The Global Tuna Alliance (GTA), an international organization promoting sustainable practices in global tuna supply chains, participated in the 28th session of the Indian Ocean Tuna Committee (IOTC) from May 13-17 in Bangkok. The main goal of the GTA during this meeting was to persuade delegates to work together on significantly reducing yellowfin tuna catches.
Annual IOTC meetings play a key role in shaping the future of tuna in the Indian Ocean. Faced with alarming scientific data indicating overuse of resources, GTA appealed to committee members to reduce catches by 30%, which is necessary to rebuild fish populations. Ignoring these recommendations could lead to a total collapse of resources, with serious ecological and social consequences, especially for coastal countries dependent on tuna fishing.
Daniel Suddaby, the executive director of GTA, emphasized the importance of the IOTC meetings as they determine the future of fish in the region. It was important that the voices of GTA partners, representing a wide range of the fish supply chain, were heard and considered. Suddaby also highlighted GTA’s collaboration with WWF aimed at combining efforts to protect tuna and promote sustainable practices in the global fish market.
The “Go Fish Less: Yellowfin Edition” campaign, initiated by GTA, is a creative way to engage decision-makers and draw attention to the problem of excessive tuna fishing. Special decks of cards given to IOTC delegates contained important information about the campaign and a call for urgent reduction of catches. Each card in the deck presented a statement from a GTA partner, emphasizing the importance of the problem and the need for immediate action.
Kerrie Robertson, GTA’s lobbying leader, pointed out that although some countries tried to individually reduce their catches, these efforts were insufficient. According to her, without a decisive and joint response, the consequences will become increasingly severe, especially for countries most dependent on tuna resources.
Ultimately, although the IOTC meeting concluded, questions about the future of yellowfin tuna in the Indian Ocean remain open. Further observations and studies will be crucial in monitoring the effects of the actions taken and in striving for a sustainable fishery economy in the region.
In the face of global challenges related to marine resource management, initiatives like those undertaken by GTA and its partners are essential for promoting responsible fishing and protecting marine ecosystems.
About the author
Grzegorz Bubak
My fascination with marine aquariums began over two decades ago when I stumbled upon an article about this topic in a magazine. Since then, the underwater world has become my obsession and passion, shaping my everyday life. I started my adventure with marine aquariums with soft corals, which were my first step into this fascinating world. Over time, captivated by the diversity and beauty of SPS corals, I decided to focus on their cultivation, which continues to fill me with constant wonder.
Thanks to my experience and passion for marine aquariums, I am ready to share my knowledge and expertise with other enthusiasts in this field. I am happy to be part of the Reef Pedia community, which serves as an invaluable source of information for all marine aquarium lovers.