How can we make Marine Protection fair? Just Transitions and the Equitable Use of Our Seas

What is a 'Just Transition'? It's a term that gets banded about a lot when talking about protecting areas of the ocean from certain types of destructive fishing. In fact, one of the demands of the Our Seas coalition, who we heard from in last week's episode, is 'The return of a modern seaward limit on bottom-towed fishing, via a just transition'.

Although the science shows that protecting our ocean, in particular fragile habitats, from overexploitation is essential for the recovery of fish stocks, and by extension to support local fishing fleets, there may well be people who fish in those areas currently who are displaced. How can transitioning to a better future for our seas be done in a way that is fair, who has the right to have a say, and what does the 'equitable use of our seas' actually mean.

We're delighted to be joined by Blue Marine Foundation's Joe Richards, to guide us through this nuanced subject with empathy and insight.

You can learn more about the Our Seas coalition, and sign the petition, here:

Our Seas need your help - ask your politician to protect at least 30%

Huge thanks to Highlands and Islands Environment Foundation for supporting this series.

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