FAO News and Events RSS Feed

GFCM - General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean - 37th Session -- Committee on Compliance (CoC) - 7th Session -- Committee on Administration and Finance (CAF) - 4th Session

Tue, 19 Mar 2013 12:00:00 +0100

ONLINE Registration and Meeting documents:
GFCM 37 | CoC 7 | CAF 4

FAO Fishing Vessels Finder

Wed, 15 May 2013 12:00:00 +0100

The FAO Fishing Vessels Finder (FVF), a one-stop site to search for detailed information on individual fishing vessels, is now available.

You can search the FVF, a data warehouse developed by FAO, from a variety of available public sources. The FVF currently covers information from the five tuna Regional Fisheries Management Organizations* and other authoritative sources**. Aside from being an archive of current and historical vessel records, the FVF also maps information from multiple sources. So, for example, you can see how many authorizations one specific vessel had in October 2010.

The FVF is still evolving with a view to becoming part of a Global Vessel Records framework in the future. To this end, FAO is seeking interested partners to share vessel information through the FVF.

FAO invites users to explore the FVF and to provide feedback. Inquiries, error reporting or interest in partnerships, can be addressed to: VRMF-Administrator@fao.org

* Commission for the Conservation of Southern Bluefin Tuna (CCSBT), Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission (IATTC), Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC), International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT), Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC)

** South Pacific Regional Fisheries Management Organisation (SPRFMO), EU Fleet Register, International Seafood Sustainability Foundation (ISSF), Organización del Sector Pesquero y Acuícola del Istmo Centroamericano (OSPESCA), Comisión Técnica Mixta del Frente Marítimo (CTMFM), Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA) , Comission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR) , United Nations General Assembly Resolution 61/105 (UNGA)

GFCM Validation meeting of the Task Force

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 12:00:00 +0100

Developing fish landing centres: experiences and lessons from Sri Lanka

Mon, 13 May 2013 12:00:00 +0100

After the December 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, FAO helped with the preparation of a post-tsunami master plan for fisheries infrastructure rehabilitation, contributing to reconstructing and developing the inshore marine fisheries sector. A new FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Report, Developing fish landing centres: experiences and lessons from Sri Lanka, describes this work who goal was to improve the livelihoods of fishers and fishing communities in those tsunami-affected areas in Sri Lanka.

Positive results of the Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries

Thu, 9 May 2013 12:00:00 +0100

A recent study highlighted the benefits of implementing the Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries. Focusing on five ecological indicators to quantify the ecosystem effects of fishing, the analysis found that compliance with the Code increases the sustainability of fisheries regardless of the region. It also warns of the negative ecological effects when such international instruments are not honoured.

The FAO Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries and its related International Plans of Action and Strategies are voluntary instruments widely recognized by governments and NGOs as the global standard for the sustainable development and management of fisheries and aquaculture, and as a basis for reviewing and adopting national fisheries legislation. Since its adoption in 1995, the Code has served as the key pillar of FAO’s mandate and mission for fisheries and aquaculture.

The independent scientific study, published in the journal “Global Environmental Change”, also includes a minimum compliance threshold above which the Code of Conduct would be effective in increasing the ecological sustainability of exploited aquatic ecosystems. These positive results underpin the importance of the work of the FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Department in assisting developing countries to adopt responsible fisheries and aquaculture practices in line with the Code.

NEW@FBL - April 2013 issue

Wed, 8 May 2013 12:00:00 +0100

New articles;
Mendeley;
Usage of e-journals;
Most frequently cited journals;
BioOne trial

Report of the FAO/CRFM/WECAFC Caribbean Regional Consultation on the Development of International Guidelines for Securing Sustainable Small-Scale Fisheries

Mon, 13 May 2013 12:00:00 +0100

Small-scale fisheries contribute to poverty alleviation, food and nutrition security, and economic development in the Caribbean region. A new FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Report, describes a meeting held in Jamaica last December which looked at how guidelines for small-scale fisheries can compliment existing international instruments like the Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries (CCRF).

Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC) - 17th Session (FI-733-17)

Thu, 7 Feb 2013 12:00:00 +0100

For further information and documentation, click here

Culprit behind massive shrimp die-offs in Asia unmasked: Bacterium responsible for Early Mortality Syndrome of Shrimp

Fri, 3 May 2013 12:00:00 +0100

3 May 2013, Rome - In a major breakthrough, researchers at the University of Arizona have identified the causative agent behind a mysterious disease that has been decimating shrimp farms in Asia.

Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC) - Compliance Committee - 10th Session

Thu, 7 Feb 2013 12:00:00 +0100

For further information and documentation, click here

FAO/NEPAD workshop on climate change, disasters and crises in the fisheries and aquaculture sector in Southern and Eastern Africa

Wed, 27 Feb 2013 12:00:00 +0100

The NEPAD-FAO Fish Programme (NFFP) and the Smartfish Programme are jointly organizing a regional workshop on climate change, disasters and crises in the fisheries and aquaculture sector in Southern and Eastern Africa. The objective of the workshop is to establish the current baseline regarding the integration of climate change adaptation and disaster risk management in fisheries and aquaculture activities and policies, and vice versa, and to coordinate activities, identify gaps, and priority actions to be supported by the NFFP and other partners.

Workshop announcement

CACFish - Central Asian and Caucasus Regional Fisheries and Aquaculture Commission - Second session

Mon, 11 Mar 2013 12:00:00 +0100

Agenda: English | Russian

No green economy without blue economy, says FAO Graziano da Silva meets with South West Pacific ministers on food security

Tue, 16 Apr 2013 12:00:00 +0100

Speaking at the 10th Meeting of FAO South West Pacific Ministers for Agriculture in the Samoan capital, Graziano da Silva said addressing climate change had become “a question of survival – just like hunger.”

The South West Pacific area accounts for roughly 15 percent of the globe, and includes about two thousand islands and atolls, which are particularly vulnerable to storms and flooding, water scarcity, and stresses on fishery and forestry systems.

The Director-General said one of FAO’s priorities was to work on the especially urgent climate change issues faced by Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and low-lying coastal areas in Pacific and all regions.

FAO supports Pacific island countries in many ways, in part, by working to broaden and deepen implementation of internationally agreed norms, like the Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries and related instruments.

The organization works with governments and partners at the national, regional and international levels on issues like illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing; the management of tuna fishing; and the management of marine areas beyond national jurisdictions.

FAO capture and aquaculture production databases updated with 2011 data

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 12:00:00 +0100

The FAO capture and aquaculture databases have been updated with an additional year and now include data from 1950 to 2011.

Users can consult these datasets through FishStatJ and FishStat Plus stand-alone software or the online query panel.

A brief overview on capture and aquaculture trends is available.

GFCM - Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC) - 15th Session

Wed, 6 Mar 2013 12:00:00 +0100

Looking at post-harvest losses in fisheries: towards sustainable solutions in Africa

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 12:00:00 +0100

A training workshop on the use and collection of data on post-harvest losses in fisheries aims to identify sustainable solutions to reduce losses in artisanal fisheries. The workshop, held in Lomé, Togo, was organized by Togo's Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries, in collaboration with FAO as part of the NEPAD/FAO Fish Programme.
Interview with Yvette DieiOuadi, FAO fishery industry officer (in French)

Managing billfish in the Western Central Atlantic

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 12:00:00 +0100

A recent workshop on the preparation of a billfish management and conservation plan for the Western Central Atlantic reconfirmed the wide interest in the Caribbean region to curb the trend of ever reducing billfish stocks.

Experts from 11 countries and 10 international and regional organizations recognized that improving billfish management and conservation in the Western Central Atlantic will have to be consistent with ICCAT* recommendations. They emphasized that partnerships between all relevant stakeholders, small-scale fisheries, recreational fisheries, industrial fisheries, distant water fishing nations fleets, tourism sector, Regional Fisheries Bodies, researchers, managers, civil society organizations and non-governmental organizations are required and that an Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries (EAF) should be applied.

The workshop finalized a project proposal on the “Introduction of billfish management and conservation in the Western Central Atlantic Region” to be included as part of a World Bank project “Ocean Partnerships for Sustainable Fisheries and Biodiversity Conservation - Models for Innovation and Reform” under the Common Oceans ABNJ Program.

More information on the workshop and its outcomes can be found at:

* International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT)

Field identification guide to the living marine resources of the Eastern and Southern Mediterranean

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 12:00:00 +0100

The FAO FishFinder programme has published a new guide,Field identification guide to the living marine resources of the Eastern and Southern Mediterranean, covering major animal groups of the southern and eastern Mediterranean Sea, including crustaceans, molluscs, sea urchins, fishes, sea turtles and marine mammals. It contains information on 372 species, selected according to their economic interest, commonness, and endangered or invasive status.

Each entry includes scientific nomenclature, FAO common names, size, habitat and biology, importance to fisheries, and distribution, as well as annotated illustrations highlighting relevant diagnostic features. Tables with vernacular names from the countries covered by the guide are also included. To better disseminate this information, particularly for fishers, the field guide includes an Arabic translation.

Action programme for the sustainable management of shared marine resources in the Caribbean region

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 12:00:00 +0100

Countries of the Caribbean region have agreed to a ten-year strategic action programme for the sustainable management of shared living marine resources. Many of the economically important marine species in the area - as well the environmental problems that affect these species - are transboundary in nature and require coordinated action to ensure the sustainable use and protection of these natural resources. The action programme, approved at the 4th Meeting of the Caribbean Large Marine Ecosystem (CLME) Project held last week in Colombia, focuses on fisheries enhancement, fisheries sustainability, biodiversity and ecosystem protection, and alternative livelihoods. The programme will now go to the responsible ministries in all 21 participating countries for political endorsement, after which new investments can be attracted to the region to help implement it.

For more information: Caribbean Large Marine Ecosystem (CLME) Project

Priority adaptations to climate change for Pacific fisheries and aquaculture: reducing risks and capitalizing on opportunities

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 12:00:00 +0100

Proceedings for a workshop organized last year by FAO and Secretariat of the Pacific Community are now available. Priority adaptations to climate change for Pacific fisheries and aquaculture: reducing risks and capitalizing on opportunities provides a summary of the technical presentations given at the workshop on the implications of climate change for Pacific fisheries and aquaculture as well as the outcomes of discussions on the priority adaptations that Pacific island countries and territories (PICTs) can implement to reduce risks and take advantage of opportunities.

Discussions focused on priority adaptations for economic development and government revenue, food security and sustainable livelihoods for Melanesian, Micronesian and Polynesian nations. The adaptations identified reflect the different fisheries participation rates and importance of fish to economic development and as a source of local food and income in these different region.

GFCM - Committee on Aquaculture (CAQ) - 8th Session (including SIPAM)

Tue, 5 Feb 2013 12:00:00 +0100

AppliFish, marine knowledge at the touch of a button

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 12:00:00 +0100

While human consumption of fish products has doubled in the last half century, policies for sustainable use of aquatic ecosystems must address the challenges facing global fish stocks.

AppliFish is a free mobile application developed by the fisheries and biodiversity knowledge platform i-Marine makes aquatic-related information available to anyone, anytime, anywhere.

Some 30 percent of the world's marine fish stocks assessed in 2009 were overexploited, according to FAO's State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture 2012.

iMarine is a global consortium of 13 research institutes, universities and international organizations from three continents with €5 million in funding by the European Union (EU).

Its new application AppliFish also has a web version that contains additional scientific information, which can help policy-makers, producers and consumers make informed decisions, and contribute to shape policies necessary for the responsible management of fisheries and conservation of aquatic resources, as underlined in the principles laid out in FAO's Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries.

AppliFish adds on to i-Marine's applications for managing, processing and visualizing scientific content to increase awareness of the challenges which aquatic ecosystems face.

These applications include the biodiversity mapping tool AquaMaps, the Vessel Transmitted Information Tool (VTI), reporting on vessel activity and environmental conditions for scientists working in fisheries, and the Integrated Capture Information System (ICIS), providing regional and global information on capture of aquatic species.

The application is designed as a pocket book of marine knowledge at the touch of a button. It offers basic information of over 550 marine species, such as a common names and sizes, distribution maps, as well as maps featuring expected changes in species distribution caused by climate change.

AppliFish combines data from authoritative, international sources, including FAO-FishFinder, FAO statistics, WoRMS, Fishbase, SeaLifeBase, IUCN, AquaMaps and OBIS, bringing together a wealth of expertise to create a community of practice in support of the ecosystem approach to fisheries management and conservation of marine living resources.

AppliFish is available both for Android and for iOS.

Improving biosecurity through prudent and responsible use of veterinary medicines in aquatic food production

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 12:00:00 +0100

Aquaculture - an important food-producing sector that is an essential source of nutritious proteins, as well as a source of jobs and foreign export earnings - has undergone dramatic growth leading towards increased intensification and diversification of global aquaculture.

Commercial aquaculture calls for the routine use of veterinary medicines to prevent and treat disease outbreaks owing to pathogens, assure healthy stocks and maximize production. However, the expanded and occasionally irresponsible global movements of live aquatic animals have been accompanied by the transboundary spread of a wide variety of pathogens that have sometimes caused serious damage to aquatic food productivity and resulted in serious pathogens becoming endemic in culture systems and the natural aquatic environment. As disease emergencies can happen even in well-managed aquaculture operations, careful planning on the use of antimicrobials is essential.

A recent FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Technical Paper, Improving biosecurity through prudent and responsible use of veterinary medicines in aquatic food production, offers guidance to aquaculture stakeholders on the responsible use of veterinary medicines.

EIFAAC - European Inland Fisheries and Aquaculture Advisory Commission - Joint Management Committee/Technical and Scientific Committee Meeting

Tue, 5 Mar 2013 12:00:00 +0100

International guidelines take aim at illegal fishing (IUU)

Thu, 7 Mar 2013 12:00:00 +0100

After several years of negotiations, countries have taken a major step against illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing (IUU), one of the greatest threats to sustainable fisheries and related livelihoods.

International guidelines developed through an FAO-led consultative process aim to cut down on IUU fishing by improving the accountability of flag states - those countries which register fishing vessels and authorize them to fly their flags.

The guidelines include recommended approaches to encourage and help flag states comply with their international duties and obligations regarding the flagging and control of fishing vessels. They also present possible actions in response to non-compliance.

The Voluntary Guidelines for Flag State Performance were agreed upon after over five years of consensus-building among FAO Member Countries. The guidelines will be presented to the FAO Committee on Fisheries (COFI) for endorsement at its next Session in June, 2014.

Safety Recommendations for Decked Fishing Vessels of Less than 12 metres in Length and Undecked Fishing Vessel

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 12:00:00 +0100

A new document, Safety Recommendations for Decked Fishing Vessels of Less than 12 metres in Length and Undecked Fishing Vessels was published as part of the continuing cooperation between FAO, the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in relation to the safety of fishing vessels.

These safety recommendations provide information on the design, construction, equipment, training and protection of the crews of small fishing vessels with a view to promoting the safety of the vessel and the safety and health of the crews. They can also serve as a guide for those concerned with the safety of vessels used in support of aquaculture activities.

Although not intended as a substitute for national laws and regulations, these recommendations can also help in framing such national laws and regulations.

Fishing vessels and acoustic surveys for deep-sea species

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 12:00:00 +0100

A recent FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture publication, Fishing vessel execution of acoustic surveys of deep-sea species: main issues and way forward, provides a synthesis of current knowledge and practice for engaging the fishing industry in the management of the resources they target, highlights main challenges, and discusses how analysts and decision-makers can use this experience in undertaking aggregation-based fishing-vessel executed acoustic surveys.

