SPC has launched a new project to assess the vulnerability of fisheries and aquaculture in the Pacific to climate change.

This project brings together the experts from the region to determine: the observed and projected changes to Pacific climate and oceanograhy, the effects of these changes on the ecosystems that support fisheries, and the projected changes to fish stocks themselves. Collectively, this information will provide a sound basis for assessing the vulnerability of oceanic, coastal and freshwater fisheries, and aquaculture, to climate change.

The project is guided by a Technical Working Group (TWG), comprising relevant experts, together with representatives from CROP (Council of Regional Organisations in the Pacific) agencies and national fisheries departments. click here to see the members of the TWG

The outputs of the project will strengthen the Pacific Islands Framework for Action on Climate Change (PIFACC) 2006-2015, which explicitly recognizes the need to identify vulnerable sectors, and to develop targeted adaptation measures.

This initiative is designed to assist the region to maintain the vital contribution of fish to economic growth, food security and livelihoods. It addresses two of the key priorities identified by leaders from the region at the Pacific Islands Forum and the SPC Conference: fisheries and climate change.