“As custodians of one third of the world’s supply of tuna and the largest and healthiest stocks, it is imperative for FFA (Forum Fisheries Agency) members to ensure the sustainability of our fisheries for our food security, livelihoods, and economic development,” says FFA director-general Dr Tupou-Roosen.
She made the comment as she welcomed the outcomes of the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC) 20th session held in Rarotonga, Cook Islands earlier this month.
Among the outcomes was the need to prioritise climate change impacts on tuna stocks.
“Scientific research forecasts that climate change could cause at least 20 per cent of tuna biomass to move from the West to East, beyond exclusive economic zones and into high seas,” the FFA stated.
The agency had proposed the WCPFC increase its focus on climate change because of the detrimental impacts it could cause to fish stocks and in turn livelihoods, food security and economic sustainability.
Led by FFA chair Glen Joseph, the delegation included representatives from all 17 members.