NEW@FBL - February 2013 issue

Mon, 4 Mar 2013 12:00:00 +0100

New articles by FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Departmental staff in external journals;
Citation analysis;
List of cancelled journals;
Group of Experts for Marine Information Management.

Southwest Indian Ocean Fisheries Commission (SWIOFC) - Special Session

Thu, 24 Jan 2013 12:00:00 +0100

Tuna: a global perspective

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 12:00:00 +0100

Tuna and tuna-like species are a significant source of nutritious food and livelihoods. They include approximately 40 species occurring in the Atlantic, Indian and Pacific Oceans and in the Mediterranean Sea.

Over the years, FAO has formulated and implemented various global, regional and national projects and facilitated meetings (often externally funded) in support of the management of tuna fisheries and capture-based aquaculture.

South-South Cooperation Holds Key to a World Without Hunger

Tue, 19 Feb 2013 12:00:00 +0100

Two decades of concerted efforts on agriculture intensification, irrigation and water system development, fertilizer plants, high quality seed plants, troops of agriculture trainers supported by FAO experts, village cooperatives, direct credits for farmers and fishers, village infrastructure, medical facilities and schools, has helped turn around Indonesia's agricultural sector.
FAO's Indroyono Soesilo, Director of Fisheries and Aquaculture Resources Use and Conservation Division/Fisheries and Aquaculture Department and Laurent Thomas, Assistant Director-General for Technical Cooperation explain how in this op-ed.

FIRMS widens its scope

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 12:00:00 +0100

During the recent FIRMS Steering Committee, held at FAO headquarters in Rome, participants considered how to widen the partnership’s scope and include a socio-economic dimension to the system - a scientific component in support to responsible decision-making. FIRMS currently covers over 1200 fishery stocks and now brings greater emphasis on management information, which enhances its commitment to contribute fishery indicators to the state of the environment and ecosystems in support of sustainable fisheries. As a result, the FIRMS partnership decided to modify its name to the Fisheries and Resources Monitoring System to better reflect increasing information on fisheries and their management.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions Strategies and Methods in Seafood

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 12:00:00 +0100

The FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Department recently released the Report of the Expert Workshop on Greenhouse Gas Emissions Strategies and Methods in Seafood. The workshop, held in January 2012 and convened by the Director-General of FAO, provides information on possible fishing industry contributions to climate change and on ways to reduce the sector’s reliance on and consumption of fossil fuels, respecting the principles embodied within the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.

Elasmobranchs of the Mediterranean and Black Sea

Fri, 8 Feb 2013 12:00:00 +0100

A new study published by the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean, Elasmobranchs of the Mediterranean and Black Sea: status, ecology and biology, biographic analysis, provides general information on taxonomy, distribution, status, statistics,fisheries, bycatch, biologic and ecologic parameters on age and growth, food and feeding habits, reproductive biology and stock assessment of elasmobranchs in the Mediterranean and Black Sea.

Sharks, batoids and chimaeras of the North Atlantic

Fri, 8 Feb 2013 12:00:00 +0100

FAO Species Catalogue for Fishery Purposes No. 7 is now available. This catalogue provides comprehensive and updated information on the identification, taxonomy, distribution, biology and ecology of the sharks, rays, skates and chimaeras of the North Atlantic (FAO Areas 21 and 27). The volume, prepared by the FAO FishFinder programme, is fully indexed and also includes sections on terminology and measurements including an extensive glossary, a list of species by FAO Statistical Areas and a dedicated bibliography.

Fisheries and aquaculture in the Republic of Azerbaijan: a review

Fri, 8 Feb 2013 12:00:00 +0100

The FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture has recently published a review of the status of fisheries and aquaculture in Azerbaijan. This circular, which also includes a historial overview, aims to increase awareness among small-scale fishers and aquaculturists in Azerbaijan, as well as in the Central Asian region in general, on the status, regulations, policies, plans, challenges and opportunities of the sector.

CWP - Coordinating Working Party on Fishery Statistics - 24th Session (FI-751-24)

Fri, 25 Jan 2013 12:00:00 +0100

Technical Consultation on Flag State Performance (FI-805) - Second Resumed Session

Mon, 11 Mar 2013 12:00:00 +0100

Meeting location:
Viale delle Terme di Caracalla
00153 Rome Italy

Chairperson’s report
Resumed sesion (5-9 March 2012)

Chairperson’s draft text
Text as at 9 March 2012

Chairperson’s report
First session (2-6 May 2011)

Chairperson’s draft text
Text as at 9 May 2011

Registration/ Inscription / Inscripción
Registration Form for International Organizations / Formulaire d’inscription pour Organisations Internationales / Formulario de inscripción para Organizaciones Internacionales

Documents contributed by Members
Documents can be provided electronically to the Secretary (matthew.camilleri@fao.org) at any time. In keeping with FAO practice they will be posted in the original language. Under exceptional circumstances, and depending on the availability of extrabudgetary funds, efforts will be made to translate documents.

Visas

Information for Delegates to Meetings at FAO Headquarters

FIRMS Steering Committee Meeting - 8th Session

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 12:00:00 +0100

Information for Participants at Meetings at FAO Headquarters

Meeting location:
FAO - Nigeria meeting room (C215 - second floor)
Viale delle Terme di Caracalla
00153 Rome Italy

Report | Meeting documents

Regional Fisheries Livelihoods Programme in South and Southeast Asia launches series of country surveys

Fri, 1 Feb 2013 12:00:00 +0100

Across South and Southeast Asia, the livelihoods of some 5.6 million coastal small-scale fishers are among the most insecure and vulnerable in the area. The Regional Fisheries Livelihood Programme for South and Southeast Asia (RFLP), funded by the Kingdom of Spain and implemented by FAO, sets out to strengthen capacity among participating small-scale fishing communities and their supporting institutions in Cambodia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Timor-Leste and Viet Nam. Baseline surveys have been undertaken for each country. To highlight the key baseline findings and make the survey results more accessible and understandable, graphic summaries of each survey have been produced.

Genetic technologies to improve fish production

Tue, 29 Jan 2013 12:00:00 +0100

Traditional and modern breeding techniques needed to increase food production in aquaculture

Bangkok, Thailand, 28 Jan 2013 -- Fisheries experts from more than 13 countries opened the first of two consultations today that could herald new ways of reducing hunger and poverty by cataloguing and improving aquatic genetic resources for food and agriculture. Most farmed fish have not been domesticated the way that farmed crops and livestock have been, so farmed fish remain very similar to their wild relatives. The meeting will consider the benefits of genetic improvement by using traditional breeding techniques as well as modern genetic technologies to increase growth rates, reduce inputs and improve the cost-effectiveness of aquaculture.

NEW@FBL - January 2013 issue

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 12:00:00 +0100

Articles by FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Departmental staff in external journals and monographs published in 2012 are listed in the latest newsletter from the Fisheries & Aquaculture Branch Library: New@FBL.

Commercially important sea cucumbers of the world

Mon, 28 Jan 2013 12:00:00 +0100

Sea cucumbers are exploited and traded in more than 70 countries worldwide. A new guide published by the FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Department, Commercially important sea cucumbers of the world, provides identification information on 58 species of sea cucumbers that are commonly exploited in artisanal and industrial fisheries around the world. Not all exploited species are included. Intended for fishery managers, scientists, trade officers and industry workers, this book contains key information identification sheets allowing readers to distinguish each species from similar species, both in live and processed (dried) forms.

Where available, the following information is included for each species: nomenclature together with FAO names and known common names used in different countries and regions; scientific illustrations of the body and ossicles; descriptions of ossicles present in different body parts; a colour photograph of live and dried specimens; basic information on size, habitat, biology, fisheries, human consumption, market value and trade; geographic distribution maps. The volume is fully indexed and contains an introduction, a glossary and bibliography.

This field guidebook, part of the FAO Species Catalogue for Fishery Purposes collection and produced by FAO FishFinder, benefitted from the collaboration of sea cucumber scientists worldwide as well as FAO expertise.

Fuel savings for small fishing vessels

Mon, 28 Jan 2013 12:00:00 +0100

A new manual from the FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Department, Fuel savings for small fishing vessels, provides practical advice to fishing boat owners and crews, boat builders and boat designers and fisheries administrators on ways to reduce fuel costs. With a focus on small fishing boats, it also serves as a guide for those involved with fuel savings for small vessels used in support of aquaculture activities. The manual provides information and diagrams to boat designers and boat builders on hull shape for low resistance and the selection of efficient propellers.

Report of the Fourth FAO Expert Advisory Panel for the Assessment of Proposals to Amend Appendices I and II of CITES Concerning Commercially-exploited Aquatic Species

Tue, 29 Jan 2013 12:00:00 +0100

The FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Report of the Fourth FAO Expert Advisory Panel for the assessment of proposals to amend Appendices I and II of CITES concerning commercially-exploited aquatic species is now available. The Panel, which met in December 2012, was convened in response to the agreement by the FAO Committee on Fisheries (COFI) for an expert advisory panel for assessing relevant proposals to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) Panel for future CITES Conference of the Parties.

Harmonizing fisheries information systems in the South West Indian Ocean region

Tue, 29 Jan 2013 12:00:00 +0100

A workshop to develop an action plan towards the creation of a Regional Information System for the South West Indian Ocean region agreed to: creating a prototype harmonized information system, a working methodology and a road map to present both the prototype together with sustainability assessment considerations to regional decision-makers in 2013. The workshop report is now available online.

The workshop was organized in collaboration with SmartFish.

An audit of inland capture fishery statistics in Africa

Mon, 28 Jan 2013 12:00:00 +0100

The FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Department has published an audit of inland capture fishery statistics in Africa. This review is part of an initiative to refocus on inland capture fisheries after several years of relative neglect and to assess the current status of inland fishery resources of the continent. It also identifies critical issues emerging from the nominal catch statistics that affect understanding of the status of African inland capture fisheries and the capacity to manage them in the face of competing uses of water and the natural environment.

Putting into practice the FAO technical guidelines on marine protected areas (MPAS) and fisheries

Fri, 8 Feb 2013 12:00:00 +0100

The FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Department report of the FAO workshop on putting into practice the FAO technical guidelines on marine protected areas (MPAS) and fisheries is now available online. This document provides a summary of the presentations, discussions, conclusions and recommendations of the 2012 workshlp which was jointly organized by FAO, SEAFDEC and the BOBLME project.

FAO/CRFM/CDEMA/CCCCC Regional Workshop on Formulation of a Strategy, Action Plan and Programme Proposal on Disaster Risk Management, Climate Change Adaptation in Fisheries and Aquaculture in the CARICOM and Wider Caribbean Region

Wed, 28 Nov 2012 12:00:00 +0100

The overall purpose of the workshop is to contribute to strengthening regional and national inter sectoral cooperation and the development of capacity to address climate change impacts and disasters in the fisheries and aquaculture sector.

The expected outputs are:

Assessment study on the impact of climate change and disasters on the fisheries and aquaculture sector in the CARICOM region
Strategy and action plan for integrating disaster risk management, climate change adaptation and fisheries and aquaculture, with a focus on small-scale fisheries and small-scale aquaculture.
Results-based programme proposal with supporting project concept notes towards implementation and resource mobilization.

The workshop is organised by FAO and CRFM with the support from Sweden through the FMM FAO Multidonor Mechanism (FMM/GLO/003/MUL) and Japan (GCP /INT/253/JPN). The workshop is being organized in collaboration with CDEMA, CCCCC, WECAFC and other members of the Agriculture Sub-Sector Committee/Technical Management Advisory Committee (ASSC/TMAC).

Prospectus and Agenda

Climate change and disaster risk management at center of regional fisheries talks

Thu, 13 Dec 2012 12:00:00 +0100

The hurricane season just ended and, with the trail of death and destruction carved out by Hurricane Sandy in October, has left many with a reminder of just how devastating natural disasters can be. Climate change is a compounding factor that regional fisheries managers cannot ignore.

Over 90 collaborators from across the region will be focusing on these issues as they convene the Workshop on Formulation of a Strategy, Action Plan and Programme Proposal on Disaster Risk Management (DRM), Climate Change Adaptation in Fisheries and Aquaculture in the CARICOM Region in Jamaica from 10-12 December.

“The Caribbean is said to be one of the most disaster-prone regions in the world based on the frequency and severity of hazard impacts, as well as the significant damage, destruction and social and economic losses experienced. We are very mindful of the potential devastating impact of both man-made and natural hazards such as tropical storms, hurricanes, floods, droughts, volcanic eruptions, and earthquakes and tsunamis. Over the past 2-3 decades, these hazards have had devastating impacts on the people, their property and livelihoods, and on the social and economic development of our countries,” said Executive Director of the Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism (CRFM), Milton Haughton.

Haughton noted that fishers, fish farmers and fishing communities, particularly those in coastal areas, are vulnerable. “It is not surprising, therefore, that the subject of climate change and disaster risk management has been recognized as a fundamental development challenge in the Caribbean requiring special attention by policy makers,” he added.

At the request of the CRFM, FAO has provided support to assist countries in the region with the development of a Regional Strategy, Action Plan and Programme Proposal on Disaster Risk Management and Climate Change Adaptation in Fisheries and Aquaculture, in an effort to implement adaptation and mitigation. It is in this vein that government officials responsible for fisheries, climate change and disaster risk management, along with fisherfolk and civil society representatives, are meeting.

“This should help us as a region to better understand the impacts of climate change on the fisheries and marine ecosystem, and implement adaptation and mitigation measures to protect food security and the livelihoods of coastal communities in the region,” Haughton elaborated. He urged that, “We need to act now to climate-proof and protect the vulnerable coastal fishing communities and their livelihoods, and build ecosystem resilience into our aquaculture and fisheries management policies.”

Days earlier, the regional collaborators met to provide input on the Zero Draft of the International Guidelines for Securing Sustainable Small-Scale Fisheries (SSF Guidelines), which will be presented for adoption at the FAO Committee on Fisheries (COFI) in July 2014.

“The preparation of the SSF Guidelines is expected to contribute to policy development at the national and regional levels,” said FAO Senior Fishery Officer Helga Josupeit. “In addition, both the process and the final product are expected to have considerable impact on guiding policies and practices for securing small-scale fisheries and creating benefits, especially in terms of food security and poverty reduction.” Josupeit explained that small-scale fishers, fish workers and their communities across the world should feel a sense of ownership of the SSF guidelines, thus contributing to the process of turning resource users into resource stewards.

Participants also undertook a performance review of the CRFM and provided input into a new 8-year strategic plan for 2013-2021.

Concerns about fisheries management in the Western Central Atlantic

Thu, 13 Dec 2012 12:00:00 +0100

The "Workshop to Validate the Review of Current Fisheries Management Performance and Conservation Measures in the Western Central Atlantic Region" was held in Jamaica on 8 December 2012.

Preliminary findings point to concerns about the status of the legal processes in fisheries, particularly in the 16 countries that participated in the survey. It appears that many fisheries sector laws currently in place do not require fisheries managers to make decisions based on necessary scientific evidence.

