【Event Report】 What Will Ideal Fisheries and Ocean Environments Look Like in 10 Years?

Fishing industry stakeholders from Okinawa, Okinawa Prefectural Government officials, and academic experts gathered to deepen discussions on sustainable fisheries.

On September 11th, an event focused on the future of Okinawa’s fisheries was held at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University (OIST).

This event provided an opportunity for a diverse group of stakeholders, including representatives from Okinawa’s fisheries, officials from the Okinawa Prefectural Government, academic institutions, and fisheries-related industries, to come together and explore possibilities for dialogue and cooperation regarding the future of the region’s fisheries. It was the first time such an initiative was undertaken at OIST.

The event was organized by Dr. Jamila Rodrigues and Technician Shun Kageyama, who conduct research at this center on “Coastal Fishers’ Perceptions of Climate Change and Its Impact on The Future of Fishing Industry and Fishers’ Wellbeing.” To study fishermen’s awareness of climate change, their views on the future of Okinawa’s fisheries, and their sense of well-being, the organizers conducted a survey targeting local fishermen. They successfully collected 511 responses from 33 fisheries cooperatives across the prefecture.

During the event, in addition to presenting the survey findings, participants were divided into groups representing different stakeholder perspectives to discuss innovations and other measures necessary for achieving sustainable fisheries. A poster exhibition was also held to showcase fishers’ environmental conservation activities.

With the help of the moderators of this event, Dr. Rodrigues and her team collected the participants opinions during the focus group event.
One aim is to write a report to the Okinawa Prefectural Government about the outcome of this event. Also, to continue this network to expand and develop collaborations. A second aim is to further continue data analysis the survey data and publish the results in a academic paper.