Small-scale fisheries: technical and scientific support

Problem addressed

Small-scale fisheries* face challenges such as low profitability, limited visibility in management policies, and generational renewal. They also often lack technological tools and specific data to support effective management.

This type of fishing has economic and socio-cultural value that goes beyond its traditional role as a food source: it represents cultural and spiritual values and is considered a traditional way of life. However, data documenting the cultural heritage associated with these vessels are rarely available.

At the same time, environmental pressure on the marine environment cannot be attributed solely to large vessels. All coastal and maritime activities generate impacts, and small-scale fisheries (SSF) are no exception. From a global perspective, SSF also contribute to climate change through their carbon footprint.

One of the main challenges remains the real-time monitoring of fishing effort.

What we do and how we do it

• We work with fishermen’s guilds, associations, and public administrations to design assessment methodologies adapted to the reality of small-scale fisheries.
• We apply socio-economic indicators such as the Moses Index, collect data on fishing effort and landings, and develop digital and interactive toolboxes that improve small-scale planning and management. These tools enable the assessment of cultural heritage, the analysis of local and global impacts (such as carbon footprint), and the automation of data collection through on-board devices (currently on a voluntary basis).
• We also provide advisory services for the certification of good practices and the integration of sustainability criteria that increase the market value of products.

Key benefits

• Strengthened sustainability, contributing to blue growth (profitability) and environmental sustainability.
• Greater visibility in decision-making processes through improved scientific knowledge.
• Practical and accessible tools to enhance subsector management and ensure sustainability in all its dimensions.
• Preservation of the cultural and social heritage of coastal communities linked to small-scale fisheries.

*  Although not exactly the same, they are also referred to as artisan fisheries. In the European Union (EU), SSF are defined as vessels under 12 metres in length that do not use towed gear but rather fixed gear. At AZTI, we extend this scope and also work with vessels of up to 18 metres.