Only 56% of countries and territories surveyed had incorporated stock assessments requirements into their legislation. Moreover, social impact analyses, analysis by regional fisheries bodies and economic analyses were among those types of analyses least required by the national legislation for making management decisions in fisheries. Consequently, the legal framework for the implementation of fisheries management and conservation measures appears to be limited and non-specific in many of the countries in the region.

This is in sharp contrast to the emergence and adoption of several international fisheries instruments by the countries concerned - international instruments that make specific provisions regarding preservation of resource health, biodiversity and the associated ecosystems, and hence which provide paradigms for sustainable fisheries management.

The review also shows that many major fisheries are not tied to any formal management plans. Fisheries specific management plans have been developed for only 60% of commercial and small-scale fisheries and for very few recreational fisheries (14%). In cases where formal fisheries management plans do exist, overfishing is not defined which can hamper formal treatment of this problem, considered to be common.

More findings from the study will be shared after discussion at the 11th CRFM Fisheries Forum meeting to be held in Barbados in May 2013. By then there will be additional findings on the management performance status in the region and recommendations for resolving the issues will be showing a way forward for the region.

The “Review of the state of world marine capture fisheries management: WECAFC region” is carried out in partnership by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the Western Central Atlantic Fishery Commission (WECAFC) and the Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism (CRFM). Sixteen countries and territories are participating in the review. The findings will be published by FAO as a Fisheries and Aquaculture Technical Paper in 2013.

Regional Small-Scale Fisheries Workshop kicks off in Jamaica

Thu, 13 Dec 2012 12:00:00 +0100

Small-scale fisheries, although they do not land as much produce as commercial or large-scale fisheries, bear far more socioeconomic importance. They produce more fish for domestic human consumption, employ over 90% of the world’s estimated 35 million capture fishers and support another 85 million people employed in jobs associated with fish processing, distribution and marketing - especially women, who make up about half of those employed in small-scale fisheries.

These fisherfolk are among the stakeholders invited to sit in discussions with regional and international fisheries experts, in addition to civil society organizations and policy-makers, as the region collaborates in providing input on new international guidelines.

The International Guidelines for Securing Sustainable Small-Scale Fisheries (SSF Guidelines) are being developed and the negotiated final draft will be presented for adoption at the next session of the FAO Committee on Fisheries (COFI) in July 2014.

As part of this consultative process, there will be a workshop for Caribbean countries in Kingston, Jamaica, from December 6-8, 2012. Participants will be asked to review and provide comments on the Zero Draft of the SSF Guidelines. The SSF meeting is one of five multi-agency fisheries meetings to be convened from 5-12 December 2012.

On the heels of the SSF workshop will be another major meeting from 10-12 December aims to engage climate change and disaster risk management experts from the region, as they explore the ways in which this phenomenon could impact fisheries sectors across the CARICOM region.

A performance review of the Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism (CRFM), to be undertaken over the course of the 8 days, will pave the way for the CRFM Member States and collaborators to formulate a new eight-year strategic plan for the CRFM (2013-21).

The events formally open at an official ceremony on December 6 where Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries Roger Clarke will deliver the keynote address; CRFM Executive Director Milton Haughton will speak on behalf of the CRFM; and FAO Senior Fishery Officer Helga Josupeit for the FAO.

Haughton said the meetings are an opportunity for the countries and stakeholders such as fisherfolk to engage in discussing issues of common interest as well as to actively participate in creating plans and programmes to secure their livelihoods.

More information on the InternationalGuidelines for Securing Sustainable Small-Scale Fisheries

The meetings are convened by the CRFM in collaboration with the FAO Western Central Atlantic Fishery Commission (WECAFC), the Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre (CCCCC), and the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA), through funding and technical assistance provided by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).
The 19 participating countries: Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Cuba, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, Montserrat, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago and Turks & Caicos Islands.
Some 100 participants are expected, including fisherfolk representatives from Chile, Costa Rica and South Africa and several regional and international organizations.

Caribbean Regional Consultation Workshop on the development of International Guidelines for Securing Sustainable Small-Scale Fisheries (SSF)

Tue, 25 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0100

The overall objective of the workshop is to support the development of the International Guidelines for Securing Sustainable Small-Scale Fisheries (SSF Guidelines) by providing inputs and advice, both with regard to good policies and practices in the region and in respect of overall principles and contents and to provide comments on the current Zero Draft of the SSF Guidelines.

Discussions at the workshop will be forward looking and address implementation issues. The SSF Guidelines are intended to become an integral part of ongoing governance and development processes in support of small-scale fisheries. Accordingly, the workshop will promote cross-linkages between the SSF Guidelines and the policies and actions required in the Caribbean region.

Timor-Leste completes first national census of fishing boats

Wed, 28 Nov 2012 12:00:00 +0100

Timor-Leste has completed its first ever national census of fishing vessels, an achievement which will greatly facilitate the sustainable management of the nation's fisheries resources.

Between October 2011 and October 2012, a Mobile Licensing Service visited 192 fishing centers in all 11 districts throughout the country. A total of 2 865 boats were registered during the process, of which 1 324 were issued licenses.

This activity is part of the Spanish-funded Regional Fisheries Livelihoods Programme for South and Southeast Asia (RFLP) which is executed by FAO.

Over 100 to gather for multi-agency fisheries meetings in Jamaica

Fri, 30 Nov 2012 12:00:00 +0100

Over 100 stakeholders from government and grassroots agencies, as well as regional and international organizations, will be gathering next week in Kingston, Jamaica, for a series of five multi-agency fisheries meetings from December 5-12.

Speaking of the significance of the meetings, Milton Haughton, Executive Director of the Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism (CRFM) said: "It is an opportunity for the countries and stakeholders, meaning government representatives as well as fisherfolk and other stakeholders – including non-government organizations and civil society organizations – to get together to discuss issues of common interest and to come up with plans and programs for a brighter future."

The meetings are convened by the CRFM in collaboration with the FAO Western Central Atlantic Fishery Commission (WECAFC), the Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre (CCCCC) and the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA), through funding and technical assistance provided by FAO.

Haughton said that the performance of the CRFM as an organization will be assessed during the course of the meetings. "We've been in operations now for almost 8 years, so we are stopping and taking stock of our performance over the last few years..." he said.

The review will pave the way for the CRFM Member States and collaborators to formulate a new eight-year strategic plan for the CRFM (2013 -2021).

Whereas the first two meetings will be focused on administrative work, the remaining three will focus on driving major fisheries initiatives forward, as we seek to transform, modernize and improve the aquaculture and fisheries sector. These meetings are aimed at ensuring a more secure future for those persons who depend upon fisheries and aquaculture resources for their livelihoods, particularly small-scale fishers and their families.

The third meeting, the FAO/CRFM/WECAFC Regional Small-Scale Fisheries Workshop, will center around small-scale fisheries development, more specifically, the development of international guidelines for securing sustainable small-scale fisheries, while the fourth is geared towards developing a strategy and action plan to respond to climate change and disaster risk management in fisheries and aquaculture across the Caribbean.

Haughton said they will be breaking new ground with the degree of intersectoral, interdisciplinary and participatory approaches that they are taking. "It is the first time that fisheries, disaster risk management and climate change officials will be meeting together with representatives of fisherfolk organizations, civil society organizations, academic institutions, and international and regional development partners, to come up with collective plans and programs, and identify strategic directions to move the sector towards higher levels of outputs and sustainable development," he explained.

Haughton elaborated that participants will be meeting to develop integrated plans across traditional sectoral lines that would address important areas of need within the fisheries and aquaculture sector.

Jamaica's Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries Roger Clarke will deliver the feature address at the official opening ceremony, which will take place on Thursday, December 6, followed by a press conference.

Background document on Summary of Workshops Meeting documents

The living marine resources of Kenya

Mon, 10 Dec 2012 12:00:00 +0100

FAO has recently published a field guide The living marine resources of Kenya covering the major resource groups likely to be encountered in the fisheries of Kenya. The guide includes shrimps, lobsters, crabs, bivalves, gastropods, cephalopods, sea cucumbers, sharks, batoid fishes, bony fishes, and sea turtles. It contains general information, as well as technical and scientific terms accompanied by illustrations, diagnostic features and further literature.

The field guide is part of the FAO FishFinder programme

CACFish - Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) - First session

Fri, 16 Nov 2012 12:00:00 +0100

FAO Sub-regional Office for Central Asia (SEC) - Ankara, Turkey (CACFish-Secretariat@fao.org)

Information to participants (in Russian)

Director-General discusses key fisheries issues with EU Fisheries Commissioner

Mon, 12 Nov 2012 12:00:00 +0100

Key fisheries issues including joint collaboration on aquaculture policy, management of global fisheries and EU support to combat illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing were discussed in a meeting yesterday between FAO Director-General José Graziano da Silva and Maria Damanaki, European Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries.

RECOFI - Sixth meeting of the Working Group on Fisheries Management (WG-FM)

Thu, 11 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0100

ONLINE Registration and Meeting documents

Steps taken towards Recreational Fisheries Impact Assessment in the Caribbean

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 12:00:00 +0100

The WECAFC/OSPESCA/CRFM/CFMC Working Group* on Recreational Fisheries concluded its first major activity. An Expert Workshop held in Santa Marta, Colombia earlier this month reviewed and finalized a Manual on economic impact assessment of recreational fisheries in the Wider Caribbean Region which will be tested in 2013.

The Working Group members consider the manual a very useful tool for assessing the level of expenditures and associated economic impacts related to recreational fishing in the region. Application of the manual will: a) increase awareness and understanding among decision makers and the general public about the economic importance of recreational fisheries to their countries and b) assist fisheries managers to contribute better to public policy discussions affecting fisheries management, conservation and economic policy.

After a test phase in 2013, the manual will be distributed widely in English, Spanish and French throughout the region.

The Expert Workshop was attended by 29 experts from 8 countries and territories**. The Expert Workshop was co-organized by the Western Central Atlantic Fishery Commission (WECAFC) of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and The Billfish Foundation (TBF). The Gulf and Caribbean Fisheries Institute (GCFI) facilitated the workshop arrangements.

More information on the meeting and its outcomes can be obtained from the WECAFC:WECAFC-Secretariat@fao.org.

Read the workshop conclusions and recommendations

* This is a joint Working Group of the Western Central Atlantic Fishery Commission (WECAFC), Organization for the Fisheries and Aquaculture Sector of the Central American Isthmus (OSPESCA), the Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism (CRFM), and the Caribbean Fisheries Management Council (CFMC).
** Participating countries and territories included: Caribbean Netherlands, Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, France (Martinique), Trinidad and Tobago, United States of America (including Puerto Rico) and Venezuela. CRFM, CFMC, TBF, ICCAT, IGFA, GCFI, World Bank and FAO were represented as well.

GFCM - SAC - SCSA - WG on Stock Assessment of Demersal Species

Fri, 28 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0100

GFCM - SAC - SCSA - WG on Stock Assessment of Small Pelagic Species

Fri, 28 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0100

ONLINE Registration and Meeting documents

Marine Omega 3s – the healthiest fats

Fri, 2 Nov 2012 12:00:00 +0100

Long chain Omega 3 fatty acids found in the marine environment are increasingly being found to be essential for human health and development. The International Fishmeal and Fish Oil Organisation (IFFO) has just launched a short video explaining the origin of these important fats found in the marine environment, describing how latest research is showing that we should all consider increasing our consumption of EPA and DHA to ensure better health.

The IFFO, an industry organization, has been promoting the Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries in sourcing fish for the production of fishmeal and fish oil. The IFFO is an active observer at the FAO Committee on Fisheries, especially in its two Sub-Committees on Trade and Aquaculture. It collaborates with the FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Department on fishmeal and fish oil statistics and on resource sustainability based on the Code.

For more information on the IFFO
For more information on the FAO Committee on Fisheries

FAO/NEPAD workshop on climate change, disasters and crises in the fisheries and aquaculture sector in West and Central Africa

Tue, 9 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0100

NEPAD-FAO Fish Programme (NFFP) organizes a regional workshop on climate change, disasters and crises in the fisheries and aquaculture sector in West and Central Africa. The workshop will be held back to back with the FAO/NEPAD workshop on the Ecosystem Approach to fisheries and to Aquaculture in Africa, from 29 to 31 October.

The objective of the workshop is to establish the current baseline with regard to the integration of climate change adaptation (CCA) and disaster risk management (DRM) in fisheries and aquaculture activities and policies in West and Central Africa, and vice versa, of fisheries and aquaculture in climate change adaptation and disaster risk management strategies and plans, with the overall aim of coordinating activities and identifying gaps and priority actions to be supported by NFFP and other partners.

Workshop announcement

FAO/NEPAD Workshop on the Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries and to Aquaculture (EAF/EAA) in Africa - Status, Lessons learned and Furure Opportunities

Tue, 9 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0100

NEPAD-FAO Fish Programme - NFFP, the EAF-Nansen Project and the Sweden-Netherlands Multidonor fund jointly organize, in collaboration with other partners, a Workshop on the Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries and to Aquaculture in Africa. The overall objective of the Workshop is to create a common platform of understanding of EAF/EAA concepts in Africa.

Workshop announcement

Caribbean countries advise on Queen Conch

Wed, 31 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0100

A first meeting of a Working Group on the Queen Conch, an important fishery resource in the Caribbean and Central America which has been valued, especially for its meat, for several centuries, took place in Panama City last month. The Working Group, which issued a "Declaration of Panama City", provided advice to the 16th Conference of Parties of CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of wild flora and fauna) as well as recommendations to the regional fishery bodies and countries in the Western Central Atlantic. Participants also expressed their commitment to individually and collectively take measures and actions to further improve management and conservation of the Queen Conch resource in the Wider Caribbean Region.

Image of the chairs of the Working Group © Patricia Murillo

EIFAAC - European Inland Fisheries and Aquaculture Advisory Commission - 27th Session (FI-727-27)

Tue, 5 Mar 2013 12:00:00 +0100

Meeting documents / Documents de réunion

Webpage:
http://www.fao.org/fishery/rfb/eifaac

EIFAAC Symposium (organized by host Country) - Towards responsible future in inland fisheries - Management-related collaboration in inland fisheries and aquaculture

Mon, 25 Jun 2012 12:00:00 +0100

EIFAAC Symposium (Finnish Game and Fisheries Research Institute web site)

Flyer

Registration

Abstract Form

List of contributions

Best Oceans Policies Awarded at UN Biodiversity Summit

Thu, 18 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0100

FAO and other international organizations celebrate the Republic of Palau, Namibia and the Philippines in Hyderabad, India to award best policies to protect oceans and coasts.

Peter E. Kenmore, FAO Representative in India, was among the presenters at the Future Policy Award 2012 ceremony.

Pacific governments plan a better future from aquaculture

Tue, 23 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0100

‘Prevention is better than cure’ is the main message emerging from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)/SPC Regional Workshop on Aquatic Biosecurity and Aquaculture Data and Statistics in the Pacific Region held in Nadi, Fiji, last week.

Training workshop on Age Reading of elasmobranchs in the GFCM area

Thu, 30 Aug 2012 12:00:00 +0100

ONLINE Registration and Meeting documents

New global partnership to promote aquaculture in fighting hunger

Thu, 4 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0100

A major international initiative has been launched to better understand the role of aquaculture in food security in poor countries.

Future Policy Award 2012 goes to Palau -- exemplary policies from Namibia and the Philippines win Silver Awards

Wed, 26 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0100

The Republic of Palau is the winner of the Future Policy Award 2012. Palau received the Award in recognition of two outstanding marine policies (Protected Areas Network Act, initiated in 2003 and the Shark Haven Act from 2009). The two Silver Awards went to the Philippines for the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park Act (2010) and to Namibia for its Marine Resources Act (2000).

