What we heard report: Adapting Canadian fisheries to a changing climate

November 1 to 2, 2023
11 am to 3:30 pm (EST) (Virtual)

On this page

• Executive summary
  • Context
  • Overview of the workshop
  • Overall key takeaways
  • Overall recommendations
  • Conclusion
• Report
• Introduction
• Day 1 - November 1, 2023
  • Opening and welcome
  • Keynote presentation: Vulnerabilities, impacts, and adaptation of climate change on marine capture fisheries
  • Panel presentation 1: Adaptive management in a changing world – North Atlantic right whale
  • Panel presentation 2: Using climate vulnerability information in fisheries management decisions in Atlantic Canada and the Eastern Arctic
  • Panel presentation 3: Foresighting: A method for long-term visioning and adaptation with coastal communities
  • Panel presentation 4: Climate change impacts to First Nations fisheries in British Columbia
  • Breakout session 1: Key risks and threats to Canada's fisheries under climate change
  • Breakout session 2: Visioning - the future of Canada's marine wild-capture fisheries
• Day 2 - November 2, 2023
  • Keynote presentation: A human dimensions lens on building climate resilient fisheries
  • Breakout session 3: Discussion and identification of specific information gaps, barriers, and disincentives to climate change adaptation
  • Breakout session 4: Identification of specific opportunities and incentives for climate change adaptation
  • Breakout session 5: Opportunities to build consensus on actionable adaptation measures and indication of next steps for fisheries climate adaptation planning
• Next steps and final remarks
• Conclusion
• Appendix A - Results of the Mentimeter exercise

Executive summary

Context

Climate change and biodiversity loss are altering Canada's oceans and aquatic ecosystems with significant social, cultural, and economic implications for fisheries and coastal and Indigenous communities. Canada's climate is warming at twice the rate of the global average, with the Arctic warming at three times the global rate.

Climate-driven changes in temperature, ocean chemistry, sea ice, water cycles, and extreme weather events are directly impacting the abundance, size, distribution, life cycles and survival of species. Increases in the frequency and magnitude of heat extremes have caused mass mortality events and local species losses in aquatic environments. Implications of these shifts include:

• increased competition between species at higher latitudes
• the introduction or expansion of emergent or invasive species
• increased predation on native species by invasive or transient species

Climate-projected declines in animal biomass would be most significant in areas that currently support the largest Canadian fishery landings. Coastal communities and infrastructure are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Climate-induced hazards, including more frequent and extreme weather events, have already contributed to infrastructure damage, loss of services and economic activity, damage to heritage resources, safety concerns and disrupted livelihoods in Canada's coastal communities.

These climate-driven changes are resulting in challenges for managing fisheries, such as changes in stock abundance and distribution affecting income, livelihoods and food security for Indigenous, coastal, and marine resource-dependent communities. They also present opportunities such as increases in stock abundance and the arrival of new fish stocks into some waters.

Continued investments in climate change adaptation to reduce risks, manage opportunities, and increase resilience are essential to ensure the conservation, sustainability and economic viability of ocean resources. Sustainable fisheries and food security depend on healthy aquatic ecosystems and the ability of the sector to adapt to climate change.

Overview of the workshop

On November 1 to 2, 2023, Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) convened a national workshop entitled Adapting Canadian Fisheries to a Changing Climate, representing an important step towards addressing the profound challenges posed by climate change to Canada's fisheries sector.

The workshop's overarching objectives were to:

• Set the conditions for a common understanding of the impacts of climate change on the fish harvesting sector in Canada
• Identify areas of biggest risk to Canada fisheries, including barriers and disincentives to climate change adaptation, as well as concrete actions to address them
• Identify opportunities and incentives, including future planning opportunities

The two-day workshop provided a platform where voices from Indigenous organizations, industry stakeholders, environmental non-government agencies and academic leaders could come together to openly discuss the tangible impacts of climate change on the harvesting sector.

Overall key takeaways

The workshop provided a roadmap for collective action and proactive planning. Through collaboration, inclusivity, and informed decision-making, Indigenous groups and stakeholders could be poised to create actionable adaptation measures and build resilience in Canada's marine fisheries, ensuring a sustainable and resilient future. Key takeaways from the workshop can be grouped under the following three themes:

Strengthen fisheries management for greater stock protection

• Holistic and ecosystem-based approaches: Participants stressed the need for a shift from traditional single-species management to holistic, ecosystem-based management. Managing fisheries in the broader socio-economic and ecological context can enhance long-term sustainability and resilience.

Enhance data availability, transparency and predictive-modelling capacity

• Interconnectedness of Indigenous groups and stakeholders: One of the prominent takeaways from the workshop was the recognition of the interconnectedness of resource users in the fisheries sector. Participants acknowledged that successful climate adaptation requires collaboration among government departments, Indigenous groups, the fish and seafood industry, environmental non-government organizations, academia, and local communities. This interconnectedness emphasizes the need for collective action and information sharing.
• Inclusivity and Indigenous involvement: Inclusivity and Indigenous involvement emerged as essential themes. Recognizing and respecting Indigenous knowledge and governance in fisheries management were emphasized. Co-management approaches, where Indigenous communities play a central role in decision-making, were seen as effective strategies for adaptation.

Support a climate-ready fishing industry

• Urgency of climate action: Participants unanimously acknowledged the urgency of addressing climate change impacts on Canada's marine fisheries. Climate change is already affecting fish stocks, ecosystems, and the livelihoods of coastal communities. This sense of urgency underscored the importance of proactive planning and immediate action.
• Information sharing and education: Access to timely and clear information on climate change impacts and adaptation strategies was identified as a critical need for harvesters and communities. Increasing climate literacy among fish harvesters and the public was seen as a way to foster understanding and support for mitigation and adaptation measures.

