The Strategy for Mainstreaming Biodiversity Considerations in Fisheries Policy and Practices of the Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism is a regional policy framework covering the period 2024-2030. Its overarching objective is to promote a sustainable and resilient fisheries sector that conserves marine biodiversity, supports healthy marine ecosystems, and secures food security, nutrition, livelihoods, and other socio-economic benefits derived from the region’s marine resources for present and future generations, in accordance with the framework of the Caribbean Community Common Fisheries Policy. The Strategy establishes the following objectives: (i) to promote the adoption and implementation of ecosystem-based approaches to fisheries management, fisheries development, and aquaculture, recognizing the health of marine ecosystems and the conservation of biodiversity as fundamental components of sustainable fisheries governance; (ii) to ensure that fisheries and aquaculture activities within Member States are conducted in a manner that minimizes adverse impacts on biodiversity, promotes the sustainable use of biological resources, and contributes to the conservation, management, restoration, and maintenance of healthy ecosystems and biodiversity. This objective shall be advanced through the integration of biodiversity considerations into fisheries policies, regulatory frameworks, and operational practices, thereby supporting food security, nutrition, livelihoods, and ecosystem resilience for present and future generations. The strategic actions under the CRFM Strategy are designed to integrate biodiversity conservation objectives into fisheries governance, management, and decision-making processes across CRFM Member States in alignment with the latest Kunming-Montreal global biodiversity targets. The strategy emphasizes the need to update and align National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs) with fisheries sector priorities, while strengthening national and regional policy, legal, and institutional frameworks to ensure that biodiversity considerations are systematically reflected in fisheries laws, regulations, and management measures. It also promotes enhanced intersectoral coordination among fisheries, environment, and marine resource authorities to support coherent and effective implementation of biodiversity-related commitments. Furthermore, the Strategy advocates for the adoption of ecosystem-based approaches to fisheries management through the development and implementation of Marine Spatial Plans (MSPs), the strengthening of Ecosystem-Based Fisheries Management (EBFM), and the establishment, expansion, or enhancement of Marine Managed Areas (MMAs). These measures are intended to safeguard marine habitats and species, improve the resilience of ecosystems and fisheries resources, and contribute to sustainable food security, livelihoods, and economic benefits. The Strategy further recognizes the importance of science-based decision-making, stakeholder participation, capacity building, and regional cooperation as essential mechanisms for balancing biodiversity conservation with the sustainable use of marine living resources throughout the Caribbean region.
2025-01-01