FAO was a member of the international jury which felt the three winning policies contribute most effectively to the sustainable management of the world’s oceans and coasts for the benefit of current and future generations.

The winners were announced today at the United Nations Headquarters in New York where Mr Carl Lewis, FAO Goodwill Ambassador, was also on hand.

Fact Sheet on the Future Policy Award, partners and winners

Anchored Fish Aggregating Devices (FADs) - advisory note

Mon, 24 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0100

The Regional Fisheries Livelihoods Programme for South and Southeast Asia (RFLP) has just published an advisory note to provide guidance to fisheries managers and fishers on the importance of proper planning and implementation of artisanal Fish Aggregating Devices (FADs) programmes using anchored FADs for livelihoods and food security.

Information and communications technology for small-scale fishers and fishing administrations - Lessons learned

Mon, 24 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0100

Information and communications technology can greatly benefit both fisheries administrations and fishing communities alike. The Regional Fisheries Livelihoods Programme for South and Southeast Asia (RFLP), funded by Spain and implemented by FAO, has used information and communications equipment in a wide range of initiatives. This paper highlights some of the benefits, lessons, tips and recommendations RFLP has learned through the use of technology.

New ‘vision’ needed for Asian trawl fisheries - Asia Pacific Fishery Commission

Thu, 4 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0100

The Asia-Pacific Fishery Commission (APFIC) calls for more effective management of the trawl sector in Asia, which balances the need to sustain marine fishery ecosystems with the demand for feeds for aquaculture.

New ‘vision’ needed for Asian trawl fisheries - Asia Pacific Fishery Commission

Sat, 29 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0100

The Asia-Pacific Fishery Commission (APFIC) has called for more effective management of the trawl sector in Asia, which balances the need to sustain marine fishery ecosystems with the demand for feeds for aquaculture.

Meeting in Da Nang, Viet Nam, APFIC members recognized the challenges facing the region’s fisheries including overfishing in coastal areas particularly from trawling and the use of non-selective fishing gears. At the same time the need to sustain the livelihoods of large numbers of small-scale fishers as well as to meet the demand for low value fish/trash fish for feeds in marine/coastal aquaculture was noted.

Five countries’ ocean and coastal policies shortlisted for the 2012 Future Policy Award

Wed, 26 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0100

Six policies from five countries are now shortlisted for the 2012 Future Policy Award, an international award that celebrates effective and exemplary policies. California, Namibia, Palau, the Philippines, and South Africa are still in the running. This year the topic of the award is the protection of oceans and coasts. Thirty-one different policies from 22 countries were nominated, ranging from integrated ocean and coastal policies, marine protected area programmes to laws regulating fisheries, trade in marine products, marine litter and land-sea interactions.

For this year’s theme the World Future Council is partnering with FAO, as well as the Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and the Global Environment Facility (GEF), with support from the Okeanos Foundation.

How is FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture making moves to guarantee sustainability towards 2050?

Wed, 12 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0100

Àrni M. Mathiesen, Assistant Director-General of the FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Department, reveals the efforts being made to harness ties between scientists, industry and policy-makers to guarantee the sustainability of fisheries and aquaculture towards 2050.
Read interview in International Innovation magazine

FAO Director-General welcomes new international declaration on oceans, fisheries

Wed, 12 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0100

14 August 2012, Yeosu, Republic of Korea/Rome - Highlighting the important role that marine ecosystems play in feeding the world, FAO Director-General JosÃ© Graziano da Silva said this weekend that the responsible and sustainable management of oceans and coasts must become "a global priority."

Making a difference with fish

Thu, 9 Aug 2012 12:00:00 +0100

Looking at how our oceans are a veritable repository of food resources yet facing challenges regarding the best sustainable use of those resources, FAO today wrapped-up a symposium on 'Alleviating hunger & poverty: making a difference with fish'.

Taking place during the final week of Expo 2012 in Yeosu, South Korea under the theme of "The Living Ocean and Coasts" and hosted by FAO and the Organizing Committee of Expo 2012, the two-day meeting of internationally-recognized leaders discussed how our oceans can contribute to solving the world food crisis.

Speakers set the stage by highlighting the positive benefits of fish for nutrition security - particularly for young children and pregnant women. Global fisheries leaders focused on governing fisheries to alleviate hunger. Providing innovative plans and perspectives, they covered a wide range of dimensions related to:
- the role of fish in food and nutrition security, in poverty reduction and in wealth creation
- how to best use technology for meeting increasing food demands
- development and food & nutrition security in the fisheries and aquaculture sectors
- strategies for raising awareness of the many contributions of fisheries and aquaculture.

Attended by some 300 participants, the discussions confirmed that fish can make a difference: fisheries and aquaculture have a vital role to play in securing global well-being and livelihoods - especially for small-island states as well as for the millions of small-scale fishers dependent on them.

Panelists also emphasized that continued and future growth must be accompanied by sound, responsible and sustainable development across the board and with a wide range of actors to ensure that our next generations can reap the riches and benefits of fisheries and aquaculture resources.

Regional Fisheries Bodies of Latin America and the Caribbean Meet in Rome, Italy

Thu, 19 Jul 2012 12:00:00 +0100

A First Meeting of Regional Fisheries and Aquaculture Organizations of Latin America and the Caribbean was held in Rome, Italy during the weeklong 30th session of the FAO Committee on Fisheries. Chaired by Mr. Alejandro Flores Nava, FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Officer, the participating Regional Fishery Bodies included: CCPS, RAA, COPESCAALC, CIAT/IATTC, OSPESCA, CRFM, OLDEPESCA, INFOPESCA and COPACO/WECAFC. At this first meeting information on various programmes of work was shared and opportunities for increasing collaboration were discussed. It was agreed that aquaculture and fisheries statistical data collection and analysis and information exchange and dissemination would be a first area of attention during 2012-2013. A first collaborative effort should take place in June 2013 in Chile, initiated by the Aquaculture Network for the Americas (RAA).

More information can be obtained from the secretariats of the participating RFBs:
CPPS (Comisión Permanente del Pacífico Sur)
RAA (Red de Acuicultura de las Américas)
COPESCAALC(Comisión de Pesca Continental y Acuicultura para América Latina y el Caribe)
COPACO/WECAFC Comisión de Pesca del Atlántico Centro Occidental), a>
CIAT/IATTC (Comisión Interamericana del Atún Tropical)
OSPESCA (Organización del Sector Pesquero y Acuícola de Centroamérica)
CRFM (Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism)
OLDEPESCA (Organización Latinoamericana de Desarrollo Pesquero)
CRFM (Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism)
INFOPESCA (Centro para los Servicios de Información y Asesoramiento sobre la Comercialización de los Productos Pesqueros en América Latina y El Caribe)

Highlights of the 30th session of COFI

Mon, 30 Jul 2012 12:00:00 +0100

Follow what's happening during the 30th session of COFI by reading the daily highlights:

Curtain raiser

Highlights for Day 1 - 9 July 2012

Highlights for Day 2 - 10 July 2012

Highlights for Day 3 - 11 July 2012

Highlights for Day 4 - 12 July 2012

Highlights for Day 5 & Summary - 13 July 2012

Fourth Meeting of Regional Fishery Body Secretariats Network - (RSN-4) (FI-609-4)

Mon, 9 Jul 2012 12:00:00 +0100

Information for Delegates to Meetings at FAO Headquarters

Webpage:
http://www.fao.org/fishery/rsn/en

The State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture - 2012

Thu, 19 Jul 2012 12:00:00 +0100

In addition to striving to meet the United Nations Millennium Development Goals, the global community is also grappling with other pressing and complex challenges such as the widespread economic crisis and the effects of climate change. It is in this context that this edition of The State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture highlights the vital role of fisheries and aquaculture in both food and nutrition security as well as economic expansion. The sector remains a major supplier of high-quality animal protein and supports the livelihoods and well-being of more than ten percent of the world’s population. International trade in fish has reached new peaks as overall production has continued to rise. Yet, as the document underlines, an array of problems – ranging from the need for more effective governance to that of ensuring environmental sustainability – threatens to undermine the sector’s valuable contribution to alleviating hunger and reducing poverty. Using the latest available statistics on fisheries and aquaculture, this edition presents a global analysis of the sector’s status and trends. It also examines broader related issues such as gender, emergency preparedness and the ecosystem approach to fisheries and aquaculture. Selected highlights, from ecolabelling and certification to the effects of fisheries management policies on fishing safety, provide insights on specific topics. Finally, the document looks at the opportunities and difficulties for capture fisheries in the coming decades.

Increased productivity and a more sustainable food system will improve global food security

Thu, 12 Jul 2012 12:00:00 +0100

OECD and FAO publish new Agricultural Outlook
While international agricultural commodity markets appear to have entered calmer conditions after record highs last year, food commodity prices are anticipated to remain on a higher plateau over the next decade, underpinned by firm demand but a slowing growth in global production, according to the latest OECD-FAO Agricultural Outlook.

Fisheries and aquaculture - enabling a vital sector to contribute more

Mon, 9 Jul 2012 12:00:00 +0100

FAO releases new State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture report.
Sustainable fisheries and aquaculture play a crucial role in food and nutrition security and in providing for the livelihoods of millions of people. FAO's latest flagship publication on the state of fisheries and aquaculture, launched at the opening of the 30th session of the FAO Committee on Fisheries, highlights the sector's vital contribution to the world's well-being and prosperity, a point reflected in the recent Rio+20 Outcome Document.
[more...].

COFI - Committee on Fisheries - 30th Session - (FI-701-30)

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0100

Information for Delegates to Meetings at FAO Headquarters

Web site

FAO/SPC Pacific Islands Regional Consultation on the Development of Guidelines for Securing Sustainable Small-Scale Fisheries

Tue, 3 Jul 2012 12:00:00 +0100

An FAO/ Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC) Pacific Islands Regional Consultation on the Development of Guidelines for Securing Sustainable Small-Scale Fisheries (SSF) was held in Noumea, New Caledonia, on 12-14 June 2012. The workshop was convened to allow for the sharing of policies and practices in support of small-scale fisheries in the region and thereby to contribute to the small-scale fisheries guidelines (“SSF Guidelines”), currently under development by the FAO Secretariat in close collaboration with its partners.

Listen to the interview

Aquatic Sciences and Fisheries Abstracts (ASFA) - Advisory Board Meeting

Wed, 7 Mar 2012 12:00:00 +0100

Meeting location:
Marine Institute Headquarters
Rinville, Oranmore,
Co. Galway, Ireland

Local meeting contact:
Ms. Anne Wilkinson anne.wilkinson@marine.ie Tel: +353-91-387200 Fax: +353-91-387201
and
Dr. Fintan Bracken fintan.bracken@marine.ie Tel: +353-91-387200 Fax: +353-91-387201

ASFA Website

Online fisheries statistics system – www.peskador.org – launched in Timor-Leste

Thu, 21 Jun 2012 12:00:00 +0100

An online national fisheries statistical system for Timor-Leste was launched today at a ceremony presided over by Mr Marcos da Cruz, Secretary of State for Agriculture and Fisheries. The system – www.peskador.org – provides public access to a wide range of statistical and environmental information relating to fisheries in Timor-Leste. This is the first time that such a system has been implemented in Timor-Leste and it is expected to be an important tool contributing to enhanced fisheries management and sustainability of marine resources. The site is operated by the National Directorate of Fisheries and Aquaculture (NDFA) and was established with the support of the Spanish-funded Regional Fisheries Livelihoods Programme for South and Southeast Asia (RFLP) which is implemented by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).

Sturgeon hatchery practices and management for release. Guidelines

Wed, 20 Jun 2012 12:00:00 +0100

Sturgeon hatcheries play an important role in the rehabilitation of the sturgeon stocks in the Caspian Sea and elsewhere. Since the demise of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics in 1991, a large part of the experience, expertise and specifi c knowledge on sturgeon hatchery practices and management in the Caspian Sea Basin has disappeared, while research and knowledge on sturgeon and hatchery practices in other regions have advanced rapidly in the last few decades. Sturgeon restocking practices that resulted in limited success have caused a critical reassessment of the entire culture process, the strategies applied for conservation culture, the design of rehabilitation programmes, the design of hatcheries and the mode of their operation. This technical paper aims to increase global awareness and to guide and build capacity about the best practices currently available by providing senior and mid-level sturgeon hatchery staff with a practical tool for modern sturgeon hatchery practices and management. The technical technical guidelines it contains focus on hatchery practices that are aimed at reproduction and growth of fry and fi ngerlings for restocking objectives. The technical guidelines address a wide range of issues, including: hatchery design and location; collection and transportation of wild broodstock; selection and maintenance of broodstock; tagging of sturgeon; water quality and supply; feeding and feed quality; selection of broodstock for controlled reproduction; spawning and gamete processing; rearing of larvae and juveniles in tanks; rearing of juveniles in ponds; release of fi ngerlings; sanitary and hygiene measures; hatchery documentation; hatchery maintenance and repair; staff and labour issues; monitoring and research; social and environmental responsibility; international regulations and conventions on sturgeons; and implementation and updating of these technical guidelines. This technical paper provides specifi c technical guidelines, justifi cations for these technical guidelines and suggestions to support their implementation. The guidance provided is based on the FAO Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries (1995) and contributes to the implementation of the Ramsar Declaration on Global Sturgeon Conservation (2006). As such, the technical guidelines in this paper are part of the capacity-building and awarenessraising efforts of the partners involved in their preparation in order to increase the success of sturgeon hatchery practices for release purposes. These partners include: FAO; World Sturgeon Conservation Society; International Union for Conservation of Nature; Caspian Environment Programme; United Nations Development Programme; 6th International Symposium on Sturgeon; World Bank; Institute of Hydroecology; and Central Asia and Caucasus Regional Fisheries and Aquaculture Commission.

More than 70 nations, private companies and international organizations declare support for Global Partnership for Oceans

Sat, 16 Jun 2012 12:00:00 +0100

RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil, June 16, 2012

Over 70 countries, civil society groups, private firms and international organizations have declared their support for the new Global Partnership for Oceans (GPO), signaling their commitment to work together around coordinated goals to restore the world’s oceans to health and productivity.

Among those throwing their public support behind a 'Declaration for Healthy and Production Oceans to Help Reduce Poverty' at the Rio+20 conference are 14 private firms and associations including some of the largest seafood purchasing companies in the world, representing over $6 billion per year in seafood sales, as well as one of the world’s largest cruise lines.

In total so far, 10 nations, 26 civil society groups, 14 private sector firms and associations, eight research institutions, five UN agencies and conventions, seven regional and multi-lateral organizations and six private foundations are supporting the Declaration. Further support is expected in the run-up to the formal Rio+20 Conference.

The Global Partnership for Oceans is a new and diverse coalition of public, private, civil society, research and multilateral interests working together for healthy and productive oceans. It was first announced in February 2012 by World Bank President Robert B. Zoellick at the World Oceans Summit and has been gathering growing support. ...click here to read the full press release

Discover FAO's Development Law Service

Thu, 14 Jun 2012 12:00:00 +0100

FAO's Development Law Service is the Organization's focal point for the legal aspects of development. A unique centre of international expertise and research, the Service is committed to promoting the design of workable and appropriate legal frameworks, such as the Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries.