Overall recommendations

The discussions and insights generated during the workshop underscored the complex nature of climate change impacts on Canadian fisheries. The comprehensive responses highlighted several tangible actions that could guide the future of fisheries management and adaptation in the face of a changing climate. Key recommendations from the workshop can be grouped under the following three themes:

Strengthen fisheries management for greater stock protection

• Assessing climate risks: There was a strong call to assess the climate risk to fisheries infrastructure, fish stocks, and aquatic ecosystems. These assessments should precede planning and action, focusing on identifying priority needs for adaptation measures.
• Empowering Indigenous communities: Empowering Indigenous harvesters through co-management and giving them agency in decision-making processes were seen as important steps. This approach could lead to more effective adaptation strategies and outcomes.

Enhance data availability, transparency and predictive-modelling capacity

• Scenario planning and holistic approaches: Engaging in scenario planning and adopting holistic, ecosystem-based approaches to fisheries planning can help anticipate and address various climate change impacts.
• Collaborative actions and information sharing: Participants emphasized the importance of collaborative actions and information sharing among different resource users. The creation of dedicated spaces for information sharing and questions related to climate change adaptation was proposed, enabling Indigenous groups and stakeholders to access relevant data and knowledge.
• Transparency and communication: Ensuring transparency in DFO's internal operations and clear communication about their efforts in addressing climate change impacts were seen as essential for building trust and facilitating informed decision-making.

Support a climate-ready fishing industry

• Policy review and legislation change: Integrating climate change considerations into legal structures, such as the Fisheries Act, was identified as an opportunity for proactive adaptation and to signal the prioritization of climate resilience.
• Market incentives and sustainable practices: Promoting market incentives like marine stewardship labeling for sustainable and climate-resilient fishing practices can motivate harvesters to adapt and improve the quality of their products.
• Capacity building: Build the capacity of fishers, communities, and governments to adapt to changing conditions. Could include the development of climate-ready fisheries management plans that anticipate and respond to changes in fish species distribution and abundance.
• Task force establishment: Participants proposed creating a dedicated task force with a specific mandate to find solutions for addressing climate change challenges in the fisheries sector.

Conclusion

The workshop on climate adaptation in Canada's marine wild-capture fisheries provided a platform for Indigenous groups and diverse stakeholders to come together and address the complex challenges posed by climate change to the fisheries industry. The discussions and insights generated during the workshop highlighted several key takeaways and tangible actions that can guide the future of fisheries management and adaptation in the face of a changing climate.

Report – Adapting Canadian fisheries to a changing climate

Climate change and biodiversity loss are altering Canada's oceans and aquatic ecosystems with significant social, cultural, and economic implications for fisheries and coastal and Indigenous communities. Canada's climate is warming at twice the rate of the global average, with the Arctic warming at three times the global rate.

Climate-driven changes in temperature, ocean chemistry, sea ice, water cycles, and extreme weather events are directly impacting the abundance, size, distribution, life cycles and survival of species. Increases in the frequency and magnitude of heat extremes have caused mass mortality events and local species losses in aquatic environments.

Canada's oceans have warmed, become more acidic and less oxygenated for at least three decades. Climate change is projected to shift suitability ranges for North American fisheries while simultaneously causing changes in species abundances. Key implications of these shifts include:

• increased competition between species at higher latitudes
• the introduction or expansion of emergent or invasive species
• increased predation on native species by invasive or transient species

Under both a worst-case and strong mitigation emission scenarios, climate-projected declines in animal biomass would be most significant in areas that currently support the largest Canadian fishery landings. Canadian portions of the Arctic and Atlantic have experienced longer and more widespread sea-ice-free conditions. Baffin Bay and the Beaufort Sea are likely to be largely ice free by 2050.

Coastal communities and infrastructure are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Climate-induced hazards, including more frequent and extreme weather events, have already contributed to infrastructure damage, loss of services and economic activity, damage to heritage resources, safety concerns and disrupted livelihoods in Canada's coastal communities.

These climate-driven changes are resulting in challenges for managing fisheries, such as changes in stock abundance and distribution affecting income, livelihoods and food security for Indigenous, coastal, and marine resource-dependent communities, as well as opportunities such as increases in stock abundance and the arrival of new fish stocks into some waters.

Continued investments in climate change adaptation to reduce risks, manage opportunities, and increase resilience are essential to ensure the conservation, sustainability and economic viability of ocean resources. Sustainable fisheries and food security depend on healthy aquatic ecosystems and the ability of the sector to adapt to climate change.

Introduction

Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) convened a national workshop entitled Adapting Canadian Fisheries to a Changing Climate, representing an important step towards addressing the profound challenges posed by climate change to Canada's fisheries sector. The primary objective of this workshop was to provide a venue where Indigenous groups and key stakeholders from all three coasts could come together to discuss climate change impacts and potential adaptation measures within Canadian fisheries. The workshop spanned two half-days, scheduled from 11 am to 3:30 pm to accommodate Canada's diverse time zones.

DFO recognized the need to provide a platform where voices from Indigenous organizations, industry stakeholders, environmental non-government agencies and academic leaders could come together to openly discuss the tangible impacts of climate change on the harvesting sector.

To ensure the success of this initiative, DFO enlisted the services of the Intersol Group. The workshop was possible with support by Nature United.

The workshop's overarching objectives were to:

• Set the conditions for a common understanding of the impacts of climate change on the fish harvesting sector in Canada
• Identify areas of biggest risk to Canada's fisheries, including barriers and disincentives to climate change adaptation, as well as concrete actions to address them
• Identify opportunities and incentives, including future planning opportunities

On day one, the event featured a distinguished keynote speaker, followed by a panel of experts who provided real-world examples of climate change's effects on fisheries. Day two featured a second prominent keynote speaker, followed by a brief exercise that asked participants to rank a series of statements, and provide suggestions on changes that could make fisheries management more dynamic as it responds to future challenges (Appendix A).

