Research reveals impact of pollution on Durban fishing
Findings of a social study on fishing in Durban were presented at a meeting in Durban.
THE South Durban Community Environmental Alliance (SDCEA) together with the KZN Subsistence Fisher Folk Forum launched its Food Security and Sustainable Livelihoods in the Context of Climate Change project consisting of a social study on fishing in Durban.
The report titled Let them eat fish, was compiled by Vanessa Burger. Research included identifying environmental and socio-economic factors and perceptions affecting sustainable fishing practices at key fishing areas, making sector recommendations and develop partnerships, improving communities’ understanding of the impact of climate change on livelihoods and encouraging more sustainable fishing practices and increasing the involvement of poor fishing communities in decision-making processes and self-determination.
The study included raw data gathered from fishermen at eight key focus areas from Isipingo Beach in the south, to the Ohlanga Lagoon in the north, as well as input from marine scientists, law enforcement and coastal management specialists. Facilities were assessed, fishing practices observed and anecdotal records analysed.
Conclusions reached will inform SDCEA’s and the KZN Subsistence Fishermen Forum’s future strategy in promoting food security within the subsistence fishing sector and safeguarding the rights of marginalised, poor communities who are reliant on fishing for their survival.
Vanessa Burger presented on her study and said: “Among the many disturbing findings of this study were the impact of pollution on some of the most heavily utilised fishing grounds in Durban and its associated health risks. Fish stocks were found to be severely depleted, while some species such as mackerel and Garrick appear to have become locally extinct.”
She said it was essential that regular, comprehensive water quality tests were carried out across the study area and the results made known to the public, for the health and safety of the marine environment and all those who utilise it.
“The impact of climate change would already appear to be having an impact on fish movements and numbers and anecdotal evidence which emerged during the course of this study may be important in determining future fishing seasons and other regulations,” said Burger.
She said poverty plays a significant role as the socio-economic position of the average poor fisherman leaves many with little choice. Findings revealed some households of up to four people currently exist on an average income of R2500 per month of which nearly three-quarters is derived from fishing.
“The importance of this resource, particularly as unemployment continues to escalate, cannot be over-emphasised. Poor policy and legislation also play a crucial role as the study’s conclusions indicate that historical marginalisation, misperception and class conflict between fishing sectors, marine researchers and law enforcement has discouraged sustainable fishing practices,” she said.