Find out more about the scope and work of the Development Law Service.

FAO promotes sustainable small-scale fisheries

Thu, 14 Jun 2012 12:00:00 +0100

The FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Department is developing guidelines for small-scale fisheries - this week representatives in New Caledonia will run a regional workshop on the issue. FAO wants to work with fishing communities and organizations to create guidelines that will promote sustainable small-scale fisheries.

Nicole Franz, FAO fisheries analyst, spoke with Brian Abbott of the Australian Broadcast Company. Listen to the interview

FAO/SPC Pacific Islands Regional Consultation on the Development of Guidelines for Securing Sustainable Small-Scale Fisheries (SSF)

Tue, 22 May 2012 12:00:00 +0100

SPC: Climate Change and Fishing in the Pacific

Tue, 12 Jun 2012 12:00:00 +0100

Fifteen countries and territories are meeting in Noumea this week [8 June] to discuss how climate change will affect Pacific fisheries and how they can ensure fishing and aquaculture will continue contributing to their food security, livelihoods and community development. The meeting was organised by the Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC) and Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).

Future Policy Award celebrates solutions to save oceans and coasts

Tue, 12 Jun 2012 12:00:00 +0100

31 policies from 22 countries and regions nominated.
The list of nominees for this year's Future Policy Award is complete: 31 outstanding policies from 22 countries and regions are in the running for the best policy worldwide to protect oceans and coasts. The Future Policy Award celebrates policies that create better living conditions for current and future generations. It is granted by the World Future Council, an international policy research organisation that provides decision makers with effective policy solutions. Each year the World Future Council chooses one topic on which policy progress is particularly urgent. In 2012, the award is dedicated to exemplary coastal and ocean policies. The nominated polices range from national ocean policies, marine protected area programmes and integrated coastal zone management plans to policies regulating fisheries, trade in marine products, marine litter and land-sea interactions.

UN agency welcomes $66 million for agriculture and fishing projects in Saudi Arabia

Mon, 4 Jun 2012 12:00:00 +0100

The United Nations Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) today welcomed Saudi Arabia's contribution of $66 million to implement its technical assistance projects in the country, which aim to benefit small-scale agricultural producers and fishermen.

No sustainable development without hunger eradication

Thu, 31 May 2012 12:00:00 +0100

On the path to Rio+20, FAO calls for a future with both healthier people and healthier ecosystems.
Sustainable development cannot be realized unless hunger and malnutrition are eradicated, FAO said in a policy document prepared for the Rio+20 Summit to be held in June in Rio de Janeiro. 'We cannot call development sustainable while this situation persists, while nearly one out of every seven men, women and children are left behind, victims of undernourishment,' said FAO Director-General José Graziano da Silva.

Assessment and management of biotoxin risks in bivalve molluscs

Thu, 24 May 2012 12:00:00 +0100

The present document compiles the scientific information collected by the experts for the Joint FAO/IOC/WHO ad hoc Expert Consultation on biotoxins in bivalve molluscs held in Oslo, Norway, 26–30 September 2004 to answer the request of scientific advice expressed by the Codex Committee for Fish and Fishery Products (CCFFP). In order to satisfy the many requests received by FAO to disseminate the information collected over these years since 2004, the data and information available were edited and updated in 2009. The document is organized in three main parts that present scientific and technical information necessary for risk assessment, monitoring and surveillance programmes and, in addition, illustrate how the CCFFP used international expertise to advance and finalize international standards for bivalve molluscs.

International Guidelines on Bycatch Management and Reduction of Discards

Thu, 14 Jun 2012 12:00:00 +0100

These International Guidelines on Bycatch Management and Reduction of Discards were developed through a participatory process involving fisheries experts, fishery managers from governments, the fishing industry, academia and non-governmental and intergovernmental organizations. The guidelines are designed to provide guidance on management factors ranging from an appropriate regulatory framework to the components of a good data collection programme, and include the identification of key management considerations and measures necessary to ensure the conservation of target and non-target species, as well as affected habitats. These guidelines are voluntary and constitute an instrument of reference to help States and RFMO/As in formulating and implementing appropriate measures for the management of bycatch and reduction of discards in all fisheries and regions of the world.

Farming the Waters for People and Food - Proceedings of the Global Conference on Aquaculture 2010

Thu, 14 Jun 2012 12:00:00 +0100

The Global Conference on Aquaculture 2010 brought together a wide-range of experts and important stakeholders and reviewed the present status and trends in aquaculture development, evaluated the progress made in the implementation of the 2000 Bangkok Declaration and Strategy, addressed emerging issues relevant to aquaculture development, assessed opportunities and challenges for future aquaculture development and built consensus on advancing aquaculture as a global, sustainable and competitive food production sector. This volume, a yet another joint effort of FAO and NACA, brings you the outcome of the Global Conference on Aquaculture 2010, the much needed clear and comprehensive technical information on how aquaculture could be mobilized to alleviate global poverty and improve food and nutrition security in the coming decades.

Countries adopt global guidelines on tenure of land, forests, fisheries

Mon, 14 May 2012 12:00:00 +0100

Historic international agreement on how tenure and access rights to natural resources key to food production should be handled.
In a landmark decision the Committee on World Food Security (CFS) today endorsed a set of far-reaching global guidelines aimed at helping governments safeguard the rights of people to own or access land, forests and fisheries. The new Voluntary Guidelines on the Responsible Governance of Tenure of Land, Fisheries and Forests in the Context of National Food Security outline principles and practices that governments can refer to when making laws and administering land, fisheries and forests rights.

GFCM - General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean - 36th Session (FI-716-36) -- Committee on Compliance (CoC) - 6th Session -- Committee on Administration and Finance (CAF) - 3rd Session

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 12:00:00 +0100

ONLINE Registration (Hotel-Meeting) and Meeting documents:
GFCM 36 | CoC 6 | CAF 3 | Task Force

Risk Analysis for Movements of Live Aquatic Animals - An introductory training course

Mon, 7 May 2012 12:00:00 +0100

Risk analysis is complex subject that is best learned by actual experience. This manual will assist national competent authorities and others involved in the assessment and management of risks associated with the international or domestic moment of live aquatic animals in training professional staff and raising awareness and understanding among other stakeholders of the principles and methodology of risk analysis. Using the training course manual and the recommended supplementary materials, responsible managers will be able to train staff in the planning and supervision of risk analyses. The training course will also assist specialists in the fields of disease, genetics or ecology of aquatic animals to successfully conduct risk analyses in a manner that incorporates best scientific knowledge, is transparent and includes adequate stakeholder consultation. Using a structured step-wise process, the training course guides trainees through the risk analysis process as applied in the analysis of ecological, genetic and pathogen risks. Through the use of a series of lectures (provided on an accompanying CD in the form of 11 PowerPoint presentations), and using case studies and a series of five linked working group exercises that should be adapted by trainers to reflect local situations and priorities, the course provides an in-depth look at risk analysis as currently applied for evaluation of risks due to pathogens (import risk analysis). Trainees are guided from the initial process of establishing a commodity description and scoping a risk analysis through to conducting the four risk analysis components of hazard identification, risk assessment, risk management and risk communication. They are also encouraged to evaluate their national experiences with introductions and transfers of live aquatic animals, and to assess their current capacity, and any policy, legislative or technical improvements needed to effectively implement risk analysis for the safe movements of live aquatic animals.

IOTC - Indian Ocean Tuna Commission - 16th Session (FI-733-16)

Tue, 16 Aug 2011 12:00:00 +0100

For further information and documentation click here

IOTC - Indian Ocean Tuna Commission - Compliance Committee - 9th Session

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 12:00:00 +0100

For further information and documentation click here

Review of the state of world marine fishery resources

Fri, 4 May 2012 12:00:00 +0100

Marine fisheries are very important to the economy and well-being of coastal communities, providing food security, job opportunities, income and livelihoods as well as traditional cultural identity. Maintaining the long-term prosperity and sustainability of marine fisheries is not only of political and social significance but also of economic and ecological importance. FAO has just published the Review of the state of world marine fishery resources, a comprehensive, objective and global review of the state of the living marine resources of the oceans. It is based mainly on official catch statistics up until 2009 and relevant stock assessment and other complementary information available until 2010. The document summarizes the information available for each FAO Statistical Area; discusses the major trends and changes that have occurred with the main fishery resources exploited in each area; and reviews the stock assessment work undertaken in support of fisheries management in each region. The total production of marine fishery resources has declined gradually after reaching a peak in landings in 1996. The world’s fisheries and aquaculture sectors have gone through a dramatic development in the last 60 years with large increases in production: total world fish production was only 19.3 million tonnes in 1950 and by 2009 reached 163 million tonnes.

2010-2011 aquaculture information products now on CD-ROM

Wed, 28 Mar 2012 12:00:00 +0100

The Aquaculture Service of the FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Department has updated its biennual publications collection. FAO aquaculture information products 2010-2011, available on CD-ROM, contains all the aquaculture publications produced in 2010-11 in PDF format.

FAO Aquaculture Newsletter 48

Wed, 28 Mar 2012 12:00:00 +0100

FAO Aquaculture Newsletter (FAN) is issued three times a year in the form of printed newsletter by the FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Department. It presents articles and views from the FAO aquaculture programme and highlights various aspects of aquaculture as seen from the perspective of both headquarters and the field programme. Articles are contributed by FAO staff from within and outside the Department, from FAO regional offices and field projects, by FAO consultants and, occasionally, by invitation from other sources. FAN is distributed free of charge to all FAO member countries and has a current circulation of about 1 500 copies. It is also available online at: http://www.fao.org/fishery/publications/fan/

Near East and North Africa Regional Consultation Workshop on the development of Guidelines for Securing Sustainable Small-Scale Fisheries (SSF)

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 12:00:00 +0100

The objectives of the workshop are: to support the Small-Scale Fisheries (SSF) development process by providing inputs and advice, both with regard to good policies and practices in the North Africa and Middle East region and in respect to overall principles and contents; to start addressing implementation issues. The development of the Guidelines should become an integral part of ongoing governance and development processes in support of small-scale fisheries. The workshop aims to promote this integration and cross-linkages between the Guidelines and regional policy and action.

CIFAA - FAO-NEPAD Seminar of the Permanent Secretaries or Equivalent in the Ministries in charge of Inland Fisheries and Aquaculture in CIFAA Member States on the: Review of the Committee on Inland Fisheries and Aquaculture of Africa (CIFAA)

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 12:00:00 +0100

Prospectus:
English | Français

COFI - Sub-Committee on Aquaculture - 6th Session (FI-702-6)

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0100

Web site

Review of tropical reservoirs and their fisheries – The cases of Lake Nasser, Lake Volta and Indo-Gangetic Basin reservoirs

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 12:00:00 +0100

Freshwaters contribute 15 percent of the world’s reported fish catch, or about 10.1 million tonnes in 2006, most of which comes from tropical systems. The true contribution of tropical inland fisheries is likely to be higher, as less than half of the inland capture production is actually reported. While reservoir fisheries are already an essential component of this production, the potential of most of them may even exceed their current catch levels. Opportunities exist to increase productivity, provided that environmentally and socially sustainable management systems can be adopted. To realize this untapped potential, it is necessary to improve understanding of the processes influencing reservoir productivity in such a way as to involve both biological principles and stakeholder participation, as each reservoir has different properties and different research and management institutions. Seen in isolation, catch and productivity data of individual reservoirs may be difficult to interpret. The present technical paper attempts to address this issue by reviewing the knowledge accumulated in reservoirs in some very different tropical river basins: the Indus and Ganges/Brahmaputra Basin in India, the Nile River Basin in Eastern Africa and the Volta River Basin in West Africa. In particular, it focuses on many of the reservoirs of northern India and Pakistan in the Indus and Ganges systems, Lake Nasser in the Nile River and Lake Volta in the Volta River. Information collated from grey and published literature on the three basins is synthesized and standardized with reference to wider knowledge and up-to-date information on tropical reservoir fisheries. A considerable quantity of data and information were collected on many aspects of the systems of the three reservoirs, including hydrological, biophysical and limnological features, primary production, and fish and fisheries data. This information was condensed and synthesized with the aim of providing a baseline against which the ecological changes that have taken place since impoundment can be described and analysed. Efforts are made to explain changes in fish catch in relation to climatic variations, ecological succession and fishing effort. The review shows that biological data and information are generally available. However, as is also common elsewhere, all three cases suffer from the general tendency to isolate and compartmentalize research into separate disciplines. Usually, there is very limited cross-disciplinary flow of information or recognition of how results of various disciplines can contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the behaviour of fish populations, human communities and ecosystems and the productive activities that depend on them. This uniform tendency severely hampered the identification of relevant management actions. A more pragmatic and holistic understanding of reservoir ecosystems is needed in order to guide the choice of indicators and the development of monitoring systems that can inform management of changes in reservoir productivity and, hence, the potential catch. The next step would be to devise a hierarchy of indicators describing the different ecological and economic processes influencing fisheries catches and to organize monitoring systems around those indicators. Only by combining information across sectoral disciplines will it be possible to reach a better understanding of the processes that drive fish stocks, fisheries and reservoir productivity.

Consensus reached on guidelines for land tenure and access to fisheries and forests

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 12:00:00 +0100

Negotiating group sends text to Committee on World Food Security for final approval.
International talks convened at FAO last week to finalize negotiations on a proposed set of voluntary global guidelines on responsible governance of land tenure and access rights to land, fisheries and forest resources have concluded successfully. The proposed guidelines are now set to be considered for final approval by the Committee on World Food Security (CFS) at a special session in Rome in mid-May.

CECAF - Fishery Committee for the Eastern Central Atlantic - 20th Session (RAF-740-20)

Wed, 7 Mar 2012 12:00:00 +0100

FAO Aquaculture photo library now online

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 12:00:00 +0100

A collection of over 1600 high-resolution aquaculture images is now available online. The FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Department's Aquaculture Service published this vast library using photos that focus on global aquaculture practices from the FAO historical archive and Aquaculture Service staff. Users are invited to submit their photos.

Consecuencias del cambio climático para la pesca y la acuicultura

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 12:00:00 +0100

Los tres estudios técnicos presentados y discutidos en el Taller de expertos sobre las consecuencias del cambio climático para la pesca y la acuicultura (Roma, 7-9 de abril de 2008) exponen una visión de conjunto del estado actual de los conocimientos científicos sobre las consecuencias del cambio climático en la pesca y la acuicultura. La Introducción de documento técnico presenta un resumen de los resultados del taller y las conclusiones sobre los efectos del cambio climático en los ecosistemas acuáticos y en los medios de vida relacionados con la pesca y la acuicultura. . El primer estudio examina las repercusiones físicas y ecológicas del cambio climático en las pesquerías de captura marina y continental y en la acuicultura. El estudio comienza con una revisión de los efectos físicos del cambio climático en los sistemas marinos y de aguas dulces para luego relacionar estos cambios con los efectos observados en los procesos de producción pesquera. Partiendo de estudios de casos realizados en diferentes regiones y ecosistemas, se bosquejan diversas hipótesis referidas a las consecuencias del cambio climático para la producción pesquera y los ecosistemas. El segundo estudio se ocupa de los efectos del cambio climático en las pesquerías y comunidades pesqueras analizando la exposición, susceptibilidad y vulnerabilidad de las pesquerías y proponiendo algunos ejemplos de mecanismos de adaptación actuales a que se ha recurrido en el sector. Se examina la contribución de las actividades pesqueras a las emisiones de gases de efecto invernadero y se sugieren ejemplos de estrategias de mitigación. También se investiga el papel de la política pública y de las instituciones en la promoción de las medidas de adaptación al cambio climático y de mitigación de sus efectos. Por último, el tercer estudio se ocupa de los efectos del cambio climático en la acuicultura. El estudio entrega una visión general de la producción de peces mediante la acuicultura y una síntesis de los trabajos hasta ahora realizados sobre los efectos del cambio climático en la acuicultura y en las pesquerías. El trabajo está enfocado en las repercusiones directas e indirectas –en términos de biodiversidad, enfermedades de los peces y producción de harina de pescado– del cambio climático en la acuicultura. Asimismo, se estudia la contribución de la acuicultura al cambio climático (emisiones y absorción de carbono) y las posibles medidas de adaptación y mitigación que se podrían aplicar.