The core of the workshop comprised a series of breakout sessions that:

• delved into key risks and threats
• envisioned the future of Canada's marine wild-capture fisheries
• uncovered information gaps and barriers hindering climate change adaptation
• identified specific opportunities
• facilitated consensus-building on actionable measures and next steps for fisheries climate adaptation

This "What we heard" report represents a summative overview of the insights, discussions, and key outcomes that emerged from the workshop. It encapsulates the perspectives shared by the diverse range of participants, providing a foundation for future action and policy development in support of Canada's fisheries amid the forces of climate change.

Day 1 - November 1, 2023

Opening and welcome

Welcome by Dr. Niall O'Dea, Senior Assistant Deputy Minister, Strategic Policy, Fisheries and Oceans Canada

Dr. O'Dea extended a warm welcome to each of the participants on behalf of DFO. He noted that the day marked a significant milestone as all participants embarked on a journey of collaboration, understanding, and action. In a world where climate change has become an inescapable reality, the collective efforts to safeguard Canada's fisheries has never been more vital. Dr. O'Dea commended each participant for their commitment, dedication to Canada's fisheries, and their willingness to engage in open and thoughtful dialogue on the complexities of climate adaptation and explore ideas to improve the resiliency of Canada's marine fisheries.

Meeting opening by Elder Noel Milliea

Before delving into the discussions that lay ahead, everyone took a moment to acknowledge and honor the land upon which we gathered. With gratitude, participants received the wisdom and blessings of Elder Noel Milliea, whose presence connected all to the teachings of the land and its people. His words guided deliberations, infusing the proceedings with respect, unity, and a deep reverence for the natural world.

Keynote presentation: Vulnerabilities, impacts, and adaptation of climate change on marine capture fisheries

Presented by Dr. William Cheung, Professor and Director, Canada Research Chair in Ocean Sustainability and Global Change, Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries

Overview

Dr. William Cheung's keynote presentation shed light on the vulnerabilities and far-reaching impacts of climate change on Canada's marine capture fisheries. Dr. Cheung's expertise illuminated the complex interplay between rising sea temperatures, shifting fish populations, and the livelihoods of countless coastal communities. His insights underscored the urgency of our shared mission to adapt and thrive in the face of these challenges. He emphasized the critical need for science-based decision-making, adaptive management strategies, and cross-sector collaboration.

Dr. Cheung's keynote presentation encouraged a commitment to embrace innovation, resilience, and sustainability in safeguarding our marine ecosystems for generations to come. The primary takeaway from this presentation, as a critical foundation that set the tone for the workshop, was the urgency of the industry's shared mission to adapt and thrive in the face of these challenges.

Key takeaways

• Climate change vulnerabilities: Climate change poses significant vulnerabilities to marine capture fisheries, impacting both fish species and the communities dependent on them
• Changing ocean conditions: Rising sea temperatures, ocean acidification, and altered circulation patterns are leading to shifts in the distribution and behavior of marine species
• Species redistribution: Fish species are migrating towards cooler waters, affecting the traditional fishing grounds of many communities
• Ecosystem effects: Climate change disrupts marine ecosystems, leading to changes in prey-predator relationships and overall ecosystem health
• Socioeconomic impact: Vulnerable coastal communities, particularly in developing countries, are highly dependent on fisheries and are at risk of losing livelihoods due to these changes
• Need for adaptation: Adaptation strategies are essential to address the challenges posed by climate change on marine capture fisheries

Summary

In summary, Dr. William Cheung's keynote speech highlighted the vulnerabilities and impacts of climate change on marine capture fisheries and emphasized the importance of adaptation. The recommendations focused on:

• scientific research
• ecosystem-based management
• integrated planning
• capacity building
• international cooperation
• sustainable practices
• climate resilience
• community engagement
• public awareness to address these challenges effectively

Panel presentation 1: Adaptive management in a changing world – North Atlantic right whale

Presented by Andrea Morden, Manager, Fisheries Resource Management, Fisheries and Oceans Canada.

Key takeaways

• The dynamic and evolving nature of the marine environment was highlighted, especially concerning the North Atlantic right whale population
• North Atlantic right whales are an endangered species facing numerous threats, including ship strikes and entanglement in fishing gear
  • Climate change compounds these threats
• Adaptive management is a crucial approach to address the complex challenges posed by changing environmental conditions and the need for species conservation
• Effective adaptive management requires collaboration among various stakeholders, including government agencies, researchers, industry, and conservation groups
• Decision-making processes should be informed by the best available data and science to support adaptive management strategies

Panel presentation 2: Using climate vulnerability information in fisheries management decisions in Atlantic Canada and the Eastern Arctic

Presented by Katie Schleit, Fisheries Director, Oceans North

Key takeaways

• Shared observations of climate-related changes in fisheries, including shifts in fish populations and increasing temperatures
• Highlighted the need for integrating climate change considerations into fisheries management actions
• Shared the Climate Risk Index for Biodiversity (CRIB) Framework, which revealed that many marine species face a high risk of climate change impacts

Panel presentation 3: Foresighting: A method for long-term visioning and adaptation with coastal communities

Presented by: Dr. Paul Foley, Associate Professor, Environmental Policy Institute, Memorial University of Newfoundland, and Co-Principal Investigator, Future Ocean and Community Infrastructure project and Dr. Umme Kulsum, Ocean Frontier Institute Post-Doctoral Fellow, Environmental Policy Institute, Memorial University of Newfoundland, and Co-Principal Investigator, Future Ocean and Community Infrastructure project.

Key takeaways

• Emphasized the importance of long-term futures thinking to address climate change challenges
• Introduced foresighting as a recognized approach for long-term thinking and planning
• Highlighted the need for full-spectrum fisheries foresighting, considering ecological, economic, social, and institutional objectives

Panel presentation 4: Climate change impacts to First Nations fisheries in British Columbia

Presented by Janson Wong, Sr. Manager, Policy and Fish Management, First Nations Fisheries Council of British Columbia and John Henderson, Vice-President, First Nations Fisheries Council of British Columbia

Key takeaways

• Focused on climate change impacts on First Nations fisheries in British Columbia
• Indigenous communities are particularly vulnerable to changing environmental conditions
• Highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts and knowledge sharing

Breakout session 1: Key risks and threats to Canada's fisheries under climate change

Key themes and insights related to developing consensus on key risks and threats to Canada's fisheries under climate change, and identification of what is needed to adapt were identified under the following three discussion questions.

