Best Practices: Fisheries & Aquaculture

Sustainable Fishing Techniques

Case Study: “The Mauritius E€OFISH Project supports longline fishing training”

This initiative promotes line fishing over other more destructive methods like trawling and netting. The project includes training for local fishermen on sustainable fishing techniques that minimize bycatch and reduce damage to the marine habitat.

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Marine Protected Areas (MPAs)

Case Study: “Blue Bay Marine Park”

Blue Bay Marine Park is a significant MPA that has been effective in conserving marine biodiversity around Mauritius. The park regulates fishing activities, allowing fish populations to regenerate, and serves as a research and educational site for sustainable marine practices.

Aquaculture Sustainability Initiatives

Case Study: "Mauritius collaborates with the National Research Institute for Sustainable Development of France to boost aquaculture production"

In this project, different species are cultured together to create a balanced ecosystem that mimics nature. Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA), systems seaweeds in integrated aquaculture, feeds and nutrition of aquatic organisms and its impacts on humans, as well as on biosecurity, probiotics, disease, and the future of marine aquaculture.

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Catch Size and Season Regulation

Case Study: "Tuna Quota System"

Mauritius has implemented a quota system for tuna fishing, which sets limits on the amount and size of tuna that can be caught. This helps ensure tuna populations are not overfished and remain sustainable for future generations.

The European Parliament has approved the 2022-2026 agreement between the EU and Mauritius, which increases the quota of fish that the EU tuna fleet can catch in the Indian Ocean.

Under this new arrangement, the EU fleet will be allowed to catch up to 5,500 tonnes of tuna and similar species annually, compared to the previous limit of 4,000 tonnes per year between 2017 and 2021.

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Fisheries Management Policies

Case Study: “Mauritius Fisheries Management Plan”

This comprehensive management plan includes policies for monitoring fish stocks, regulating catch sizes, and managing fishing licenses. The plan aims to balance economic interests with conservation needs, ensuring the sustainable use of marine resources.

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Community-Based Management

Case Study: “Fishermen's Welfare Fund”

This initiative supports local fishing communities in adopting sustainable practices. The fund provides financial and technical assistance to fishermen for sustainable gear and practices, while also supporting community-led conservation projects. 

The Fishermen Welfare Fund is a corporate body operating under the Ministry of Blue Economy, Marine Resources, Fisheries, and Shipping.

It was established by the Fishermen Welfare Fund Act No. 28 of 2000 and began its operations in May 2001.

The Fund is managed by a Board consisting of 10 members, including the Chairperson. Four of the members represent fishers' associations, with one being a representative of Rodrigues fishermen.

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Bycatch Reduction Devices

Case Study: "Bycatch Reduction in Longline Fishing"

Mauritian authorities have encouraged the use of bycatch reduction devices in longline fisheries. These devices prevent the accidental catch of non-target species such as sea turtles and dolphins, thereby reducing ecological impact.

Longline fisheries are probably where bycatch mitigation measures might be the most meaningful.

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Habitat Restoration

Case Study: "Coral Reef Restoration Projects"

Several coral reef restoration projects around Mauritius aim to rebuild habitats that are crucial for fisheries. The restored reefs provide breeding and feeding grounds for fish, enhancing local fish stocks and supporting biodiversity.

Coral reefs make up less than 1% of the world's oceans, yet they are home to 25% of marine species and provide food, livelihoods, safety, and stunning tourist attractions for at least 1 billion people.

Unfortunately, their survival is at risk due to pollution, overfishing, and rising sea temperatures driven by climate change. According to the UN, the ongoing increase in water temperatures resulted in the loss of 14% of the world's coral reefs between 2009 and 2018. Researchers estimate that if current trends persist, 90% of the world's tropical corals could be eradicated by 2050, along with the ecosystems that rely on them.

Traceability and Labeling

Case Study: "Sustainable Seafood Labeling"

Mauritius has introduced a labeling system for seafood that certifies products caught using sustainable practices. This helps consumers make informed choices and supports the market for sustainable fish products.

Education and Training

Case Study: "Fisheries Training Institute"

The institute offers courses and workshops on sustainable fishing practices and marine conservation. It aims to educate current and future generations of fishermen, ensuring they are well-versed in sustainable methods and environmental stewardship.

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