Technical Consultation on Flag State Performance (FI-805) - Resumed Session

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 12:00:00 +0100

Meeting location:
Viale delle Terme di Caracalla
00153 Rome Italy

Chairperson’s report
Resumed sesion (5-9 March 2012)

Chairperson’s draft text
Text as at 9 March 2012

Chairperson’s report
First session (2-6 May 2011)

Chairperson’s draft text
Text as at 9 May 2011

Information for Delegates to Meetings at FAO Headquarters

Documents contributed by Members
Documents can be provided electronically to the Secretary (david.doulman@fao.org) at any time. In keeping with FAO practice they will be posted in the original language. Under exceptional circumstances, and depending on the availability of extrabudgetary funds, efforts will be made to translate documents.

Visas

Marine protected areas: country case studies on policy, governance and institutional issues

Fri, 2 Mar 2012 12:00:00 +0100

This document presents case studies of the policy, governance and institutional issues of marine protected areas (MPAs) in Brazil, India, Palau and Senegal. It is the first of four in a global series of case studies on MPAs. An initial volume provides a synthesis and analysis of all the studies. The set of global MPA case studies was designed to close a deficit in information on the governance of MPAs and spatial management tools, within both fisheries management and biodiversity conservation contexts. The studies examine governance opportunities in and constraints on the use of spatial management measures at the national level. They were also designed to inform implementation of the FAO Technical Guidelines on marine protected areas (MPAs) and fisheries, which were developed to provide information and guidance on the use of MPAs in the context of fisheries.

Focus on Africa: FAO seminar at North Atlantic Seafood Conference

Thu, 1 Mar 2012 12:00:00 +0100

African coastal nations will attend the North Atlantic Seafood Forum (NASF) business arena for the first time. The FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Department is partnering with the NASF during its 7th conference to be held in Oslo 6-8 March 2012. Invited by FAO, a delegation of around 30 African officials and seafood industry leaders, headed by Ministers from Ghana, Mauritius, Morocco, Mozambique and Namibia, and top Ministry officials from Angola and South Africa, will attend. FAO will present two major themes: African export opportunities and market access into Europe; and inward investments and financing of the fisheries and aquaculture industries in Africa. Full programme of NASF Conference

FAO supports new global partnership on oceans

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 12:00:00 +0100

New Global Partnership to Bring Powerful Forces Together for Healthy Oceans

A powerful coalition of governments, international organizations, civil society groups and private interests are joining together under the banner of a Global Partnership for Oceans to to advance mutually agreed goals for healthy and productive oceans. Underscoring the importance of oceans to the world’s developing economies, the partnership, announced in a keynote speech at The Economist’s World Oceans Summit by World Bank Group President Robert B. Zoellick, would bring science, advocacy, the private sector, and international public institutions together and build on the excellent work already being done.

See World Bank news

GFCM - Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC) - 14th Session

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 12:00:00 +0100

Concept Note | Meeting documents

COFI - Sub-Committee on Fish Trade - 13th Session - (FI-709-13)

Tue, 26 Jun 2012 12:00:00 +0100

Report

Web site

FAO Yearbook of Fishery and Aquaculture Statistics

Fri, 2 Mar 2012 12:00:00 +0100

The FAO Yearbook of Fishery and Aquaculture Statistics is a compilation of data on capture production, aquaculture production and commodities. The complete yearbook package for each of these categories - all the key information and statistical tables - is contained on one CD-ROM. An accompanying booklet includes general notes, concepts and classifications, and summary tables as well as a pull-out map of FAO major fishing areas. This issue also includes statistics on apparent fish consumption derived from FAO food balance sheets and notes on the major trends and issues relating to the individual statistical sets.

Appui au développement de l’aquaculture marine à Djibouti

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 12:00:00 +0100

Comment développer l’aquaculture en République de Djibouti ? C’est autour de ce thème qu’une importante réunion a été tenue mercredi dernier au ministère de l’Agriculture. Et ce, quelques jours seulement après la mise en mer de trois premières cages d’élevage de poissons avec l’expertise de la FAO et de la communauté de pécheurs de Loyada. Lisez l'article du 'Journal La Nation'

New efforts to implement international fisheries agreements in the Western Central Atlantic region

Thu, 9 Feb 2012 12:00:00 +0100

The Western Central Atlantic Fishery Commission (WECAFC), a body of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), convened in Panama City for its 14th biennial session from 6-9 February 2012, has adopted a resolution that will mark significant progress toward sustainable fisheries management in the region.

The Resolution on Strengthening the Implementation of International Fisheries Instruments calls upon WECAFC members to become party to legally binding international fisheries instruments where this has not yet been done. It also urges the members to take action and measures to strengthen implementation of existing international fisheries instruments, including those that are legally binding and Guidelines that are widely adopted at national and regional levels on a voluntary basis.

The Resolution was triggered by deep concern about the declining fish catches in the Caribbean region, the increased percentage of overexploited and depleted reef fish stocks, the fact that the situation seems critical for some highly migratory, straddling and other fishery resources that are exploited solely or partially in the high seas, and the overall reduction of 30 percent during the past decade in capture fisheries in Western Central Atlantic region (FAO Area 31).

The international fisheries instruments have been carefully negotiated by the international community in response to the recognized need to cooperate to address issues of deep concern to ensure the sustainability of the fisheries resources, including: the FAO Compliance agreement (1993), the UN Fish Stocks Agreement (1995), the FAO Port States Measures Agreement (2009), the FAO Technical Guidelines on the Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries (2003), the FAO International Guidelines for the Management of Deep-sea Fisheries in the High Seas (2008) and the FAO International Guidelines on Bycatch Management and Reduction of Discards (2010).

The Commission also agreed to establish a WECAFC Working Group on the management of deep-sea fisheries. The Working Group will inform the management of such fisheries by WECAFC members with the objective of promoting responsible fisheries that provide economic opportunities while ensuring the conservation of marine living resources and the protection of marine biodiversity.

The Commission is comprised of thirty-two countries and the European Union. The members’ commitment to responsible fisheries is high and it was widely agreed that enduring positive results can only be achieved through continuing the general spirit of cooperation and constructiveness that animated the debate at the 14th session.

The 14th session was kindly hosted by the Aquatic Resources Authority of Panama on behalf of the Government of Panama.

Workshop on International Guidelines for Securing Sustainable Small-Scale Fisheries (VG-SSF)

Tue, 29 May 2012 12:00:00 +0100

The overall purpose of the Workshop is to contribute to a first preliminary draft of the SSF Guidelines and to provide recommendations for possible considerations and actions needed to promote and support the implementation of the SSF Guidelines. Furthermore, the workshop offers advice to the FAO Secretariat with regard to the road map and next steps in the SSF Guidelines development process and what additional actions may be required to ensure that a negotiated document can be presented to COFI in 2014 for approval.

Report

Theme of Future Policy Award 2012: Oceans and Coasts

Tue, 7 Feb 2012 12:00:00 +0100

World Future Council partners with CBD, GEF and FAO to present awards in Hyderabad, India
Hamburg/Montreal/Washington D.C., Rome
Over 70 per cent of the earth is covered in oceans and major seas. Their health is a prerequisite for the survival of humanity. Yet, they are degrading fast. In order to address this pressing issue the World Future Council (WFC) announced today that it will present its Future Policy Award 2012 to the world’s most inspiring, innovative and influential policies on the protection of oceans and coasts.

The prestigious Future Policy Award is the first and only award that celebrates policies rather than people at the international level.

When announcing the topic of oceans and coasts, Alexandra Wandel, Director of the World Future Council, said: "With the Future Policy Award we want to cast a spotlight on policies that lead by example. The aim of the World Future Council is to raise global awareness of visionary policies and speed up policy action in the interests of present and future generations."

This year's award ceremony will take place in Hyderabad, India in October 2012. It will be hosted by the World Future Council in partnership with the UN Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), and with the support of the Okeanos Foundation.

Ahmed Djoghlaf, Executive Secretary of the Convention on Biological Diversity, said: “Ocean ecosystems harbour an incredible diversity of life. Policy-makers have a critical role to play in preserving this biodiversity, as poor management of marine and coastal environments is the root cause of biodiversity loss and degradation of these vital ecosystems.”

Monique Barbut, CEO of the Global Environment Facility, commented: “Developing countries are now becoming much more active in restoring and protecting their coastal oceans. With a portfolio of over 100 countries using GEF grants to improve the condition of oceans and coasts, we are delighted to partner with the World Future Council in its endeavour to identify, award, and promote adoption of these critical policies.“

Árni Mathiesen, Assistant Director-General of FAO's Fisheries and Aquaculture Department, said: “Humanity depends on the sustainable management of the marine environment to realise the Human Right to Food. Over a billion people rely on oceans as a source of protein and over half a billion people are dependent on oceans and coasts for their livelihoods. This is why it is so important to promote policies that successfully address the multiple threats to oceans and the coastal communities that depend on them for their livelihoods.”

Nominations for the Future Policy Award are received from a select group of international organisations as well as from Councillors and advisors of the World Future Council. A research team screens all nominated policies according to the seven principles for sustainable development law that were presented at the 2002 Johannesburg World Summit on Sustainable Development. As a result, an evaluation report is presented to the international jury composed of experts from all five continents.

The winning policies will be announced at the United Nations Headquarters in September 2012. The award ceremony on October 16 will be part of the11th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD COP-11) in Hyderabad.

Review of the State of the World Fishery Resources: Inland Fisheries

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 12:00:00 +0100

The fishery statistics reported to FAO by countries and maintained in the FishStat database are analysed for trends in quantity and composition of catches from 1950 to 2009. Catches have been increasing at a steady rate throughout the period. Fish from inland water capture fisheries are an important source of animal protein, especially in landlocked countries and for populations riparian to lakes and rivers. Finfish contribute about 90 percent of the catch together with some crustaceans and molluscs. The accuracy of reporting of catches by taxonomic group has improved with time and more groups are being reported in 2009 than in 1950. At the same time, the percentage of catches assigned to the generic “freshwater fishes NEI” category has declined. Trends in catches and taxonomic groups are analysed for subcontinental regions under a more general continental heading. The regions are divided mainly by geography, although in some cases economic and political considerations are used. Catches in the various regions of Africa, Asia and South and Central America have risen steadily over the period of the review, although there are local exceptions to the general trend. There is clear evidence that such increases are real in some individual fisheries, but generally the increases are attributed to improvements in reporting, whereby catches that were already there but previously ignored are now being incorporated into the reports. Catches in North America, and most of Europe, have declined in the same period, which is attributed to shifts in economic conditions that make fishing not longer financially viable, and a greater public demand for recreational fishing. Catches from eastern Europe and the Russian Federation declined from a maximum in the 1980s, but have shown some signs of recovery in the last decade. In general, the world’s inland fisheries still appear viable although environmental pressures, such as damming, water abstraction and overexploitation, pose a potential threat to the maintenance of present levels of reproduction and recruitment, and hence, ultimately catch.

WECAFC - Western Central Atlantic Fishery Commission - 14th Session (FI-739-14)

Wed, 28 Dec 2011 12:00:00 +0100

Information | Note d'information | Nota informativa

Meeting documents

GFCM - Committee on Aquaculture - 13th SIPAM Annual Meeting

Tue, 8 Jan 2013 12:00:00 +0100

Information to participants

Governance of marine protected areas in least-developed countries. Case studies

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0100

This document is a synthesis of Les aires marines protégées d’Afrique de l’Ouest. Gouvernance et politiques publiques (Weigel et. al, 2007) which proposes an analytical framework to study the governance of MPAs in the LDCs, drawing on four sources of inspiration: (i) the interactive fisheries governance approach; (ii) the risk governance approach; (iii) the socioanthropology of mediations and brokerage; and (iv) the governance analytical framework. The framework indicates the five issues that must be addressed in order to operationalize the concept of governance in LDC MPAs: (i) definition of the problem or the issue at stake; (ii) identification of the set of relevant governance norms; (iii) presentation of the actors involved in the governance process; (iv) highlighting the nodes around which actors’ strategies converge; and (v) recalling the processes that have led to the current state of governance. This analytical framework makes it possible to characterize the governance system of each of the MPAs considered and to develop a typology of these systems. The characterization of different governance systems highlights their weaknesses and paves the way for new public policy options and, more generally, for the restructuring of governance to correct these weaknesses. In order to develop an analytical framework and the characterization of governance systems the main MPA governance principles and constraints, as well their legal context, were clarified. This was done by testing the proposed methodology in three West African coastal and marine protected areas, which illustrated the difficulties of governance in LDCs: the Banc d’Arguin National Park in Mauritania, the Saloum Delta Biosphere Reserve in Senegal, and the Bolama Bijagos Archipelago Biosphere Reserve in Guinea-Bissau. The analysis of demographic and economic constraints in these West African MPAs showed the importance of: (i) increasing population density and mobility; (ii) the intensification of resource exploitation; and (iii) and the opening of the MPA economy. The analysis of the legal and institutional contexts showed the international inspiration of the MPA objectives and conservation arrangements, and the syncretism of the legal system.

Turning Points in Modern Aquaculture

Wed, 1 Feb 2012 12:00:00 +0100

This 15-minute video presents film clips and photos taken in various countries depicting the range of people, species, environments, systems, practices as well as opportunities and challenges facing aquaculture. Viewers take a historical journey to the major turning points in aquaculture development since the early and first aquaculture practice by a Chinese named Fan Li two millennia ago. These four watersheds span 25 years from the Kyoto Strategy on Aquaculture Development (1976), to the establishment of the Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries (1995) through to The Bangkok Declaration and Strategy for Aquaculture (2000) and immediately followed by the creation of the Committee on Fisheries Sub-Committee on Aquaculture (2001) - enough to nourish its development through the next 25 so that aquaculture, now the fastest growing food producing sector can serve the people better, and communities and nations continue to prosper.
This video was produced by the Aquaculture Service of the FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Department for the Global Conference on Aquaculture 2010 and the Fifth session of the COFI Sub-Committtee on Aquaculture held in Phuket, Thailand in October 2010.

Green investments in the marine sector can bring tide of economic and social benefits

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0100

Sustainable fishing, shipping and tourism among sectors that could create jobs and growth.
Healthy seas and coasts would pay healthy dividends in a green economy, according to a report released by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), International Maritime Organization (IMO), United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN-DESA), International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), WorldFish Center and GRID-Arendal, that highlights the huge potential for economic growth and poverty eradication from well-managed marine sectors. The report, Green Economy in a Blue World, argues that the ecological health and economic productivity of marine and coastal ecosystems, which are currently in decline around the globe, can be boosted by shifting to a more sustainable economic approach that taps their natural potential - from generating renewable energy and promoting eco-tourism, to sustainable fisheries and transport.