Species distribution shifts

• Participants highlighted significant changes in the depth and distribution of marine species.
• Some species are moving northward, while others are expanding into new areas due to warmer waters.
• For example, warmer waters have expanded the thermal habitat available for species like halibut.

Population size dynamics

• Climate change has led to the degradation of population sizes in certain areas, while others have seen increases, particularly in Northern regions.

Impact on fishers

• More frequent and severe coastal storms are contributing to infrastructure damage, loss of services and economic activity, safety concerns and disrupted livelihoods.
• Extreme weather events have also affected fishing gear through increased damage and losses, and made recovery of gear challenging, particularly on the Atlantic coast.

Shortened lifecycles

• Warmer temperatures have led to shortened and disrupted lifecycles of species, impacting their availability.

Redfish impact

• The rise of redfish in the Gulf has had an impact on shrimp populations.

Ecosystem connections

• Climate change not only affects fish populations but also has a cascading effect on ecosystems, including phytoplankton blooms and invasive species.

Community and equity

• Coastal communities are facing challenges related to fishery access, and equity issues exist in accessing fisheries.

Need for updated science

• There's a need for fisheries science to better incorporate climate change impacts and be transparent in existing processes.

Role of Indigenous knowledge

• Participants stressed the importance of Indigenous knowledge and community science in understanding and addressing climate impacts.

Species displacement

• Climate change has caused the repositioning of certain fisheries, affecting species such as gulf shrimp and redfish.

Altered natural predators

• The proliferation of natural predators, such as seals, and their adaptive behavior pose a risk to fisheries.

Government inertia

• The lack of action by governments in addressing climate change can lead to economic losses for the fishing industry.

Swift decision-making

• At times, decisions regarding fisheries management or updates to policies and procedures are rushed without adequate consultation, potentially resulting in negative consequences for fish harvesters.

Invasive species invasion

• The introduction of new or increased populations of invasive species due to climate change is a growing concern.

Marine epidemic proliferation

• The possibility of increased marine epidemics and infectious diseases is viewed as a threat.

Degradation of habitats and ecosystems

• Climate-related factors are causing the degradation of habitats and ecosystems, which is affecting fisheries.

Building resilience

• Building resilience to extreme events, such as storms, is considered urgent to protect fisheries and coastal communities.

Investment in research

• Continued investment in research, and fish stock rebuilding is critical to succeed in our action against climate change and its impact.

Governance response

• The ability to respond quickly and coordinate actions from a governance perspective is essential.
• Participants emphasized the need for shared values and adaptability in responses.

Adaptive fisheries management

• Participants stressed the urgency of adapting fisheries management and planning to rapidly change environmental conditions.
• Scenario planning was recommended to prepare for a range of climate-related scenarios.

Summary of breakout session 1

These discussions underscored the complex and multifaceted nature of climate change impacts on Canadian fisheries. It is evident that collaborative efforts, informed decision-making, adapting the current fisheries management regime and future planning activities are crucial to address these challenges and ensure the sustainability of Canada's fisheries in the face of climate change.

Breakout session 2: Visioning - the future of Canada's marine wild-capture fisheries

Participants were asked to engage in a Visioning Exercise on the future of Canada's marine wild-capture fisheries in order to develop an understanding of shared areas of interest.

Fish stock consequences

• Expected outcomes for fish species include a decrease in existing species, alterations in their distribution, a higher number of fisheries subject to moratoria, and an elevated incidence of diseases.

Navigating the unpredictable

• Concerns revolved around the management of the unpredictable and aspects of adaptation strategies that cannot be foreseen due to the ever-evolving nature of adaptation.
• There's also a continued need to learn which measures are effective and efficient, and which require modification through practical experience.

Community impact

• Emphasis was placed on the impact on communities, including shifts in economic dynamics, resilience, loss of cultural knowledge, and the vulnerability of supply chains.

Job losses and coastal communities' dilemma

• Participants foresee a decline in employment within the fisheries sector, leading to economic repercussions, especially in more vulnerable coastal communities.

Market and economic transformations

• Anticipated changes in the fish and seafood market includes a reduction in the value of high-value shellfish and the introduction of new, lower-value species.

Conflict and strained relations

• Expectations include heightened conflict rates among resource users and increased uncertainty, as well as tensions between achieving ecological and social objectives.

Global leadership

• Participants want to see Canada emerge as a global leader in adaptive and sustainable fisheries management through best practices.

Community focus

• Prioritizing community-based fisheries over foreign corporate interests to address local food security was emphasized.

Resilience and inclusion

• Desired outcomes included resilient communities, inclusive decision-making, and better relationships between different social systems governing fisheries.

National understanding

• A national understanding of the importance of fisheries along the three coasts is sought.

Integration and collaboration

• Integrating fisheries with a wide range of coastal and ocean uses and fostering collaboration among stakeholders are key goals.

Climate resilience

• Measures to enhance climate resilience, cleaner fishing practices, and climate explicit policies are important outcomes.

Indigenous engagement

• Desired outcomes include more harmonious relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous fish harvesters, greater incorporation of Indigenous Traditional Knowledge, and successful cultural harvests by Indigenous communities.

Sustainable ecosystems

• Participants aspire to see Canada's marine ecosystems healthy and sustainable.

Food security

• Ensuring food security for coastal communities and all Canadians is a priority.

Adaptive management

• The promotion of adaptive management approaches to fisheries management was emphasized.

Equity and access

• Ensuring equitable and inclusive fisheries and the inclusion of multiple perspectives within the management of fisheries are desired outcomes.

Sustainable tourism

• Increased sustainable tourism and offshore industries are part of the vision for the future.

