forbes.com
Mixed Results: Indonesian Pelagic Thresher Shark Conservation Program
In Indonesia's Alor Archipelago, a conservation program between 2018 and 2023 provided fishers with alternative livelihoods (e.g., chicken farming, tuna fishing) to reduce pelagic thresher shark fishing; while six of nine fishers saw income increases over 500%, others saw decreases, highlighting the need for ongoing support and addressing socio-economic factors.
- What are the immediate impacts of the conservation program in the Alor Archipelago on pelagic thresher shark populations and fisher incomes?
- Pelagic thresher shark populations, declining by up to 79% in the last three generations, have seen an 83% decrease in Indonesia since 2002. A conservation program in Alor Archipelago yielded mixed results: six of nine participating fishers saw significant income increases (over 500% in some cases) from alternative livelihoods, while others experienced income decreases due to personal challenges.
- How did the Indonesian government's regulatory changes and community engagement contribute to the success (or failure) of the conservation efforts?
- The Indonesian government's 2020 decree and 2022 action plan for thresher shark conservation, coupled with community-driven initiatives like training 36 conservation champions, contributed to a noticeable decrease in thresher shark catches by program participants. However, socio-cultural pressures and economic needs led to some continued illegal fishing.
- What are the long-term challenges and necessary conditions for replicating the success of this alternative livelihoods approach in other regions facing similar conservation issues?
- The success of the Alor Archipelago project highlights the need for context-specific conservation strategies integrating community input, economic diversification, and supportive governance. While the program demonstrated potential, long-term sustainability requires ongoing support, addressing social conflicts, and ensuring reliable alternative income sources to counteract economic pressures driving unsustainable fishing practices.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article presents a balanced view of the conservation efforts, highlighting both successes and challenges. While the positive aspects of the alternative livelihoods program are emphasized, the article also acknowledges the persistent challenges and the need for ongoing support.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral and objective. Terms like "substantial increases" and "mixed but largely positive" are descriptive without being overly emotive. However, phrases like "plummeted" could be replaced with less dramatic alternatives, such as "significantly decreased.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses primarily on the success and challenges of the alternative livelihoods program in Indonesia, but it could benefit from including data on the global population of pelagic thresher sharks and the effectiveness of conservation efforts in other regions. Additionally, a more in-depth analysis of the socio-cultural pressures influencing continued shark fishing could strengthen the article.
Gender Bias
The article mentions the success of a women's group in producing marketable goods, showcasing their contributions to the conservation effort. However, more detailed information on gender representation in fishing communities and the program's impact on women and men would enhance the analysis.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights a conservation project in Indonesia aimed at reducing the decline of pelagic thresher sharks, an endangered species. The project successfully integrated alternative livelihoods for local fishers, resulting in reduced fishing pressure on sharks and increased income for some participants. The intervention also involved community engagement, policy changes, and the creation of a marine protected area, contributing to a more comprehensive conservation framework. While challenges remain, the project demonstrates a promising approach to balancing conservation with the economic needs of local communities.