Lampreys of the world

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0100

Lampreys are aquatic, jawless vertebrates widely found in the Northern and Southern hemispheres, but virtually absent in the intervening tropical zone. Lampreys undergo a radical metamorphosis from the larval to the adult form. The adults vary considerably: some are parasitic and anadromous, others parasitic but restricted to fresh water, while still others are nonparasitic (non–feeding) and restricted to fresh water. A new issue of the FAO Species Catalogue for Fishery Purposes presents an annotated and illustrated catalogue of lamprey species known to date. It explains and illustrates the taxonomic characters used to describe ammocoetes and adults; presents a key to adults and a partial key to larvae and provides an account for each of the 39 species with information on the taxonomy including synonyms, common names, diagnostic features of ammocoetes and adults (with drawings of the adult body and oral disc), habitat and biology, geographic distribution (with map), interest to fisheries and references.

Technical guidelines for marine protected areas and fisheries

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0100

The FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Department has just published FAO Technical Guidelines for Responsible Fisheries. on the management of marine protected area and fisheriesThe document has been developed to provide information and guidance on the use of marine protected areas (MPAs) in the context of fisheries, looking specifically at fisheries features of MPAs as well as addressing the interface between fisheries management and biodiversity conservation and provide support for MPAs with multiple objectives. The Guidelines, divided into two sections to provide both background information and planning considerations, highlights the need for increased coordination across sectors and agencies/departments. Integration of diverse interests and viewpoints is required if we are to successfully manage our oceans and their resources for future generations. As with all fisheries management, good governance – including adequate stakeholder participation – is key to successful and equitable management outcomes.

Demand and supply of feed ingredients for farmed fish and crustaceans

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0100

A recently published FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Technical Paper, Demand and supply of feed ingredients for farmed fish and crustaceans: trends and prospects, looks at the dietary feeding practices used for producing the major cultured-fed species, and the total global production and market availability of the major feed ingredient sources used including their future demand, in view of aquaculture’s current 8-10% average growth. The paper recommends approaches to nutritionally sound and safe feed ingredient selection and usage for the major species of cultivated fish and crustaceans in order to keep pace with the growth of the fed finfish and crustacean aquaculture sector.

Aquaculture in desert and arid lands: Developments and constraints

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0100

A recent FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Proceedings, Aquaculture in desert and arid lands: Developments and constraints, is now available online. Based on a FAO technical workshop, it highlights that aquaculture has great potential for expansion not only in marine offshore areas, but also in desert and arid lands (covering 20 percent of the world land mass) with surface and/or subsurface water resources. Underground water certainly represents an opportunity for poor farming communities living in arid and isolated areas. Applying water-saving strategies, including use of run-off water and integration of aquaculture with agriculture practices, has demonstrated the good performance of fish/vegetable co-culture systems even in very arid and remote areas.

Mud crab aquaculture - A practical manual

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0100

The last decade has seen a rapid expansion in the farming of several mud crab species in China, the Philippines and Viet Nam in particular. A new FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Technical Paper, Mud crab aquaculture - A practical manual, provides an introduction to all aspects of mud crab aquaculture. It contains a useful reference source for existing farmers, researchers and extension officers active in the industry and comprehensive baseline information for those in countries or companies interested in investing in this aquaculture sector. This first-ever FAO aquaculture manual on this genus covers everything from basic biology and aquaculture production,through stock packaging and readying for market.

FAO global capture fisheries production database: catching the trend

Thu, 29 Dec 2011 12:00:00 +0100

With data series extending for 60 years, including catch data for almost 1850 species items, and reflecting geo-political, historical and natural events, the FAO capture fisheries production database provides a service to the community interested in fishery information.

In the last 15 years, over 600 articles from refereed journals have cited the database. The species included in the database have grown significantly in the last decade and an analysis of annual reporting has shown more timely data submissions, although the number of non-reporting countries remained stable throughout the years. An evaluation of data quality found over half developing countries reporting inadequately but also one-fourth of reports by developed countries were not satisfactory.

A recent article in Marine Policy, a journal published by Elsevier, provides meta information on historical developments, data sources and coverage, and advice on what should be kept in mind when using the database for trend studies.
Consult Marine Policy online here.

State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture (SOFIA) in Japanese

Wed, 28 Dec 2011 12:00:00 +0100

A Japanese summary of SOFIA, the flagship publication of the FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Department, is now available online.

FAO and ILO partnering on child labor in fisheries

Tue, 27 Dec 2011 12:00:00 +0100

Draft document in the works provides guidance and advice to governments.
FAO and the International Labor Organization have released the first draft of a guidance document that aims to help policymakers and government authorities tackle the thorny issue of child labor in fisheries.

Another gap in global coverage of fisheries management resolved

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 12:00:00 +0100

Central Asian and Caucasus Regional Fisheries and Aquaculture Commission Inaugurated

The Central Asian and Caucasus Regional Fisheries and Aquaculture Commission (CACFish) was officially inaugurated at a meeting opened by FAO’s Assistant Director-General for Fisheries and Aquaculture, Árni M. Mathiesen.

Concluding a preparatory process which started in November 2008, the Members of the Commission, in collaboration with Observers, endorsed the Rules of Procedures, Financial Regulations, 5-Year Regional Work Programme, Logo and a range of technical advice and recommendations.

Since early 2011, the Commission, a statutory body of the FAO, has been active in promoting the development, conservation, rational management and best utilization of living aquatic resources and the sustainable development of aquaculture in its member countries. CACFish fills a gap in the global map of regional fishery bodies, aiming to ensure that the fish stocks in inland waters of Central Asia and the Caucasus are properly managed to benefit current and future generations.

Technical advice endorsed by the meeting for region wide implementation includes:
•Guidelines for Sturgeon Hatchery practices and management for release;
•Recommendations of the Regional Study on the “Feasibility of Restocking and Culture-based Fisheries in Central Asia”;
•Better Management Practices for Carp Production in Central and Eastern Europe, Caucasus and Central Asia; and
•Conclusions and Recommendations of the Regional Workshop on Fishery and Aquaculture Statistics, Information, and Trends: Improving Data Collection, Analyses and Dissemination.

Mr Mathiesen opened the Session and stressed FAO’s commitment to continued support in the Region. In reviewing the history of CACFish he congratulated the Members at this historic moment and wished the new Regional Fishery Body a bright future in carrying out its duties, which are of paramount importance for future generations.

In his acceptance speech, the Chairperson of the Commission, Mr Nihad Pakdel (Turkey) called upon the observer states to speed-up their national acceptance processes for membership of the Commission. He expressed his desire to bring on board all Central Asian and Caucasus countries and that he would make every possible effort towards this, as only genuine regional collaboration can alleviate the crisis in the region’s fisheries. The Members thanked the Government of Turkey for its generous contribution to the establishment process of the Commission.

The chairmanship, supported by vice-chairs from Kyrgyzstan and Armenia, stressed the importance of finalizing the regional strategy on responsible introductions and transfers of fish species, as well as the significance of the ongoing work on fisheries co-management and sustainable aquaculture in the region. They emphasized that priority should be given to further capacity building on fisheries and aquaculture in the region, which is largely composed of former Soviet States.

Ongoing national and regional level projects of FAO, in close cooperation with the Governments of Turkey and Finland, are providing technical advice and guidance to the Commission; a number of projects and programmes are under development to assist individual member countries and potential donors are being approached.

The Secretariat of the Commission is provided by FAO's Sub-regional Office for Central Asia in Ankara, Turkey. The Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) of the Commission was established by the meeting. Ms Svetlana Balkhova (Tajikistan) was elected chairperson. The first session of the TAC is scheduled to take place in Ukraine in September 2012.

Meeting documents in Russian and English

CACFish - Inaugural meeting of the Central Asian and Caucasus Regional Fisheries and Aquaculture Commission

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0100

FAO Sub-regional Office for Central Asia (SEC) - Ankara, Turkey (CACFish-Secretariat@fao.org)

Photo of participants

Caribbean Region Embraces the FAO Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 12:00:00 +0100

The FAO Code of Conduct is highly regarded and used as main framework for fisheries policy development and planning at regional level in the Caribbean. This is seen in important recent initiatives (e.g. Caribbean Community Common Fisheries Policy and the St. Lucia Declaration on Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing). The Caribbean states and regional organizations (including CRFM, OSPESCA, WECAFC, OECS) have made major efforts in the implementation and monitoring of the Code, many of which were successful and deserve wide recognition and follow-up.

The Regional Policy and Planning Workshop on the FAO Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries in the Caribbean, Achieving Improved Fisheries Management and Utilization in the Wider Caribbean Region, held in Barbados 6-9 December 2011, discussed the constraints encountered when applying the Code in the Caribbean region and identified solutions that would enable stakeholders to further mainstream their policies, strategies and management plans with the Code.

The workshop paid particular attention to increasing awareness and capacity in the region on the Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries (EAF), International Plan of Action for the conservation and management of Sharks (IPOA-Sharks) and the ongoing work on the Voluntary Guidelines on securing sustainable Small-scale fisheries.

Ideas and recommendations discussed include:
•The absence of proper legal frameworks should not delay efforts to promote the implementation of the Code.
•Linkages and collaboration should be improved between the fisheries sector and other sectors in terms of implementation of certain aspects of the Code, such as the integration of fisheries into coastal zone management.
•Fisherfolk organizations, in particular those of small-scale fishers should be strengthened in order to become true partners in the implementation of the Code and responsible fisheries management in general.
•The Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries (EAF), including adaptive management concepts, should be incorporated in the management of the fisheries and aquaculture sectors.
•NPOAs-Sharks should be developed in Caribbean countries that catch substantial quantities of sharks in their fisheries and that all Caribbean countries improve their data collection on shark catches and landings.
•The role of national and international NGO’s (e.g. TNC, WWF, IUCN, CARIBSAVE, CERMES, CNFO) in the implementation of the Code should be increased through better use of their relationships with fisherfolk communities and media, as well as involving these organizations in awareness raising and capacity building efforts in the region.
•CLME, ACP Fish II and other projects and programmes active in the region should adopt the Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries in their activities and ensure that policies, strategies, plans and legal frameworks developed with support of these projects adhere to the principles of the Code.

The workshop was attended by 11 Caribbean countries and 17 organizations and was co-organized by FAO, the Ministry of Agriculture, Food, Fisheries and Water Resource Management of Barbados Centre for Resource Management and Environmental Studies (CERMES) and the Western Central Atlantic Fishery Commission (WECAFC).

For more information contact: WECAFC-Secretariat@fao.org

Small-scale rainbow trout farming

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 12:00:00 +0100

Trout farming is an ideal option for the sustainable use of water resources in mountainous regions, it can help to ensure employment and steady incomes and generate benefits from other associated activities. A new FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Technical Paper, Small-scale rainbow trout farming, provides a basic guide to starting and successfully practicing small-scale rainbow trout farming. The paper summarizes all essential technical information and includes a glossary and illustrations.

GFCM - SAC - SCSA - Stock assessment of selected species of elasmobranchs

Wed, 2 Nov 2011 12:00:00 +0100

Information for Participants at Meetings at FAO Headquarters

FIRMS Steering Committee meeting - 7th Session

Fri, 3 May 2013 12:00:00 +0100

Report | Meeting documents

IOTC - Scientific Committee - 14th Session (FI-734-a14)

Fri, 8 Jul 2011 12:00:00 +0100

For further information and documentation click here

FIRMS Steering Committee Meeting - 7th Session

Tue, 19 Mar 2013 12:00:00 +0100

Meeting location:
FAO - Nigeria meeting room (C215 - second floor)
Viale delle Terme di Caracalla
00153 Rome Italy

Report | Meeting documents

GFCM - SAC - SCSA - Second meeting of the Working Group on by-catch

Wed, 9 Nov 2011 12:00:00 +0100

FAO Workshop for the Development of a Global Database for Vulnerable Marine Ecosystems (VMEs)

Wed, 23 Jan 2013 12:00:00 +0100

Mr Taconet, Marc (marc.taconet@fao.org)
FIPS, FAO HQ, Rome

Ms Sanders, Jessica (jessica.sanders@fao.org)
FIPI, FAO HQ, Rome

Mr Carocci, Fabio (fabio.carocci@fao.org)
FIRF, FAO HQ, Rome

Ms Labonté, Françoise(francoise.labonte@fao.org)
FIRF, FAO HQ, Rome

Meeting location:
GFCM - Palazzo Blumenstihl
Via Vittoria Colonna 1
00193 Rome Italy

Agenda

Background Paper 1: Review of progress on implementation of the FAO international guidelines for the management of deep-sea fisheries in the high seas - experience of RFMO/As with identifying and protecting VMEs. By Jake Rice, DFO.

Background Paper 2: Summary of the Moderator: Workshop to discuss implementation of paragraphs 80 and 83 to 87 of resolution 61/105 and paragraphs 117 and 119 to 127 of resolution 64/72 on sustainable fisheries, addressing the impacts of bottom fishing on vulnerable marine ecosystems and the long-term sustainability of deep sea fish stocks.

Confirmed participants

Prospectus

Innovative project on data sharing for fisheries management and conservation of marine living resources launched

Tue, 6 Dec 2011 12:00:00 +0100

i-Marine, a new information and data infrastructure initiative to support the sustainable exploitation of aquatic resources, kicked off last month in Italy. Bringing together partners from a wide variety of sectors and scientific disciplines, i-Marine provides an information platform and services aimed at spurring new forms of partnerships and innovative solutions to address common issues: how to better inform policy-makers with science-based knowledge to implement the Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries and conservation of living marine resources where the ecosystem approach relies on a set of knowledge and data sources much broader than that used in conventional and fishery management and conservation. FAO, as a founder of the i-Marine consortium which is funded by the European Union, leads the iMarine Board, a Governing body acting as interface between the user community and the information technology.

Informal open-ended technical meeting to review draft terms of reference (TORs) for the ad hoc working group referred to in paragraph 6 of Article 21 of the 2009 Agreement on Port State Measures...

Fri, 1 Jun 2012 12:00:00 +0100

to Prevent, Deter and Eliminate Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing (the Agreement) and draft TORs for an appropriate funding mechanism referred to in Article 21 of the Agreement to assist developing States implement the Agreement.

Meeting location:
FAO - Philippines Meeting Room (C277/281)
Viale delle Terme di Caracalla
00153 Rome Italy

Explanatory Memorandum on the establishment of the ad hoc Working Group under Part 6 of the FAO Agreement on Port State Measures

Note
english | français | español

Agenda and timetable

Ad hoc Working Group under Part 6 of the FAO Agreement on Port State Measures

Assistance Fund under Part 6 of the FAO Agreement on Port State Measures

Information for Delegates to Meetings at FAO Headquarters

COPESCAALC - Commission for Inland Fisheries and Aquaculture of Latin America and the Caribbean - 12th Session (RLC-758-12)

Fri, 21 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0100

Regional Office for Latin America and the Caribbean (RLC)

Web site

Preserving the global marine commons

Thu, 17 Nov 2011 12:00:00 +0100

Innovative partnership to promote sustainable fisheries management in the high seas.
The Global Environment Facility (GEF) last week approved a broad-scale, innovative approach to address the depletion of high-seas fish stocks and biodiversity conservation. The new programme aims to promote efficient and sustainable management of fisheries resources and biodiversity conservation in marine Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (ABNJ), commonly called the high seas.