Elimination of by-catch and greater mitigation efforts

• Eliminating by-catch and reducing the carbon footprint in fisheries are important goals.

Ecosystem vitality

• The health of fish stocks and ecosystems stands as a fundamental gauge of progress.

Employment opportunities

• Indicators of success encompass the availability of employment opportunities in coastal communities and the fishing industry.

Unified vision and cooperation

• Success is linked to the presence of a shared vision for the future of Canada's fisheries, collaborative efforts, and alignment with policy.

Sustainability practices

• Success is marked by the adoption of precautionary and ecosystem-based approaches, along with legislative and regulatory adjustments to address climate change.

Community well-being

• Important measures include the well-being of communities, socio-economic health, and socio-ecological resilience.

Climate consideration

• Success entails the integration of climate-related factors into fisheries management, as well as explicit assessments of trade-offs for adaptation.

Indigenous engagement

• Success is indicated by increased involvement of Indigenous communities in fisheries management and the incorporation of Indigenous knowledge.

Market transformations

• Measures include the shift towards greater consumption of locally harvested seafood and the expansion of the coastal economy.
• It also involves the establishment of more effective feedback loops between harvest and consumption in Canada.

Governance and policy alignment

• Success is associated with the alignment of governance structures and policies with the realities of climate change.

Summary of breakout session 2

These insights reflect the participants' collective vision for Canada's fisheries in 2050, emphasizing sustainability, resilience, collaboration, and adaptation in the face of climate change. It is also noted that some participants objected to the 2050 timeframe used in this exercise, indicating that instead, this exercise should have taken place in the context of the next five to ten years.

Day 2 - November 2, 2023

Keynote presentation: A human dimensions lens on building climate resilient fisheries

Presented by: Dr. Derek Armitage, PhD. Professor, School of Environment, Resources and Sustainability, University of Waterloo

Overview

Dr. Derek Armitage's keynote presentation offered crucial insights into understanding fisheries as complex social-ecological systems that are deeply influenced by climate change, vulnerability, and adaptation. He highlighted the need to shift our perspective from a narrow focus on adaptation to a broader concept of resilience.

Fisheries, as dynamic and variable systems, involve numerous interconnected interactions between people and nature across the entire fishery chain. Effective assessments of adaptation must consider all these interactions and feedback loops. Dr. Armitage underscored the limitations of a vulnerability/adaptation lens and introduces resilience as the ability of a fishery to withstand unexpected disturbances while maintaining essential characteristics and enhancing its preparedness for future challenges.

Resilience attributes are multifaceted and should be examined in various contexts, emphasizing the importance of equity, justice, and social objectives in adaptation and resilience-building efforts. Dr. Armitage called for inclusive processes that bridge different forms of knowledge, experiences, and expertise, with a focus on systemic approaches that consider both climate and non-climate drivers, such as fisheries licensing.

Ultimately, his presentation highlighted the complex and multifaceted nature of building climate-resilient fisheries while emphasizing the importance of social dimensions, equity, and collaborative, systems-based approaches.

Key takeaways

• Complexity of fisheries systems: Fisheries are dynamic and variable systems characterized by a wide range of linked interactions between people and nature throughout the entire fishery chain. These interactions and feedback loops must be considered comprehensively in assessments of adaptation.
• Beyond sectoral solutions: Climate adaptation solutions are not limited to specific fishery sectors or time-bound approaches. Effective adaptation should encompass a systemic perspective that considers both climate and non-climate drivers, such as fisheries licensing.
• Attributes of resilience: Resilience attributes are multifaceted and interconnected, reinforcing each other. These attributes are relevant in various contexts and should be considered when developing adaptation and resilience-building strategies.
• Equity and justice implications: There are equity and justice implications of climate adaptation and resilience-building efforts. Questions "of what," "to what," and "for whom" should be central in these discussions. Property law, market/economic values, and perspectives (individual vs. collective) can present barriers to inclusion and sovereignty.
• Inclusive processes: The presentation emphasized the importance of inclusive processes that bridge different forms of knowledge, experiences, and expertise. These processes should aim to make social objectives and values explicit and actionable, reflecting a full range of "human dimensions" insights.
• Interplay of drivers: In understanding adaptation and resilience, it is crucial to consider the interplay of non-climatic drivers, such as fisheries licensing, with climate drivers. This holistic perspective can lead to more effective responses.

Summary

In summary, Dr. Derek Armitage's keynote presentation emphasized the multifaceted nature of building climate-resilient fisheries. It called for a shift towards resilience, considering the interplay of social and ecological factors, equity and justice implications, and the need for inclusive, collaborative processes. Adaptation in the context of resilience focuses on managing the capacity of fisheries systems to cope with future changes while supporting human well-being.

Breakout session 3: Discussion and identification of specific information gaps, barriers, and disincentives to climate change adaptation

Key themes and insights related to the identification of specific information gaps, barriers and disincentives to climate change adaptation; as well as potential solutions were identified under the following four discussion questions.

Resource allocation and availability challenges

• Identifying resource availability and allocation challenges, determining where to invest resources, and setting priorities while considering future budget implications.

Integration of external information

• Incorporating information from external sources into the existing system.

Rigidity in fisheries policies

• The lack of flexibility in national and provincial fisheries policies.

Climate impact assessment

• Evaluating the extent to which climate impacts are taken into account in fisheries science and decision-making.

Addressing specific events

• Dealing with specific events that demand immediate attention and funding.

Ocean's role in climate discussions

• Acknowledging the significance of ocean-surface observation in climate-related discussions.

Community engagement and coalition formation

• The necessity for effective community involvement and the formation of strategic coalitions.

Industry participation

• Involving the fishing industry in discussions on climate adaptation.

Policy considerations

• The absence of overarching approaches and management plans for climate change adaptation policies, and the need to reinforce sustainable fisheries frameworks with considerations for climate and ecosystems.

National vs. provincial policy discrepancies

• Discrepancies between national and provincial policies.

