BC3 U Seminars
“Modelling impacts of Ocean Acidification in fish catches and its economic implications”
Jose A. Fernandes, MSc, PhD
Scientist (Bio-economic modeller)
Plymouth Marine Laboratory (Sea and Society) Prospect Place, The Hoe, Plymouth
Abstract
An assessment of the potential biological impacts and economic consequences of ocean warming and acidification is needed for sustainable ocean resources management. Here, we use new theory, observations, experiments and modelling to quantify (in terms of catches, monetary value and equivalent jobs) the combined effects of acidification and warming on commercial fish and shellfish under different CO2 emission scenarios. The UK is used as a case study area but the methods and key messages will be transferable across a broad range of settings. Incorporation of combined acidification and warming experimental data into the model scenarios consistently resulted in greater modelled changes than use of warming data alone. Shellfish species were impacted the most across the scenarios tested. This translates in a decrease in total potential landings in most UK administrative areas and particularly for the small vessels fleet. We also calculate the economic equivalent direct and indirect impacts in terms of income and jobs when using the results from this work projection considering the total fisheries related economy. The economic and social impacts could be further exacerbated in communities with economies highly dependent on fishing which are considered particularly vulnerable if there is a lack of a diversified economy.
