Estimating the impact of irregular and unsustainable fishing of distant-water fishing fleets in Ecuador

This policy brief synthesises information from the flagship ODI report 'Fishy Business', highlighting the composition of the domestic and foreign fleets present in the Ecuadorian exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

The brief describes: the types of vessels and ownership structure operating in the area; key companies involved in Ecuador's fishing industry and the controversies surrounding them; and the impacts of illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing activities.

It also addresses the ecological concerns associated with Fish Aggregating Devices (FADs), including their impact on marine life and the generation of marine litter.

Recommendations for policymakers

Enforce stricter regulation on FADs to minimise their environmental impact by limiting the number deployed by each vessel and ensuring their systematic retrieval.
Implement comprehensive marine litter management programmes to address the accumulation of FAD residues and other fishing-related debris.
Promote the use of biodegradable materials for FADs and other fishing gear to reduce the environmental footprint.
Promote sustainable fishing certifications by encouraging more vessels and companies to obtain certifications from organisations like the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC).
Increase transparency and accountability in the fishing industry to address the discrepancies in fleet ownership and operation data.
Strengthen legal frameworks by enforcing existing laws and introducing new legislation to combat IUU fishing practices, including penalising companies involved in such activities.
Engage in international cooperation with neighbouring countries and international organisations to address cross-border fishing issues and promote regional fisheries management.
Address social, economic and environmental conflicts generated by industrial fishing operations by engaging with local communities and finding mutually beneficial solutions that respect cultural heritage sites and minimise environmental impacts.
Invest in research and development into alternative fishing methods and gear that minimise bycatch and environmental damage.