SDG 14: Defining and defending small scale fisheries

Defining and defending small scale fisheries; towards Sustainable Development Goal 14

In the first of our SDG 14 video series, senior adviser to the GRÓ-FTP Dr. Tumi Tómason talks through SDG 14b

SDG target 14b aims to provide access for small-scale artisanal fishers to marine resources and markets. The UN FAO estimates that about 2/3 of all fish caught for direct human consumption comes from small scale fisheries. 90% of the people directly employed and dependent on fisheries are in the small-scale sector.

But what do we really mean when we use the term “small-scale fisheries”? The definition has changed over time, and may be different, depending on where you live. We tend to think of small-scale fisheries as being rooted in local communities, traditions, and values.

We imagine that small-scale fishers are self-employed and usually provide food for their communities and households.

Tumi Tómasson is a fisheries biologist who has worked all over the world in fisheries development. In this video, he takes us through the concept of small-scale fisheries, how it has changed over time, and how we can apply it today.