The ocean is vital to the livelihoods of coastal communities in Suriname, French Guiana, and Guyana, providing food, employment, and cultural significance. However, Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing practices threaten these resources by leading to overfishing and bycatch of endangered species, including sea turtles.  This not only disrupts marine ecosystems but also undermines the sustainability of fisheries that many depend upon.

WWF's Approach to Sustainable Fisheries

We believe that safeguarding our marine resources requires a collaborative and forward-thinking approach—one that balances the needs of people and nature. To tackle IUU fishing and promote more responsible fishing practices, we focus on:

• Strengthening Monitoring and Enforcement: We support the use of vessel monitoring systems (VMS) and help build the capacity of government agencies to effectively oversee fishing activities.

• Reducing Bycatch: We advocate for and support the enforcement of Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs) and other selective fishing gear to minimize the accidental capture of non-target species.

• Encouraging Responsible Practices: We promote responsible fishing methods, including progress toward Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certification, to ensure fisheries remain viable for the long term.

• Fostering Regional Collaboration: We facilitate cross-border cooperation among the Guianas to align policies, share data, and develop joint strategies to combat IUU fishing.

By taking this comprehensive approach, we aim to protect marine biodiversity, support coastal livelihoods, and ensure a healthy ocean for generations to come.

What We Are Doing