Jurisdictional challenges

• Difficulties associated with jurisdictional boundaries and the absence of explicit climate change considerations in the Fisheries Act.

Information gaps

• Deficiencies in microscale data, including information about water sources and the impacts of temperature on fisheries, necessitating partnerships to support data collection.

Scale complexity

• Recognizing the importance of understanding impacts at various scales.

Political sensitivity

• Considering political factors and potential obstacles when advancing climate-related initiatives.

Bridging community impacts and policies

• Collaborating among government, NGOs, and communities to connect observed impacts with adaptation policies.

Population dynamics and species movements

• Information gaps concerning population dynamics and the movements of species, as well as involving fish harvesters and fishery associations in data collection.

Governance policy transition

• The need for a shift in the DFO towards a research-focused organization and a focus on local knowledge in fisheries management planning.

Comprehensive and holistic approach

• Advocating for a comprehensive and holistic perspective that takes into account all relevant factors, including the socio-economic context.

First Nations' perspective

• Addressing policy gaps from a First Nations perspective.

Collaborative decision-making

• Emphasizing the importance of collaborative decision-making that includes all stakeholders.

Challenges stemming from the Fisheries Act

• Recognizing that many challenges originate from the Fisheries Act.

High financial burden

• The expense associated with replacing existing equipment with more environmentally friendly options, particularly for independent owner-operators, was identified as a hindrance.

Balancing diverse user needs

• The challenge of addressing the varied needs of different user groups.

Single-species management favoritism

• The current preference for fisheries management processes that prioritize single-species management was regarded as an obstacle to adaptation when compared to a longer-term, multi-species ecosystem approach.

Short-term, reactive approach

• The inclination of fisheries management and policies to focus on reactive decision-making, lacking sufficient long-term planning and future foresight, was seen as a significant barrier to adaptation.

Lack of collaborative efforts

• The need for increased collaboration to facilitate the sharing of information.

Implementation hurdles

• Challenges related to the transfer and implementation of tools and innovations developed for addressing climate change impacts.

Departmental isolation

• Difficulties arising from silos within departments and limited access to necessary resources.

Budgetary constraints

• Concerns regarding financial limitations and potential difficulties in securing funding for adaptation initiatives.

Navigating uncertainty

• The challenge of navigating uncertainty, particularly in determining where to allocate efforts and resources.

Complex jurisdictional matters

• The complexity of dealing with jurisdictional boundaries in the context of climate change impacts.

Lack of policy clarity

• Issues related to the clarity of policy gaps and the decision-making process.

Biodiversity loss

• The risk of losing biodiversity in ecosystems due to inadequate adaptation measures.

Ecosystem collapse

• The potential for ecosystem collapse because of maladaptation.

Misalignment with other sectors

• The risk of misaligning adaptation strategies with other ocean user groups, such as the oil industry.

Unsuccessful species shifts

• Risks associated with encouraging fisheries to shift to new species that may not grow or develop as anticipated.

Inaction

• The risks associated with not taking adequate adaptation measures.

Impact on jobs and identity

• The potential impact on jobs, cultural identity, and overall quality of life due to resource depletion.

Summary of breakout session 3

These insights underscore the complexities and challenges in adapting fisheries management to climate change and emphasize the importance of flexible policies, collaboration, and a long-term, approach to ensure sustainable and resilient fisheries systems.

Breakout session 4: Identification of specific opportunities and incentives for climate change adaptation

Key themes and insights related to climate change adaptation and future planning opportunities were identified under the following four discussion questions.

Species distribution shifts

• Climate change can lead to shifts in the distribution of marine species.
• For example, certain species like rockfish in the Pacific and redfish in the Atlantic have benefited from changing environmental conditions. This shift presents opportunities for fish harvesters to explore new catch options.

Legislation and regulation revisions

• Climate change provides an opportunity to revisit and improve Canadian legislation and regulations related to fisheries.
• The Oceans Act and Fisheries Act could be revised to explicitly include climate change considerations.
• Reviewing fisheries management processes and Marine Protected Area management plans to make them more dynamic is an opportunity to also improve transparency for how decisions are made.

Barrier identification

• Recognizing the barriers and problems in the current fisheries management processes is essential for adaptation.
• Successful solutions include the development of precautionary frameworks to predict the consequences of adopting or not adopting certain measures and conducting surveys to identify data gaps and barriers systematically.

Tool integration

• There's an opportunity to bridge the gap between available tools and their implementation, both at local and national levels.
• For instance, machine learning can be used to optimize scenario planning for fisheries portfolios.

Economic incentives

• Adaptation can be driven by economic factors, such as rising energy costs.
• Providing subsidies and support for sustainable fishing practices can incentivize fish harvesters to adapt to climate change impacts.

Market incentives

• Promoting seafood products with labels to market sustainable and climate-friendly or whale-safe caught seafood, can attract consumers willing to pay more for environmentally responsible products.
• Labelling initiatives need to be clear and widespread.

Community engagement

• Collaboration and engagement with local communities, including Indigenous communities, can be a powerful incentive for adaptation.
• Co-management approaches that involve harvesters in decision-making processes can enhance resilience.

Ecosystem-based management

• Shifting from traditional single-species management to ecosystem-based management offers incentives for adaptation by considering the broader socio-economic context and long-term sustainability of the resource.

Public awareness

• Leveraging public interest and investments in climate change research can lead to increased support for adaptation measures.
• Public understanding and concern can drive policy changes and funding allocation.

Access to information

• Harvesters need regular and clear information on climate change impacts and adaptation actions.
• Providing harvesters with real-time data on changing ocean conditions and fish stocks can assist in understanding why certain decisions are being made.

Economic support

• Addressing the economic challenges posed by climate change, such as rising energy costs, through financial support can ease the burden on harvesters.
• Identifying mechanisms to reduce costs to adopt greener technologies and gear is vital.

