EAFM stands for Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries Management. It is a practical way to implement the principles of sustainable development for fisheries management by achieving a balance between ecology and social well-being through good governance.
What is an ecosystem?
An ecosystem is defined as a system of plants, animals (including humans), micro-organisms and non-living components in the environment that interact with each other.
What is sustainable development?
Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising needs of future generations.
EAFM benefits include:
- Assisting in the preparation of sustainable fisheries management plans.
- Helping to provide protection to marine ecosystems.
- Improving the socio-economic status of the fishing community.
- Ensuring the well-being of the fishing community and stakeholders.
The pillars of EAFM include Sustainable Development which has:
- Ecological well-being – Marine ecosystems, environmental conditions, food chains/cycles and water retaining areas
- Human well-being (social & economy) – Human activities that affect the ecosystem and depend on the services provided by the ecosystem:
- Habitat protection and conservation
- Reduction of pollution and waste
- Sustainable fishery sources
- Even distribution of resources
- Life well-being
- Good governance – An effective way to prepare and implement methods and rules
The Department of Fisheries is one of the government agencies responsible for the management of fishery resources. However, to ensure the success of EAFM, the department needs support from all stakeholders, such as government departments/agencies, fishing communities, NGOs, private developers, travel agencies, and others.
