Sustaining our oceans needs better governance and action now on climate change

The ocean acts as a critical second lung for our planet, a major line of defense in the battle against climate change. But it had hardly been mentioned in any climate change summits until now. Until COP21.

The Fisheries Transparency Initiative (FiTI) is delighted to see the ocean high on the COP21 agenda, with a whole day at the conference – December 4th – dedicated to discussing ocean issues. It is this symbolic day that was chosen to talk about the FiTI and its mission at COP21.

Prof. Dr. Peter Eigen, Chair of the International Advisory Group of the FiTI, says:

“All around the world, climate change has already become reality for coastal communities who often depend on fish for survival.”

“In many countries, these coastal communities are already under enormous pressure, linked to their dwindling fish stocks and unsustainable fisheries management. The FiTI will improve fisheries management, making it more sustainable.”

“But this work is no panacea to the climate change issue, of course. Coastal communities need global leaders to make clear commitments in Paris in the next days.”

The Fisheries Transparency Initiative (FiTI) aims at promoting more sustainable and responsible fisheries through transparency and participation. The 1st International Conference of the FiTI will take place in Nouakchott/Mauritania on 3 February 2016.

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