"We see very clearly the end of the line. It shows that we're going to run out of viable fisheries, out of all seafood species by the year 2050; so within our lifetimes, certainly within the lifetimes of our children" (Qtd. ScienCentral, 2006).
"It's time for leadership on global fisheries issues. It's time to act," says Dr. Pauly, Director of the Fisheries Centre at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, Canada. "We don't need more science. This is a message that's different from many of my colleagues. Of course we need to learn more about fish. But research is often publicly funded on the grounds that this is an alternative to other political action. We know enough to act to prevent the continued decimation of global fisheries" (Qtd. Hooked on Fishing).
The Problem and the Answer
Problem statement
The use of over-efficient fishing technology, the lack of sufficient scientific
data regarding the oceans, the ignorance and apathy of humanity towards this
oceanic crisis, and insufficient implementation of existing maritime agreements
are resulting in a decrease in the biodiversity of the ocean, changes to ocean
chemistry, changes in the genetic composition of marine species, disturbances
to the food web and ecosystem, collapse of fish stocks, and irreparable damage
to marine ecosystems and to the fishing industry (including all people
dependent on fish for sustenance, income, and cultural value).
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Implementation
We will achieve this solution through the implementation of an eclectic and
socially sensitive educational campaign, international diplomatic measures, and
the promotion of healthy ecosystems through sustainable fishing as defined and
achieved by several implementation areas (i.e. aquaculture, technology
restrictions, etc.).
Our Vision
We are scientists developing the best possible solution to save global fish
populations and marine ecosystems from collapse and provide sustainable global
fishing. We must speak for the fish and the solution above all else: while our
solution focuses on saving the oceans, it will be debated, altered, and
implemented by political figures with the needs of humanity as a priority.
Thus, a solution that is ocean centered will be implemented to balance the
needs of both oceans and humans. However, it is important to keep in mind that
while we place our focus on fish, preserving fish populations and ecosystems
will ultimately benefit humanity the most and is therefore universally
desirable.
Brief solution outline: (feel free to edit- for main page)
As members of Mission 2011, we plan to preserve global fisheries by ending overfishing, preserving marine ecosystems, and developing alternative measures to meet nutritional needs. In order to achieve these goals we will need to implement a multifaceted solution including improved management schemes, better technology, and a global education campaign.
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