Volume 61

An Assessment of Potential Impacts of Climate Change and Climate Variability on Small-scale Fisheries in the Eastern Caribbean


Authors
Philmore, A.J.
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Date: November, 2008


Pages: 139-147


Event: Proceedings of the Sixty-First Annual Gulf and Caribbean Fisheries Institute


City: Gosier


Country: Guadeloupe

Abstract

Small-scale fisheries can play an important role with respect to key development issues such as poverty alleviation, food security and pro-poor growth especially in small island developing states (SIDS). The ecosystems in which fisheries operate are very vulnerable to several factors including climate change and climate variability. This paper focuses on potential impacts of climate change and climate variability on small scale fisheries in the Eastern Caribbean. in response to a demand for more information on the likely impacts of climate change on small-scale fisheries particularly the livelihoods of Fishers the perceptions of fishers were assessed in three selected Eastern Caribbean island countries: Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, and St. Kitts and Nevis. Rising sea surface temperatures, variable currents and rising fuel cost were among the main factors that affected the fisheries. The perceptions of fishers based on observations at sea were compared to available scientific information on climate change and climate variability. Fishermen throughout the Eastern Caribbean have various perceptions of climate change and climate variability. They have also identified climate and other factors that impact fisheries. Based on the findings, suggestions were made of coping strategies that facilitate adaptation of small scale fisheries to climate change and climate variability. Possible areas for further research were also suggested. It is anticipated that these can assist in shaping future climate change adaptation strategies and project ideas for fisheries in the Caribbean

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