World Fisheries Day: Championing Sustainable Fishing Practices

On World Fisheries Day, we highlight how sustainable fishing provides benefits to our oceans by supporting the livelihoods of small-scale fishing communities.

This is especially true in The Bahamas, which is heavily dependent on sustainable fisheries as a cornerstone of its economy. Healthy marine ecosystems are vital for sustaining critical species like spiny lobster and stone crab, which are major economic drivers. By prioritizing sustainable practices, the Bahamas can ensure the long-term health of its fisheries, protecting food security and cultural traditions for future generations.

The Moore Charitable Foundation’s Bahamian affiliate, Moore Bahamas Foundation (MBF), proudly supports organizations working with local communities on innovative strategies and practices that will ensure sustainable fisheries, including:

• RARE: MBF supports a feasibility study on the implementation of RARE’s Fish Forever program in the Bahamas that leverages biological, behavioral, and social sciences to sustain fisheries production, build coordinated advocacy among governments, and elevate the voices of coastal fishers.
• The Nature Conservancy: The Bahamas’ Department of Marine Resources (DMR) has requested TNC’s help in proactively managing and sustaining snapper and grouper populations by developing a national management plan. These species have a high economic value and do not currently have management plans in place, threatening efficient management and future sustainability.
• The Cape Eleuthera Foundation: With support from Moore Bahamas Foundation, the Cape Eleuthera Institute (CEI) in The Bahamas has pioneered a groundbreaking method for removing the claws of Bahamian stone crabs, significantly enhancing their survival rates by more than 30 percent. CEI integrates this research with community involvement, including youth and local fishermen, ensuring that conservation efforts are deeply rooted in local practices.

As we celebrate World Fisheries Day, let’s recognize that safeguarding our oceans and supporting sustainable fishing practices are essential for a thriving planet.