The Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries

The Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries considers the entire marine environment—fish populations, habitats, other species, and human impacts—when managing fisheries. Instead of focusing only on individual fish stocks, it aims to maintain the health and balance of the whole ecosystem, ensuring sustainable fishing while protecting marine biodiversity. This approach recognizes that healthy ecosystems support resilient fisheries and that human activities should adapt to preserve ecological integrity for future generations. It promotes integrated management that accounts for ecological relationships, socioeconomic factors, and long-term sustainability.