Role of fisheries and ecosystem-based management: Shiretoko, Japan

Shiretoko, Japan's northeastern Hokkaido peninsula and surrounding marine areas, exemplifies successful integration of fisheries management with ecosystem conservation. The 'Shiretoko Approach' demonstrates how local fishing communities, through autonomous measures under a co-management framework, contribute significantly to sustainable fisheries without being excluded post-World Heritage inscription. This approach expanded fisheries co-management into ecosystem-based management (EBM), ensuring the preservation of Shiretoko's unique terrestrial and marine ecosystems, including endangered species. The region's rich biodiversity stems from complex oceanographic currents, including cold and warm water interactions that support seasonal sea ice. By placing local practices at the core of conservation efforts, this model offers a blueprint for balancing human activities with ecological sustainability in protected areas.

Miyazawa, Y., & Makino, M. (2012). Role of fisheries and ecosystem-based management: Shiretoko, Japan. World Heritage, 253–263. https://doi.org/10.1017/cbo9781139567657.027