Adaptation Policies and Measures in Fisheries and Blue Economy under the 2021 Updated NDC | ||
The Fisheries sector and the Blue Economy are critical components of Mauritius' economy, food security, and coastal livelihoods. However, climate change poses significant threats to these sectors, with rising sea surface temperatures, ocean acidification, coral bleaching, and changing fish migration patterns affecting marine biodiversity and fish stocks. Extreme weather events and sea-level rise also threaten coastal infrastructure, fishery-dependent communities, and marine ecosystems, further exacerbating economic and environmental vulnerabilities. Recognizing these challenges, the updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) outlines key adaptation policies and measures to ensure the long-term sustainability of fisheries and the Blue Economy. The strategy focuses on sustainable fisheries management through climate-smart practices, enhancing marine biodiversity conservation, and strengthening policy frameworks that integrate coastal and marine resource management. Specific measures include expanding marine protected areas (MPAs), promoting sustainable aquaculture, improving fisheries monitoring and management, and encouraging climate-resilient fishing techniques. Additionally, the adaptation approach highlights the importance of capacity-building, stakeholder engagement, and scientific research to support informed decision-making and sustainable resource utilization. In Rodrigues, efforts will focus on resilient artisanal fisheries, co-management of marine resources, and promoting off-lagoon fishing practices to adapt to shifting fish populations and environmental changes. Through these adaptation initiatives, Mauritius aims to enhance the resilience of fisheries-dependent communities, protect marine ecosystems, and develop a sustainable Blue Economy that can withstand climate-related challenges while ensuring economic and food security. |
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