Socio-economic impacts of marine conservation efforts in three Indonesian fishing communities. (May 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Eriksson, Björn; Johansson, Frank; Blicharska, Malgorzata
• Is Part Of: Marine policy. Volume 103(2019)
• Page Start: 59
• Page End: 67
• Publication Date: 2019-05
• Subjects: Marine resources -- Economic aspects -- Periodicals; Fisheries -- Periodicals; Ressources marines -- Aspect économique -- Périodiques; Pêches -- Périodiques; Fisheries; Marine resources -- Economic aspects; Periodicals; 333.916405
• DOI: 10.1016/j.marpol.2019.02.007
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0308-597X

Abstract

Abstract: Numerous conservation initiatives have been undertaken to protect large marine animals by legal protection and implementing marine protected areas (MPAs). Despite these efforts, many marine animals are still threatened, partly due to lack of compliance with conservation regulations. Meanwhile, research suggests that conservation efforts which also take socio-economic factors such as fishermen's livelihoods into account during planning and implementation are more likely to succeed. This study examined the compliance and socio-economic situation of local fishing communities at three sites in Indonesia (Nusa Penida, Tanjung Luar and Komodo National Park) where shark and manta ray conservation efforts have been implemented. 59 local residents were interviewed. The results showed that 49% of those residents had experienced a deterioration and 37% an improvement in their economic situation since conservation efforts in the form of species protection or MPAs were implemented in their area. The economic situation of the residents was associated with their access to alternative livelihoods, access to information on conservation rules, and relationship with conservation authorities. Particularly, interviewees with easier access to alternative income and a positive relationship with conservation authorities also experienced an increase in their economy. In addition, compliance with conservation efforts was positively related to improved economic situation, access to alternative livelihoods and information on conservation rules. These factors all differed among the three study sites, leading to different compliance levels between sites. The results of this study indicate the importance of considering socio-economic factors and of involving local communities when planning and implementing conservation efforts. Highlights: The socio-economic effects of marine conservation on fishing communities were studied. Almost half of interviewed fishers perceived a decrease in income due to conservation. Impacts on livelihoods seemed to affect compliance with conservation rules. Access to alternative livelihoods had a positive effect on compliance. Access to information on conservation rules was also a contributing factor.