Smart Net-Zero

Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) | Source | Report |

Effective fisheries management is essential for sustainability, economic performance, and resilience in the face of climate change. According to the OECD Review of Fisheries 2025, 81% of assessed fish stocks are healthy, confirming the success of science-based management. However, only 59% of these meet productivity targets, and many valuable stocks remain unassessed due to limited capacity. Poorly managed or unassessed fisheries are more vulnerable to overfishing, illegal practices, and climate-related disruptions.

Climate change further complicates management, as rising ocean temperatures and shifting currents alter fish stock locations and viability. To address this, the brief calls for adaptive, data-driven governance, including regular stock assessments, dynamic catch limits, and strengthened international cooperation. Key recommendations include scaling up low-cost stock assessment tools, embedding climate adaptation strategies in management rules, and ensuring socio-economic support for communities impacted by climate-driven changes. Investing in sustainable management is a “win-win-win” for ocean health, fisher livelihoods, and global food security.