Knowledge transfer

• Initiatives should focus on knowledge transfer to enable younger generations to continue fishing.
• Ensuring that retiring harvesters pass on their expertise and skills to successors can maintain continuity.

Governance reform

• Empowering Indigenous harvesters through co-management and giving them agency in decision-making processes can lead to more effective adaptation strategies.

Market incentives

• Encouraging sustainable and climate-resilient fishing practices by promoting market incentives like marine stewardship labeling can motivate harvesters to adapt and improve the quality of their products.

Flexibility

• Fisheries management should allow for flexibility in response to changing conditions.
• Structural adjustments and alternative models for income generation during closures can protect the livelihoods of harvesters.

Scenario planning

• Engaging in scenario planning to anticipate various scenarios resulting from potential climate change impacts could help in developing proactive responses to future challenges.

Holistic approaches

• Adopting holistic and ecosystem-based approaches to fisheries planning that consider the interconnectedness of species and ecosystems.

Indigenous and stakeholder involvement

• Encouraging participation from Indigenous communities and other stakeholders in long-term climate change adaptation strategies, including the development of climate action plans with adequate funding.

Risk-based planning

• Utilizing risk-based planning approaches to identify vulnerabilities and prioritize adaptation actions effectively.

Integrated and inclusive planning

• Striving for integrated, long-term planning that involves collaboration across sectors and stakeholders. This approach may be slower but will result in more sustainable outcomes.

Knowledge building

• Investing in building knowledge and capacity within the Canadian market, ensuring that stakeholders are well-informed about climate change impacts and adaptation measures.

Collaborative activities

• Participating in planning activities that foster collaboration, knowledge sharing, and collective thinking among diverse groups.

Meeting integration

• Including climate change as a prominent topic in meetings and discussions related to fisheries and oceans management.

Integration of climate change in legislation

• Advocating for the inclusion of climate change considerations in fisheries and oceans legislation to ensure legal frameworks support adaptation efforts.

Summary of breakout session 4

These comprehensive responses highlight the multifaceted nature of climate change adaptation in fisheries management, emphasizing the importance of proactive planning, collaboration, and supportive policies and incentives for harvesters and communities.

Breakout session 5: Opportunities to build consensus on actionable adaptation measures and indication of next steps for fisheries climate adaptation planning

Key themes and insights related to the opportunity to build consensus on actionable adaptation measures and next steps for fisheries climate adaptation planning were identified under the following three discussion questions.

Collaborative actions and information sharing

• Participants emphasized the importance of collaborative actions and information sharing among different resource users, including Indigenous groups, government departments, the fish and seafood industry, environmental non-government organizations and academia.
• Sharing information and expertise can facilitate coordinated responses to climate change impacts.
• Creating a dedicated space for information sharing and questions related to climate change adaptation was proposed. This would enable stakeholders to access relevant data and knowledge, fostering informed decision-making.

Interdepartmental working in DFO

• Participants identified a missed opportunity in the lack of interdepartmental collaboration within the various sectors and regions of DFO.
• They highlighted the need for improved integration and communication among different sectors within DFO to address climate adaptation effectively.

Identifying climate risks

• Participants stressed the importance of assessing the climate risk to Canadian fisheries infrastructure, fish stocks, and aquatic ecosystems.
• These assessments should precede planning and action, with a focus on identifying priority needs for adaptation measures.

Species impact assessment

• There was an emphasis on identifying species that are changing and emerging because of climate change and assessing their impact on communities.
• Furthermore, discussions revolved around how to utilize this information effectively.

Creating consensus

• Building consensus among stakeholders on the urgency of climate action and adaptation was seen as a vital step.
• This includes engaging in discussions and dialogues that bring together diverse perspectives.

Task force establishment

• Participants proposed creating a dedicated task force with a specific mandate to find solutions for addressing climate change challenges in the fisheries sector.

Policy review and legislation change

• Identifying policy review and legislation change as the priority was highlighted.
• Participants suggested that integrating climate change considerations into legal structures, such as the Fisheries Act, is an opportunity for proactive adaptation.

Leadership and collaboration

• Leadership was considered key to driving substantive change.
• This involves identifying community leaders and giving them the space and time to collaborate in a culture of cooperation.

Government-to-government engagement

• Engaging with Indigenous groups and leveraging existing relationships between various groups and government was emphasized.
• Climate change should be incorporated into these existing relationships and actioned upon.

Education and articulation

• The need for further education and articulation of climate change problems to ensure productive discussions was acknowledged.

Immediate action

• There was a call to start taking concrete steps immediately, even if the full path forward is not yet known.
• Proactive establishment of a concrete adaptation plan was suggested.

Climate literacy

• Participants stressed the importance of increasing climate literacy among stakeholders and informing the public on how climate change is expected to impact fisheries.
• This would ensure a better understanding of the need for mitigation and adaptation measures.

Governance reform

• Acknowledging that the issue of governance extends beyond individual actions and is a broader, systemic concern.
• Attendees advocated for a comprehensive governmental strategy to tackle governance problems.
• This approach should encompass various aspects, including those linked to Indigenous governance and the process of reconciliation.

Impacts on infrastructure

• The impacts of climate change on fisheries infrastructure, such as forest fires affecting harbours, was noted as an urgent issue to consider in adaptation planning.

Small-scale fisheries

• The role of small-scale fisheries and their strategies for dealing with change should be explored further.
• There was a suggestion to focus on funding opportunities and capacity building for regional and local organizations to assist in adaptation efforts.

Timelines and urgency

• Participants raised questions about the timeline for climate change impacts and the urgency for adaptation.
• They emphasized the need to discuss time more concretely.

Inclusivity of the blue economy

• Climate change discussions must be inclusive of the blue economy, recognizing the importance of consultations and sustainable practices.

Mitigation

• Mitigation strategies were highlighted as an essential part of climate change discussions.

Provincial roles

• The roles and responsibilities of provinces in adaptation planning, including employment considerations, were suggested for further exploration.

