#Japan #Hokkaido #Sea Urchin #Yashiri Island #UMITO Partners

UMITO Partners Unveils Sustainable Fishing Initiative on Yashiri Island

In a groundbreaking collaboration, UMITO Partners and the North Rumoi Fishing Cooperative's Yashiri Branch have announced the initiation of a sustainable fishing project on Yashiri Island in Hokkaido, Japan. This initiative, set to launch in April 2025, focuses on enhancing the quality of sea urchins through habitat conservation and restoration. The project, dubbed the "Yashiri UNI-MOBA Sustainable Fishing Project," aims to not only secure the island's primary industry but also improve the overall health of the marine ecosystem.

Context and Objectives of the Project

Yashiri Island, located in the Sea of Japan off Hokkaido's northwest coast, is a small island with a population of around 160 residents. The island, recognized for its rich natural resources, is surrounded by a designated national park and is in proximity to the fruitful Musashi Reef. Fishing is integral to the island's economy, particularly sea urchin fishing, which involves about 20 local fishermen. The quality of sea urchins like the Kitamurasaki and Ezobafun Sea Urchin is highly regarded, even compared to nearby regions.

However, recent changes in climate and human activities have led to the decline of seagrass beds, which serve as a habitat for sea urchins. This degradation has adversely affected the sea urchin's quality and abundance, creating economic challenges for fishermen. In response to these pressing issues, UMITO Partners and the Yashiri Cooperative aim to restore and preserve the seagrass ecosystem, thereby enhancing the quality of sea urchins and supporting biodiversity. The project seeks to balance economic activities with sustainable marine environments.

Overview of the Initiative

The Yashiri UNI-MOBA project focuses on several key areas of action:

• - Seagrass Conservation and Restoration: Efforts will be directed at enhancing seagrass habitats to improve sea urchin quality.
• - Scientific Ecosystem Monitoring: Utilizing environmental DNA and other methodologies to understand the ecosystem better and evaluate the project’s impact.
• - Blue Finance Integration: Implementation of blue carbon credits and financing models to support conservation efforts.
• - Communications and PR: Promoting the initiative and engaging various stakeholders to raise awareness and build support for sustainable fishing practices.

UMITO Partners will leverage its expertise and networks in marine and fisheries consulting, overseeing project design, providing scientific and economic insights, facilitating agreements with stakeholders, and undertaking public relations efforts. The Yashiri Branch will execute on-ground activities in collaboration with relevant parties.

Future Prospects

As the project progresses, it aims to visualize and capitalize on the CO₂ captured through seagrass conservation activities, transforming this into "J Blue Credits®". This innovation will help secure funding for environmentally beneficial activities and create new revenue streams for local fishermen. Furthermore, the initiative endeavors to brand Yashiri sea urchins as a sustainable food source, thereby fostering a positive perception of environmentally responsible fishing within the community.

Call for Corporate Support

The project welcomes partnerships from companies interested in offering technical support, sponsorship, or synergy with their CSR initiatives. Businesses that share a vision for sustainable fishing are encouraged to reach out and contribute to this essential cause.

Statements from Leaders

"The fishermen on the front lines are the first to feel the changes affecting our oceans. UMITO Partners is committed to leveraging our expertise to foster sustainable fishing models on Yashiri Island. We envision a future where fishermen engaged in habitat conservation are recognized and supported by society, creating a virtuous cycle for sustainability."
— Shunji Murakami, CEO of UMITO Partners

"With the collaboration of UMITO Partners and other stakeholders, we are fully committed to realizing a Yashiri-style seagrass restoration that meets the island's needs."
— Naoya Saito, President of the North Rumoi Fishing Cooperative, Yashiri Branch.

About the Organizations

The North Rumoi Fishing Cooperative Yashiri Branch, established in January 2004, supports and manages fishing activities in the Yashiri region. More information can be found at their website.

UMITO Partners, founded in June 2021, aims to promote sustainable fishing practices and marine conservation, having earned the prestigious B Corp certification in April 2023.
More about their initiatives can be found at UMITO Partners.