is a major global problem. Over 300,000 small whales, dolphins and porpoises die each year as a result of becoming entangled in fishing gear. Unsustainable fishing is a global problem that have a negative impact on marine ecosystems, but it also affects the lives of millions of people that rely on fish as the main source of nutrients.
By watching presentation at the Argonauta office kids had an opportunity to learn about sustainable fishing. Members of the eco-patrol had the opportunity to find out the reasons for the vulnerability of fish stocks and how sustainable fishing offers a solution for this rapidly growing global problem. After the presentation children prepared questionnaire. By using questionnaire they interviewed local fishermen to find out if they are using methods of sustainable fishing. After they find out that local fishermen take care of Adriatic sea they came back to Argonauta office. Using recycled materials they made a poster on the theme of the sustainable fishing.
Sustainable fishing leads to a significant recovery of the fish stocks and the habitats. Healthy fish stocks and healthy marine environment are crucial to the prosper of a coastal communities. Millions of people depend on fishing as a source of food and income. The establishment of marine protected areas, closed season, buying fish products that are caught on the sustainable way, and sustainable aquaculture are some of the methods of sustainable fishing that can contribute to rebuilding of fish stocks.
The next activity will take small ecologists “In to the sea by knees.” Children will make a marine herbarium, and will learn about the coastal species.