Aquaculture farmer organizations and cluster management - Concepts and experiences

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 12:00:00 +0100

Small-scale aquaculture producers in developing countries are facing new opportunities and challenges related to market liberalization, globalization and increasingly tight quality and safety requirements for their products - making it harder to access markets. Collective action through participation in farmers' organizations can provide an effective mechanism to assist small-scale producers overcome these challenges and contribute to and influence modern market chains and trade. A recent FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Technical Paper, Aquaculture farmer organizations and cluster management - Concepts and experiences, presents factors associated with successful farmers' organizations and guiding principles for supporting aquaculture farmers' organizations in developing countries.

Meeting growing demand for fish

Wed, 9 Nov 2011 12:00:00 +0100

Aquaculture to provide more than half of world consumption.
Aquaculture is the world's fastest-growing source of animal protein and currently provides nearly half of all fish consumed globally, according to a report published here by FAO. The report World Aquaculture 2010 found that global production of fish from aquaculture grew more than 60 percent between 2000 and 2008, from 32.4 million tonnes to 52.5 million tonnes. It also forecasts that by 2012 more than 50 percent of the world's food fish consumption will come from aquaculture. "With stagnating global capture fishery production and an increasing population, aquaculture is perceived as having the greatest potential to produce more fish in the future to meet the growing demand for safe and quality aquatic food," the report said.

Global interactive map on aquaculture production of aquatic animals for human consumption

Thu, 3 Nov 2011 12:00:00 +0100

The Fisheries and Aquaculture Department of FAO has released the first global interactive map on Aquaculture production of aquatic animals for human consumption for 2009 as part of the National Aquaculture Sector Overview (NASO) map collection. The collection geographically illustrates where aquaculture is taking place. Key information features that accompany the administrative units or individual farms include: cultured species, technology used, culture systems, environments, farm characteristics and respective production quantities, and main issues (credit, diseases, environmental impact, etc.).

The NASO collection now includes national statistics on aquaculture production for 2009 and efforts are underway to include statistics related to land and water use in aquaculture during 2012. It is being developed by the Aquaculture Service of the FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Department in close collaboration with Fisheries and Aquaculture Statistics and Information Service.

New Google-based maps are also now available in the NASO map collection for Bangladesh, Cameroon, Canada, Chile, Cyprus, Islamic Republic of Iran, Italy, Japan, Malta, Mexico, Nicaragua, Peru and Thailand showing where aquaculture is taking place.

Ten proposals to safeguard the ocean

Wed, 2 Nov 2011 12:00:00 +0100

UN Agencies call on States and the international community for renewed commitment.

UN agencies are launching today a plan to improve the management of oceans and coastal areas. The Blueprint for Ocean and Coastal Sustainability sounds the alarm about the health of the oceans, and explains how they influence our everyday life by regulating the climate, providing highly-nutritious food and by sustaining livelihoods and economies. It recalls that although the ocean accounts for 70 per cent of the surface of our planet, only one per cent of it is protected.

Presented at UNESCO Headquarters during the 36th session of the General Conference, the Blueprint was prepared for consideration by the UN conference on sustainable development (Rio+20, June 2012).

Scientists alert fishery policy-makers in the Caribbean

Wed, 2 Nov 2011 12:00:00 +0100

Policy-makers should be aware of the declining trend in fisheries production in the Caribbean region. The Scientific Advisory Group (SAG) of the Western Central Atlantic Fishery Commission (WECAFC) calls for renewed attention from policy-makers to the declining trend in fish catches of some important commercial fisheries species stocks including the valuable Caribbean spiny lobster and several important reef species and urges action in support of the implementation of the Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries.

WECAFC was established in 1973 under the constitution of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and currently has 35 member countries. It aims to promote the effective conservation, management and development of the living marine resources in the Wider Caribbean Region, in accordance with the FAO Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries, and address common problems of fisheries management and development faced by members of the Commission.

The fifth session of the WECAFC Scientific Advisory Group, which took place in Puerto Morelos, Mexico on 28-29 October, discussed the fisheries resource status in the Wider Caribbean Region, identified emerging and continuing issues of concern to fisheries stakeholders and produced a set of research-related priorities focusing on fisheries resource assessment and management, for consideration by WECAFC in February 2012.

Working Groups of regional experts
With the intention of increasing the effectiveness of WECAFC, the SAG made recommendations for reinforcing cooperation between different regional and sub-regional fishery bodies by forming joint working groups and strengthening the activities and functioning of various existing working groups composed of regional experts in their fields. These included, among others: the establishment of an OSPESCA /WECAFC/CRFM Working Group on Spiny Lobster and the strengthening of the CRFM/WECAFC Working Group on Flying Fish in the Eastern Caribbean. In relation to Queen Conch the SAG noted that good progress had been made in several countries in recent years in management of the Conch, aided by the involvement of CITES. Nevertheless, the situation needs to be carefully monitored and there is need for improvement in a number of countries in the region.

Communication and harmonization
The importance of fisheries and aquaculture in the region is not well-recognized. The SAG recommended that knowledge of the sector and the priority given to it should be raised -- public media could make a valuable contribution to this. Moreover, the WECAFC members were urged to pay attention to further development and harmonization of policy, management plans and legal frameworks in the region. Fisheries resource assessment and management

The SAG drew the attention of WECAFC and its members to the following research priorities aimed at improving current fisheries resource assessment and management:
• Comprehensive fisheries assessment
• Building capacity for research, assessment and management
• Aquaculture development and management
• Incorporating social, economic and livelihood considerations
• Impacts of climate change and variability on fisheries
• Governance of marine resources incorporating ecosystem approaches

The SAG meeting was hosted by the Gulf and Caribbean Fisheries Institute (GFCI) and was composed of fisheries experts from Barbados, Mexico, Panama and the United States of America, CRFM, CERMES, CLME Project, GCFI, NOAA, OSPESCA and FAO. More information about WECAFC and its SAG.

Participant's photo

WECAFC - Scientific Advisory Group - 5th Session (SLAC-749-5)

Tue, 4 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0100

Information for Delegates to Meetings at FAO Headquarters

EIFAAC - European Inland Fisheries and Aquaculture Advisory Commission - Special Session of EIFAAC for the adoption of the new Rules of Procedure

Wed, 9 May 2012 12:00:00 +0100

Meeting location:
FAO - Mexico Meeting Room (D211)
Viale delle Terme di Caracalla
00100 Rome Italy

Webpage

GFCM - SAC - SCSA - WG on Stock Assessment of Small Pelagic Species

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0100

GFCM - SAC - SCSA - WG on Stock Assessment of Demersal Species

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0100

Helping restore and develop Iraq’s fisheries

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0100

Soaring food prices, coupled with years of conflict and economic sanctions, have had a devastating impact on the livelihoods of Iraq’s people. To help mitigate the effects accompanying the outbreak of the avian flu, along with the rising prices of poultry, FAO sought to introduce an alternative source of protein to Iraqi household diets by helping increase fish production.

Fridtjof Nansen’s birthday celebration seminar

Wed, 26 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0100

To mark the 150th birthday of Fridtjof Nansen -- celebrated Norwegian explorer, oceanographer, diplomat, national hero, institution builder, neurobiologist and marine biologist -- the EAF-Nansen Project meeting kicked-off with a seminar on The legacy of Nansen in marine research; relevance to development cooperation in fisheries.

The EAF-Nansen Project is a partnership between the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (Norad), FAO and the Institute of Marine Research (IMR) of Norway. The R/V Dr Fridtjof Nansen, the flagship of the EAF-Nansen project, was named after Nansen. The meeting was held in Oslo, Norway from 13 to 15 October 2011.

Opening the seminar after a brief welcome note by Ms. Villa Kulild, Director General of Norad, Ms. Ingrid Fiskaa, State Secretary, Norway Ministry of Foreign Affairs, noted that the Norwegian government envisages that the EAF-Nansen Project will continue to contribute to responsible resource management for many years. Four presentations followed:

Fridtjof Nansen as marine biologist and physical oceanographer: Is he still a source of inspiration? by Olav Sigurd Kjesbu of IMR, looked at the various aspects of the life of Fridtjof Nansen. He said that Nansen was, first of all, a unique research scientist, a “general specialist” regarded as one of the co-founders of the modern view of the nervous system and a pioneer in bridging physical oceanography and marine biology.

The development of international marine research, with focus on the research on fish populations and fisheries management, presented by Poul Degnbol of the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES), remarked that after contributing to marine science through his own efforts, Nansen was instrumental in building national and international marine science and was key to establishing international cooperation in marine research. He concluded that “research (and common sense) in recent decades has demonstrated that it is failing institutions rather than failing science which has prevented fisheries management from delivering sustainable fisheries and gain legitimacy”.

Global climate change and regional impacts on marine ecosystems, delivered by the IMR’s Svein Sundby, stated that long-term natural climate variability masks the effects and predictability of anthropogenic climate change. He pointed out that unlike climate change whose impact on marine ecosystems depends on critical physical and biological mechanisms, ocean acidification is rather the “dark horse” impacting negatively and uniformly across all marine ecosystems.

Finally Kwame Koranteng, Coordinator of the EAF-Nansen Project, wrapped up with a talk on The modern relevance of Fridtjof Nansen’s values and ideals: Past, present and future role of the Nansen Programme in fisheries and development. He considered Nansen’s achievements an inspiration for international development and cooperation, including the concept of the Nansen Programme, and its contribution to fisheries management in developing countries. In closing, he asked whether the Programme has lived up to the Nansen spirit and adhered to his values as an adventurer, explorer and humanitarian, and also responded to the call to support scientifically weak nations in the area of fisheries management.

EAF-Nansen Project

Seeking nominations for 2012-2013 Margarita Lizárraga Medal Award

Fri, 21 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0100

In 1997 the FAO Conference instituted the Margarita Lizárraga Medal to be awarded every two years to a person or organization that has served with distinction in the application of the Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries. The Medal pays tribute to Ms Margarita Lizárraga, Senior Fishery Liaison Officer, for her decisive role in promoting the Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries for her productive work in the field of fisheries for almost forty years, for her great dedication to FAO and for her strong commitment towards fostering the promotion of the fisheries sector, especially in developing countries.

Nominations are now open for candidates for the 2012-2013 Margarita Lizárraga Medal Award. Any person or organization may propose a person or organization that has diligently applied the FAO Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries. Winners are selected based on an outstanding, practical hands-on contribution to the application of the Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries demonstrating a tangible output; the activity should be a sustained effort, and not a one–off initiative; and the output should have the potential for a catalytic effect. Submissions must be made on the specific electronic nomination form which can be obtained from the FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Web site to the Secretary, Committee on Fisheries. Proposals for nominations should be submitted by 30 April 2012.

The 2012-2013 Margarita Lizárraga Medal Award will be presented by the FAO Director-General at a special ceremony during the Thirty-eigth Session of the FAO Conference in June 2013.

Field handbook on gender needs in small-scale fisheries projects

Mon, 17 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0100

Women play a significant role in fisheries, yet lack of attention to gender roles and relations can result in policies or programmes failing to improve livelihoods or reduce vulnerability of fishing communities. The largely ‘invisible’ role of women in small-scale fisheries must be addressed if actions aimed at improving the livelihoods of small-scale fishers and their families are to be successful.

To help promote gender equity and improve fisheries livelihoods, the Regional Fisheries Livelihoods Programme for South and Southeast Asia (RFLP) has developed a field handbook that gives guidance on taking gender into account in all phases of small-scale fisheries development projects.

Risks and benefits of fish consumption

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0100

FAO and the World Health Organisation (WHO) have published a report of the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Consultation on the risks and benefits of fish consumption. The report recommends a framework for assessing the net health benefits or risks of fish consumption in order to provide guidance to national food safety authorities and the Codex Alimentarius Commission in their work on managing risks, taking into account the existing data on the benefits of eating fish.

150th anniversary of Fridtjof Nansen: adventurer, explorer, humanitarian and Nobel Laureate - inspiring FAO’s work in marine fisheries

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0100

Today marks the 150th anniversary of the birth of Fridtjof Nansen, one of Europe’s great pioneers and humanitarians and an inspiration to FAO’s work in fisheries development.

Born in Norway on 10 October 1861, Nansen excelled in sciences and drawing and studied zoology. His scientific curiosity, matched with athletic prowess, led to brilliant achievements and international fame. In 1882 Nansen sailed to Greenland which resulted in a book of observations and keen interest in the world of sea and ice. In 1888, after completing university, Nansen organized a trip to cross Greenland where he survived temperatures of -45° C, climbed to 2750 meters and mastered dangerous ice , to bring new information on Greenland’s interior.

As curator of the University of Oslo’s Zootomical Institute , Nansen planned an exploratory trip to the Arctic. His ship, the Fram (meaning ‘Forward’), sailed from Siberia in September 1893, emerging in northern Norway 35 months later in August 1896. But half the time Nansen was not aboard. Realizing that the ship would not pass over the North Pole, Nansen and a companion, with 100 days' rations, set out on a 640 kilometere dash to the Pole in March 1895. In 23 days they traveled 225 kilometers over oceans of ice, getting closer to the Pole than anyone had previously been.

Nansen was appointed professor of oceanography in 1908 and continued to break new ground, leading several expeditions into Polar regions. But when World War I broke, exploration halted and Nansen became increasingly interested in international affairs.

Beginning with his involvement for Norway’s independence, Nansen served his country in many capacities, from minister to Great Britain to the League of Nations representative. His many actions included repatriating prisoners of war and negotiating food aid shipments. In June 1921 Nansen headed the new High Commission for Refugees where he created the «Nansen Passport», an identification document recognized by 52 governments. Nansen was awarded the 1922 Nobel Peace Prize in recognition of his outstanding humanitarian actions. He died on 13 May 13 1930 and buried on May 17, Norway's Constitution Day.

Nansen’s legacy of scientific exploration and research live on in the Nansen Programme. FAO has been collaborating with the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (Norad) and the Institute of Marine Research (IMR) of Bergen, Norway for nearly 35 years for the successful implementation of the Nansen Programme and now the EAF-Nansen Project. From 1975 the Programme carried out fisheries resources and environment surveys in developing countries using the vessel R/V Dr Fridtjof Nansen operated by the IMR. Early phases focused on exploring fisheries resources for development and later engaged in resource assessments and monitoring. The R/V Dr Fridtjof Nansen has become a symbol for the sustainable development of fisheries. The Programme has assembled the longest ever, and in most cases, uninterrupted time series of valuable fisheries and marine environmental data from the Large Marine Ecoregions of Africa.

The EAF-Nansen Project also gives support to developing countries in fisheries research and management and to adopt and implement the ecosystem approach in the management of their fisheries. Through the project FAO is assisting its developing member States to achieve the Millennium Development Goal related to eradication of poverty and hunger while simultaneously ensuring environmental sustainability.

"It was apropriate that a Norwegian fisheries programme to support developing countries was associated with Fridtjof Nansen’s ideals – innovative, bold and adventurous," said Árni M. Mathiesen, FAO’s Assistant Director General for Fisheries and Aquaculture.

EAF-Nansen Website

RECOFI - Fifth meeting of the Working Group on Fisheries Management (WG-FM)

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 12:00:00 +0100