Fighting Illegal Fishing with Big Data Technology
Uncovering Hidden Activities on the High Seas
Illegal fishing is a major problem that threatens the health of our oceans and undermines the livelihoods of honest fishermen. To combat this issue, Global Fishing Watch is harnessing the power of big data and satellite technology to shed light on suspicious ship activity on the high seas.
Using Satellites to Monitor Suspicious Activity
Global Fishing Watch collects and analyzes billions of satellite signals broadcast by ships. These signals provide valuable information about ship movements, speeds, and locations. By using artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms, Global Fishing Watch can identify patterns and anomalies that may indicate illegal fishing activities.
Tracking Transshipments: A Major Avenue for Illegal Fish
One of the key targets of Global Fishing Watch’s monitoring efforts is transshipment, the practice of transferring fish from one vessel to another at sea. Transshipment can be used to launder illegally caught fish into the legal supply chain, making it difficult to track and prevent such activities.
Global Fishing Watch’s analysis of satellite data has identified over 90,000 potential transshipment encounters in international waters, far beyond the reach of any single country’s jurisdiction. These encounters involve refrigerated cargo vessels (known as reefers) and fishing vessels operating in close proximity or rendezvousing in suspicious patterns.
Uncovering the Use of “Flags of Convenience”
Another tactic used by illegal fishing operators is the use of “flags of convenience.” These vessels are registered in countries with lax regulations, allowing them to evade stricter controls and accountability measures in their home countries.
Global Fishing Watch’s data reveals that nearly half of the reefers tracked were flying flags of convenience, indicating that the true ownership and origin of these vessels may be obscured. This makes it more challenging to enforce regulations and hold accountable those responsible for illegal fishing.
Empowering Stakeholders to Take Action
Global Fishing Watch’s data is freely available to third parties, including regional fishery management organizations, researchers, and even ordinary citizens. By providing access to this information, Global Fishing Watch empowers others to take action against illegal fishing and improve the transparency and accountability of the seafood supply chain.
Reducing the Sale and Consumption of Illegally Caught Fish
The ultimate goal of Global Fishing Watch’s efforts is to reduce the sale and consumption of illegally caught fish. By shining a light on hidden activities on the high seas, Global Fishing Watch aims to make it more difficult for illegal operators to profit from their activities.
Improving Accountability and Sustainability
Global Fishing Watch’s data is helping to improve accountability in the seafood industry. By tracking transshipments and identifying vessels using flags of convenience, Global Fishing Watch is providing valuable information to regulators and enforcement agencies.
This information can be used to hold accountable those responsible for illegal fishing, deter future offenses, and promote more sustainable fishing practices.
Conclusion:
Global Fishing Watch’s innovative use of big data and satellite technology is transforming the fight against illegal fishing. By providing transparency and accountability to the high seas, Global Fishing Watch is empowering stakeholders to take action and protect the health of our oceans for future generations.