Implementation of climate adaptation

• The implementation of climate adaptation measures within regional fisheries organizations and the challenges they face require attention and study.

Offshore renewable energy

• The lack of integrated planning and regulation at the federal and provincial levels for offshore renewable energy was noted as an area of concern.

Public education and political engagement

• Raising awareness within the public and gaining political support for marine aspects of climate change was identified as a challenge.

Land-based inputs

• The impact of land-based inputs such as agricultural runoff and sewage, on oceans and fisheries was highlighted, along with their cumulative impacts.

Licensing concerns

• Concerns related to fishing licenses, especially if catches decline, were mentioned.

Cultural and species loss

• The loss of culture and traditional practices due to species shifts and climate impacts was emphasized.

Infrastructure impact

• Infrastructure's role in adaptation planning, particularly regarding forest fires and harbor closures, should be considered.

Small-scale fisheries

• The importance of recognizing and enhancing small-scale fisheries was suggested, focusing on their sustainability and adaptation strategies.

Regional workshops

• Participants proposed continuing these workshops at both national and regional levels.
• Regional workshops would include Indigenous groups and address local concerns.

Addressing connectivity barriers

• It was highlighted that discussions should consider internet connectivity and computer literacy, especially in rural and remote areas.
• Ensuring accessibility for all participants is crucial.

Inter-departmental connectivity

• Facilitating inter-departmental connectivity for aligned and collective climate action was suggested.
• Different government departments need to collaborate effectively.

Industry and community engagement

• Participants emphasized the importance of engaging with industry leaders, Indigenous groups, and local communities directly involved in fishing to understand their needs and perspectives.
• This includes conducting interviews and gathering information at the grassroots level.

Structured networking

• Creating structured networks or working groups that allow stakeholders to collaborate effectively and work toward actionable measures was proposed.

Funding and capacity building

• Allocating funding and capacity-building resources to regional and local organizations for adaptation efforts was recommended.

Holistic community planning

• Encouraging community planning and foresight to understand adaptation options and shared visions for food security was suggested.

Transparency and communication

• Ensuring transparency in DFO's internal operations and clear communication about their efforts in addressing climate change impacts was seen as essential.

Summary of breakout session 5

These insights and themes reflect the comprehensive and collaborative approach needed to address climate change impacts on Canada's wild-capture marine fisheries effectively. They emphasize the importance of inclusivity, information sharing, leadership, and proactive planning to build consensus and adapt to changing environmental conditions.

Next steps and final remarks

The workshop proceedings were closed by Mark Waddell, Director General, Fisheries Policy, Fisheries and Oceans Canada

In closing, the workshop provided all participants with valuable insights, perspectives, and potential next steps in their collective journey towards climate adaptation in Canada's marine wild-capture fisheries. As we move forward, Mr. Waddell emphasised that collaboration, inclusivity, and proactive planning will be the cornerstones of the industry's success. The commitment shown by all participants, representing various sectors and communities, underscored the urgency of addressing climate change impacts on our fisheries.

With this shared dedication, he believes that we are poised to create actionable adaptation measures, foster consensus, and build resilience in our fisheries. He extended his gratitude to all who contributed to this workshop, and invited continued dialogue, innovation, and collective action in the face of these complex and evolving challenges. He reiterated his belief that together, we can secure a sustainable and resilient future for Canada's marine fisheries.

Conclusion

The workshop on climate adaptation in Canada's marine wild-capture fisheries provided a platform for Indigenous groups and diverse stakeholders to come together and address the complex challenges posed by climate change to the fisheries industry. The discussions and insights generated during the workshop highlighted several key takeaways and tangible actions that can guide the future of fisheries management and adaptation in the face of a changing climate.

In conclusion, the workshop on climate adaptation in Canada's wild-capture marine fisheries provided a roadmap for collective action and proactive planning. The commitment and dedication of all participants, representing various sectors and communities, underscored the urgency of addressing climate change impacts on fisheries. Through collaboration, inclusivity, and informed decision-making, stakeholders are poised to create actionable adaptation measures and build resilience in Canada's marine fisheries, ensuring a sustainable and resilient future.

Appendix A - Results of the Mentimeter exercise

Responses:

• More community-based practices.
• Follow the science.
• Financial incentives for retrofitting commercial fishing vessels to hybrid or electric technologies. Reduce access/licensing by foreign corporations. Mandate biodegradable equipment.
• Overarching framework/policy commitment for decision makers.
• Easier incorporation of Indigenous traditional knowledge into local regulations and policies.
• Flexibility in licensing projections to anticipate change and plan for its consultation and involvement of communities and industry to plan for change.
• Paradigm shift in the way we look at climate and global changes and we look at management of natural resources and SES.
• Improved collection of critical scientific data to support fisheries stock assessments and fisheries management advice.
• Co-management.
• Increased communication and collaboration.
• While single species management may still be applicable, Canada should proactively implement multispecies/ecosystem fisheries management regime to better position us going forward and able to adapt.
• Implement policy recommendations in DFO's 2005 Atlantic Fisheries Policy Review for strengthening of well-funded, legitimate, democratic fish harvester organizations representing all harvesters.
• More knowledge at more scales, including Indigenous and local knowledge from diverse disciplines (sciences, social sciences, humanities, arts).
• Have an action or adaptation plan.
• Better process to engage communities and knowledges.
• Reliable information and data.
• Ecosystem approaches to fisheries management and inclusion of Indigenous knowledge in revised policies and practices.
• Better use/development of technology in monitoring/analysing environmental/ecosystem changes. Also, we need to complete a retrospective analysis of significant shifts in stock status and climate shift.
• Prioritize funding science research to better inform policy makers of changes we see anecdotally now and to close the gap/lag between climate change impacts and policy that mitigates it.
• Need to look at recent science as the new benchmark as things are evolving quickly.
• Building capacity to bridge silos and bridge across single-species management approaches and biodiversity protection tools – to actively integrate and align approaches.
• Provide fisheries management with greater resources.