WHY ATTEND
This conference will bring together global leaders involved in the one-by-one tuna sector to share best practices, discuss solutions to shared challenges, evaluate the marketing potential of the social and economic dynamics of one-by-one fisheries, and explore collaborative ways to progress the sector. This is the first time such a convening of stakeholders including fisheries, processors, suppliers, brands, retailers, governments, researchers and NGOs has taken place in order to communicate, collaborate and pave a way forward for one-by-one tuna fisheries.
BACKGROUND
As a highly migratory species, tuna represent a key part of coastal and open ocean ecosystems and this global commodity provides a source of food and employment for communities across the world.
Fishing communities around the world have been practicing one-by-one tuna fishing techniques for centuries. Trolling, pole-and-line, and handline tuna fisheries provide coastal communities with much needed employment and food security, while minimzing the impact on the marine environment. For many coastal communities, traditional one-by-one fishing methods have formed part of the social fabric and culture.
Fifty years ago, most of the world’s tuna was caught using these low-impact methods, but as fishing technology and vessel designs evolved, there was a shift towards large, industrial operations. Today, the majority of the world’s tuna is caught by purse seine and longline vessels. While these methods may bring in larger catches, the social and environmental benefits are greatly diminished.
Luckily, a number of one-by-one tuna fisheries remain, and many are at the forefront of the sustainable seafood movement. The Azores has been home to a pole-and-line tuna fleet since the 1950s, and the fisheries form an integral part of the local economy today, making it a perfect venue for the world’s first one-by-one tuna fishing conference.