How to Put An End to Open Access to High Seas Tunaff

Source: ISSF Press Release

Today ISSF will host a conference focused on the role of rights-based management (RBM) in creating sustainable tuna fisheries.

“Fair and equitable rights-based management is a cornerstone of a sustainable tuna fishery,” remarked ISSF President Susan Jackson. “Before we can lay down this building block, we must be sure to have a solid framework in place to prevent the foundation from crumbling under the pressure of the many issues facing the management of tuna fisheries.”

“Open access to tuna resources creates perverse incentives to overfish while management based on exclusive rights provides positive incentives to preserve and conserve stocks. That makes rights-based management essential for regional fisheries management organizations to prevent overfishing, achieve sustainability and realize maximum economic benefits of each fishery.”

During the conference, experts from Asia, the Pacific Islands, Europe and the Americas will discuss innovative ideas including management measures currently in place and how to allocate fishing rights moving in the future.

Taking Stock: La Jolla will also feature the launch of a web-based platform that allows attendees to connect to the conversation through their laptops and other internet-ready devices like iPads. Pixel Corps, a production firm based in northern California, developed the platform exclusively for ISSF.

“Creating an interactive environment enhances the discussion and really helps to make the room come alive,” remarked Alex Lindsay, who has run similar events for Pixel Corps. “Technology is allowing us to transform typical conferences where only the speakers at the front of the room have a voice. Using an application like this, everyone in the room can be heard during the entire event without derailing the discussion.”

Jackson added, “This technology will help to advance the conversation faster than it would otherwise. Of course it’s always important we take the time to listen to one another but part of that comes from making sure everyone in the room has a way to express their ideas.”

The ISSF event is being held the same week that world fisheries leaders gather in southern California for the Third Joint Meeting of the Tuna Regional Fisheries Management Organizations.