#Japan #Climate Change #Tokyo #Environmental Defense Fund #fisheries management

Exploring Sustainable Fisheries Management Amid Climate Change

On May 15, 2025, the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) Japan is set to hold a significant seminar titled "Considering Resource Management and Assessment Under Climate Change". This event, supported by the Fisheries Agency, aims to gather insights on managing and assessing fishery resources sustainably amid the challenges posed by a changing climate.

In recent years, Japan has witnessed a dramatic increase in water temperatures around its coasts, nearly twice the global average. Moreover, the frequency of marine heatwaves has surged. These changes in marine environments are having serious repercussions not only on the fishing industry but also on traditional Japanese cuisine, which heavily depends on sustainable fisheries. In response to these shifting conditions, the Japanese government has updated fisheries laws for the first time in about 70 years in 2020, introducing Total Allowable Catch (TAC) limits for key species to help maintain and restore marine resources. However, the rapid changes in the environment are making it increasingly difficult to rely on historical data, leading to uncertainty in the scientific evaluation of fish stocks. Factors such as reduced food supply, slower growth rates, and altered distribution patterns complicate resource assessments, leading fishery stakeholders to question the reliability of scientific data and the predictability of fisheries management outcomes. Although various countermeasures are under consideration, specific improvement strategies remain elusive.

On the other hand, the United States serves as a pioneering example in incorporating climate change data into resource management and assessments. Comparing the distinct aspects of American and Japanese fisheries, many common challenges emerge. Issues currently faced by Japan reflect those previously encountered and resolved by the US, providing valuable lessons. Moreover, as climate change progresses, it becomes increasingly critical for Japan and the US to combine their data and expertise for effective fishery management.

This seminar will not only outline the current state and challenges of Japanese fisheries under climate change but also share insights gained from a recent visit by Japanese personnel to the United States. Participants will consider scientific advancements and management improvements to tackle these challenges effectively and discuss timelines for their implementation.

Event Details

• - Date: May 15, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM
• - Organizer: Environmental Defense Fund Japan
• - Cooperation: Fisheries Agency
• - Location: TKP Shinbashi Conference Center, Hall 13A, 1-3-1 Uchisaiwaicho, Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo
• - Participation Fee: Free
• - Target Audience: Those in the fisheries industry, media, and general public (limited to first 90 attendees)

• - Online Participation Registration: Click here

Preliminary Program

• - Overview of challenges posed by climate change
• - Report by NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) representatives

- Speakers: Fisheries Agency, prefectural authorities, and fisheries research institutions

Organizer Information

• - Name: Environmental Defense Fund Japan
• - Website: EDF Japan
• - Parent Organization: EDF Main Site
• - Activities: EDF Japan, a branch of the leading American environmental organization, collaborates with fishermen, scientists, and government entities to promote sustainable fishing practices. They aim to introduce new scientific management methods and facilitate joint study sessions (MREP) to collaborate on fisheries management. Their efforts have successfully contributed to the recovery of marine resources along the US West Coast and in the Gulf of Mexico. With a team that includes former NOAA executives, EDF Japan is actively engaging stakeholders to envision the future of fisheries in Japan more effectively.