Resource information
Global reviews of the impacts of climate change on fisheries and aquaculture systems carried out in 2009 revealed a paucity and patchiness of information concerning climate impacts on the sector. Six follow-up regional case studies were then launched by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in an attempt to start filling the gaps and to provide direction and initial steps in adaptation planning. Fisheries and aquaculture systems were selected across the globe to allow for diversity.
The approach of the case studies followed a template allowing them to: (i) define vulnerability to climate change by understanding potential impacts on the system, the sensitivity of the system to such changes and the current adaptive capacity;
(ii) identify gaps in existing knowledge in assessing the vulnerability of the system;
(iii) identify potential strategies for reducing vulnerability to climate change; and
(iv) provide policy guidance in reducing system vulnerability.
The objective of this publication is to consolidate, further interpret, refine and draw conclusions from the information gathered on climate change impacts, sensitivity and adaptive capacity of fish production systems in the diverse and geographically distinct social-ecological systems covered by the six case studies.
Although the specificity of each case study and the complexity of vulnerability prevent a generalization of issues and the drawing of broad conclusions, the present document captures common threads from a close examination of the exposure, sensitivity and adaptive capacity of the systems considered. Information on these three characteristics of vulnerability is particularly relevant to policymakers, development practitioners and members of the academic community concerned with the impacts of climate change on aquatic resources and the communities and economies they support.
It can be used to identify areas in which interventions, policy development and/or further research are needed to better equip these systems and their stakeholders to reduce their vulnerability and enhance their adaptation to long-term climate-induced changes. It can also be used as a benchmark against which improvements in capacity may be measured or monitored over time.
