FAO and Norway Collaborate to Enhance Fisheries Resilience
The FAO and Norad are teaming up to strengthen Sri Lanka’s fisheries and aquaculture sector. This international cooperation aims to boost sustainable fishing and support the country’s blue economy. The goal is to ensure food security and promote responsible practices.
Fish is crucial for Sri Lanka’s protein needs. Over half of the nation’s animal protein comes from fish consumption. However, the industry faces many challenges.
Rising fuel prices and production costs are major issues. Fish loss along the value chain also impacts product affordability. These problems particularly affect low-income groups.
The FAO-Norway project will target three main areas. First, they’ll work to stop illegal and unreported fishing. Second, they’ll increase climate change resilience. Third, they’ll reduce food waste in the fisheries chain.
The project will provide technical support to various groups. These include policymakers, management experts, and industry professionals. Fishers, fish farmers, and fish workers will also receive help.
The aim is to boost Sri Lanka’s fisheries sector through responsible resource use. Marine conservation will play a key role in this effort. This will contribute to the country’s overall socio-economic growth.
Sri Lanka’s Fisheries Sector Faces Challenges
Sri Lanka’s fisheries industry supports 2.5 million coastal residents. It’s struggling amid the country’s economic crisis. The sector provides half of Sri Lankans’ animal protein but faces rising fuel prices and costs.
Economic Crisis Impacts Fisheries Industry
Fuel price hikes have hit the fisheries sector hard. Higher costs make it tough for fishers to earn a living. As a result, fish prices have increased, affecting low-income groups.
Rising Fuel Prices and Production Costs Affect Affordability
Fish is a key protein source for Sri Lankans. But soaring costs have made it less affordable for many households. This raises concerns about people’s nutrition, especially in lower-income groups.
Fish Loss and Waste Along the Value Chain
Sri Lanka’s fisheries face fish loss and waste issues. Poor cold storage and transport lead to post-harvest losses. This reduces fish supply in the market.
Addressing these problems is vital for food security. It’s also crucial for maintaining the sector’s long-term sustainability.
FAO and Norway Collaborate to Enhance Resilience in Fisheries Sector
FAO and Norway are teaming up to boost Sri Lanka’s fisheries sector. They’re focusing on responsible use of resources and building capacity. Their project aims to improve fisheries governance, fight illegal fishing, and adapt to climate change.
FAO delivered two climate-resilient fishing boats to the Ministry of Fisheries. These boats, SL20 and SL23, cost about LKR 9 million. The project also introduced 30 modified fish display stalls across Sri Lanka.
Developing Capacities to Combat Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated Fishing
The project aims to fight illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. It’s implementing Port State Measures and improving marine resources management. These efforts protect small-scale fishers’ livelihoods and ensure food security in Sri Lanka.
Increasing Resilience to Climate Change
Sri Lanka’s fisheries sector is vulnerable to climate change impacts. The project builds resilience through training and new technologies. Climate-resilient fishing boats are helping the sector adapt to changing conditions.
Reducing Food Loss and Waste in the Fisheries Value Chain
A NARA study found poor maintenance practices among Sri Lankan fish retailers. This leads to significant post-harvest losses. FAO’s new fish display stalls promote better handling and storage practices.
These stalls aim to reduce food loss along the fisheries value chain. The FAO-Norway partnership shows commitment to sustainable fisheries development in Sri Lanka. It addresses IUU fishing, climate change, and post-harvest losses.
This project aims to improve fishing communities’ well-being. It also ensures responsible use of fisheries resources for future generations.
Introducing Technology Upgrades for Sustainability
The FAO is boosting Sri Lanka’s fisheries with new tech upgrades. These aim to tackle issues like post-harvest losses and high fuel use. Advanced cooling, fuel-efficient tech, and AI apps will improve the industry’s sustainability.
Advanced Cooling Systems to Reduce Post-Harvest Losses
New cooling systems on multi-day fishing boats help cut post-harvest losses. These systems keep fish fresh and high-quality. This increases market value and reduces waste.
The upgrade benefits fishermen financially and supports food security. More of the catch now reaches consumers in better condition.
Fuel-Efficient Bulbous Bow Technology to Cut Fuel Consumption
The FAO has added fuel-efficient bulbous bow tech to fishing boats. This design change cuts drag and boosts efficiency. Boats with this tech can save up to 13% on fuel.
Lower fuel use means less cost for fishermen. It also reduces harmful emissions. This tech makes fishing more eco-friendly and cost-effective.
AI-Powered Mobile App for Real-Time Fish Quality Assessment
An AI-powered app now helps assess fish quality in real-time. It quickly checks catch quality against Yellowfin Tuna export standards. The app gives instant feedback on freshness, size, and overall condition.
This tool helps fishers and processors make smart choices. It boosts operations and meets global market needs. The app improves competitiveness and promotes sustainable fishing practices.