The marine environment is subject to a variety of threats in the modern day, including competing demands for marine space, loss or degradation of biodiversity and changes in its structure, loss of habitats, contamination by dangerous substances and nutrients, and the effects of climate change. To combat these threats, governments are increasingly adopting measures to manage the marine ecosystem more effectively and in a sustainable manner.
Fisheries policy refers to the regulations and practices that govern the management and use of fish populations and their habitats, as well as promoting the economic growth of the fishing industry and helping fishers whose livelihoods rely on said fish stocks. The policy field covers a range of issues such as fishing quotas, gear restrictions, habitat protection and the enforcement of regulations.
RPA has extensive experience within the marine and fisheries sector, helping governments, local authorities and other stakeholders manage marine ecosystems sustainably. We have worked on marine spatial planning, sustainable fisheries management, marine conservation, illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, and have also worked on policies aimed at supporting fishers.
We undertake evaluations including of policies, programmes, strategies, projects and funding schemes within the marine and fisheries. We are also experienced in assessing the supply chain impacts of developments in the marine sphere and of the social impacts that this development could result in from displacement of other marine activities through to creation of new, skilled job opportunities within vulnerable communities.