Ghana is facing severe economic pressures and, despite having less access to financial and scientific resources compared to the European Union, the government has taken strong measures to protect its coastal waters. By increasing its preferential access zone from six to 12 nautical miles, Ghana has provided exclusive access for local small fishermen and banned the entry of destructive vessels such as trawlers into its coastal waters.
Positive Impacts of Protected Areas
Real evidence shows that protected areas where trawling is prohibited help increase the resilience of small-scale fleets and accelerate the recovery of fish stocks while protecting coastal livelihoods. While the European Union is recognized as a global leader in combating illegal fishing and ocean protection, it still allows industrial vessels almost unrestricted access to coastal waters. This situation is detrimental to coastal communities and small fishermen, who make up the majority of the European fishing fleet.
Read more: Trump Administration Reduces Vehicle Fuel Economy Standards
Ghana's Experience in Marine Resource Management
Ghana's experience shows that governments can make significant policy changes when the voices of affected communities, evidence, and effective political leadership align. In Ghana, small-scale fishing is not just a job; it is the foundation of coastal communities. As a result, the expansion of the preferential access zone is based on the lived experiences of fishermen and their local knowledge. This approach, along with scientific evidence, has helped advance efforts to promote protected areas in Ghana, Brazil, the Philippines, and elsewhere.
In Portugal, Marsempre was established to defend marine cultural heritage and move towards sustainable seas. This organization began its activities following a significant tension due to an aquaculture project that harmed local livelihoods. Marsempre, in collaboration with other stakeholders, successfully created a national marine park in Pedra do Valado and is also seeking to protect areas vital for low-impact fishing boats.
Limiting industrial fleets' access to coastal waters is not only an environmental measure but also a vital lifeline for small fishermen, local food security, and coastal economies. For communities like Ferragudo, increasing these protected areas can help preserve fishing space and local livelihoods.
Read more: Complaint Against the European Commission Over Lack of Transparency in Data Center Energy Consumption · Hungry Bear Attacks Colorado Farmers' Market
